An intriguing and thoughtful series of essays on Chinese Martial Arts (Kung Fu) by one of the world's top writers on the subject. Major topics include Tai Chi, Shaolin, Ba Gua, fighting principles, Chinese culture, and what it means to pursue "true kung fu". Profusely illustrated and beautifully written.
Spotlight customer reviews:
Customer Rating: Summary: Good Overview of Adam Hsu-- Not Much Depth Comment: This is what it's advertised-- a collection of previous articles done by Adam Hsu. It covers the gamut of his martial arts tradition, including his lineage, his quest for the origins of some of the more unusual styles he has trained in (e.g. "Thunder"-style Chen Tai Chi), and a log of his various trips to China in search of said origins. Some nice anecdotes here, interesting historical references, and good stories. But his claim with respect to these-- that he hopes it will help others planning trips to China for similar purposes-- seems far-fetched. I doubt that high-ranking officials from the national wu shu academy and its equivalents would come greet me at the airport and bend over backwards to take me to obscure locations at a whim.
Master Hsu also covers some training methods, and training insights into the various forms he studies, particularly Ba Gua, Chang Quan, and Baji Quan-- and given the rarity of such training articles in these particular arts, these are quite valuable and to be savored. However, again, the article format left me feeling that depth was lacking. More exploration was expected out of a "book".
There were more than a few articles that could have been reduced to one paragraph, rather than 3-4 pages, as well. I get it-- magazine articles, but still...
Some of the article on basic training and really discerning authentic kung fu I think would be extremely useful for the beginner, or for the person seeking out a school/teacher who has no kung fu background (and I distinctly mean kung fu-- it's a different animal from the arts from other cultures). I appreciate Master Hsu's efforts to systematize his training regimen to make it more uniform and understandable for his students. It certainly makes me want to visit his school, if only to watch. But again, there is no in-depth, really. Generalities and some examples.
Sifu Hsu goes in-depth on basic stances and some basic postures, and explains his reasons why. Invaluable, since fundamentals are really the key, but again, there was little on other structural/alignment issues beyond this.
In summary, a nice overview of Adam Hsu, an admirable man, and his perspective on kung fu. But this does not plumb the depths of his knowledge or experience, merely gives one a shallow overview of what must be a much deeper man. Customer Rating: Summary: Another must have! Comment: It's very rare to find decent books on the Chinese martial arts. Here, however, is a really great book on traditional wushu (kung fu).
This is not a how-to book, though you will find ideas for your own practice if you look and consider. As the other reviewers mention, this is a collection of essays on traditional Chinese martial arts. These essays range from short, topical op-ed pieces to full length articles and historical travelogues. There are general reflections on martial arts training, as well as three sections devoted specifically to articles on the styles of Long Fist, Taiji Quan (Tai Chi), and Bagua Zhang. Other styles such as Baji Quan, Pigua Zhang and Praying Mantis are represented too, however!
For me, the real gems of this collection of essays are the chapters in which Mr. Hsu talks about his research trips in mainland China. His mission to search for the roots of his Taiji Quan reads almost like an historical thriller, and the reader can't wait to find out 'who done it'.
The articles in this collection will give any practitioner or enthusiast of Chinese martial arts much to think about -- whether or not you agree. That is already quite an accomplishment. Beyond that, this edition by Plum Publications is one of the nicest volumes on martial arts that I own. The layout, the clarity of photographs, and the quality of paper and cover are all first rate. In short, I can only hope to read more from Mr. Hsu, while hoping that Plum publishes it. Customer Rating: Summary: Excellent read Comment: Adam Hsu is a well known Chinese martial arts Master. He is "old school", concerned about how martial arts are a cultural treasure under attack in the modern world. He writes to illuminate, to provoke, to remind us of essentials of martial arts.
This book is a collection of essays, many of which have been published before. But, just like The Sword Polisher's Record, his other book, his collected thoughts reveal a consistent approach to the practice, teaching and thinking about martial arts. Gathered together the essays build and reinforce each other. For me he is an author that requires a reader to stop and really reflect on this points. Besides general essays on martial arts he also has specific ones on taiji and bagua. Also, Plum publishing did an excellent job with the book.
For serious martial artists and those interested in martial arts as cultural treasures, this is a must buy. Customer Rating: Summary: Lone Sword Against a Cold Cold Sky Comment: Here is a book of essays by one of the most famous Kung Fu teachers.
I had read many of these articles before but this is the first time they've been collected in one place. This is nothing like most Kung Fu books which are instruction manuals like step here and do this. Adam Hsu
goes into what it means to really care about Kung Fu and practice it.
Sometimes what he says is daunting but most of the time his really
great sense of humor and high intelligence makes the whole story
fascinating. Even if you don't agree with him, there's someone
thinking here. Also beautifully written. The kind of thing you'll
return to over and over.
