Ancient Wisdom I: The Spiritual Tale of the Scholar Chu Shui Hu

by PZ Bar

Book Overview

Through the mythical tale of the young scholar Chu Shui Hu, and more than 60 lyrical calligraphic paintings, "Ancient Wisdom I" is a book for all who yearn for deeper understanding. Hu's patron, Lord... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1931868247
• ISBN13: 9781931868242
• Release Date: September 2002
• Publisher: Capital Books (VA)
• Length: 114 Pages
• Weight: 0.47 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.4" x 6.0" x 8.8"

Customer Reviews

Asian Spirits

This book should have been available during the U.S.-Chinese spy plane incident. Anyone who reads it will come away with a better understanding of what makes China tick. The introduction by Ms. Liu is very helpful, and the text makes clear just how important words are to this ancient culture. Our Western vocabulary is solid as a rock by comparison with China's "pictograms," or "characters," which are a combination of abstractions. When we "apologized" for our spy plane and the loss of a Chinese pilot, it was seen by Americans as an expedient. But to the Chinese the concept of "apology" has many levels of meaning, one of which includes a complex view of justice. "Ancient Wisdom" distills words as spirits and calligraphy as the noblest form communication. Best of all, the book is fun to read, and the art is presented as a story within a story--a double treat. I'd recommend it for Sinophiles and ordinary readers curious to know more about the psyche of world's most populous nation.

Chinese Wisdom for Everyone

This novella about an arrogant scholar who struggles to learn "the most important secret of Chinese life" gives instant insight to China's great traditions. The story, set in the Tang Dynasty and highlighted by the hero's whimsical calligraphic art, reminds the reader of Harry Potter's simplicity and ongoing action. Sent by his patron to live a monkish life in the magic mountains of Zhongnan Shan, the young hero, Chu Shui Hu, cavorts with ancient spirits who confront him with the mysteries of his own soul. His spiritual adventures are also lightened by humor. He dreams of an impossible love affair with the magical fisherwoman, Magu, only to learn that while it is a good thing to catch a fish, it is undignified to act like one. The story and the displays of calligraphy which the hero struggles to create add up to "Ancient Wisdom" for everyone.

A beautiful Journey

I really loved reading this lovely story and enjoyed the calligraphy. To get into the Chinese mind is more and more important every day. Not everyone will get the idea of this book, but most people will. And with the Olympics being in China, we need to try to understand our global neighbors.I have read the story twice now and liked it even more the second time.

Great Mix of Art and Philosophy

This is a wonderful book for anyone who loves the art of Chinese calligraphy and the roots of Asian philosophy. The abstract "caoshu" style of calligraphy is seldom seen outside of museum tours or Chinese language texts, but it is blended here along with an engaging Tang Dynasty tale in English. Clearly Zbar has a love of Asian art and history. The tale of Chu Shui Hu, which accompanies the art, is an easy-to-read coming-of-age saga. Hu, the "Little Frog," provides clever takes on human nature in context of the world's oldest civilization.

Western Eye Meets Eastern Jewel

As one who has grown up in the Chinese tradition, I was amazed to find a Western mind so sensitive to my world. Ancient Wisdom is a rare gem from an author/calligrapher who has captured the essentials of my culture and has created an elegant calligraphy in the spirit of the the Chinese "character." The ancient forms, seen through a Western eye, mark a pathway to mutual understanding so important in today's "global village." An outstanding achievement!