The Complete Five Rings

The authoritative version of Musashi's classic The Book of Five Rings, The Complete Book of Five Rings, has been translated and annotated by modern martial arts master Kenji Tokitsu. Having dedicated most of his life to researching the legendary samurai swordsman and his works, Tokitsu sheds new light on this seminal text in his book, along with several other works by Musashi. These include "The Mirror of the Way of Strategy", written by Musashi in his 20s; "Thirty-five Instructions on Strategy" and "Forty-two Instructions on Strategy", which were precursors to The Book of Five Rings; and "The Way to Be Followed Alone", written just before Musashi's death. Together, these five texts provide a detailed and nuanced view of Musashi's ideas on swordsmanship, strategy, and self-cultivation.

In The Complete Book of Five Rings, Tokitsu situates these writings within their historical and philosophical context, making them accessible and relevant to today's martial arts students and enthusiasts. His deep understanding of Musashi's writings and the man himself allows him to provide a rare insight into Musashi's historical contribution as a martial artist.

The book is a valuable resource for those interested in delving into the mind of one of history's greatest swordsmen, offering a comprehensive and detailed exploration of Musashi's thoughts and teachings. With Tokitsu's expertise, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the principles and strategies that underpin Musashi's philosophy.

Overall, The Complete Book of Five Rings serves as an indispensable guide for those seeking to learn from the wisdom of Musashi, offering a contemporary perspective on the timeless lessons of this legendary figure in martial arts history.

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