Japanese Swordsmanship: Technique And Practice
by Donn F. Draeger

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Book Reviews of Japanese Swordsmanship: Technique And Practice

Book Review: Japanese Swordsmanship - More Technique than Practice
Summary: 5 Stars

Warner's Japanese Swordsmanship deals with the history, etiquette, and use of the japanese sword. It explains how the art evolved over the decades into what it is today, and why people still practice this ancient and deadly martial discipline.

The first two-thirds of the book are filled with historic information, modern use of the art, and etiquette. All of this is very interesting, especially since many of these traditions are hundreds of years old and still practiced today. Each movement or change in position (in all of the sections ranging from etiquette to the actual practice) is meticulously detailed by high-quality black and white photographs taken from multiple angles of an experienced practitioner. The book also anticipates problem areas and attempts to correct these by showing diagrams of the WRONG way to do things, and then emphasizing the CORRECT way. Typically, mistakes made early in training can become problems later on, but each and every section also brings to light important points that the beginning student should focus on. Breath control, posture, and thought process are all important aspects that are easily overlooked when the beginning student begins his training, but the book stresses that TECHNIQUE often precedes PRACTICE.

Another interesting aspect of the book is its discussion of each form. It explains the situations from historical, practical, and modern viewpoints. Whereas in feudal Japan, a samurai looked upon each day of practice as one that is essential to his continued survival, the modern martial artist no longer lives in such a world and can concentrate on the more meditative and fulfilling aspects of practice. The book also describes how each form could be used in actual practical application (although it's not often that people are seen walking down the street in full samurai dress with a katana tucked into their belt).

In general, Warner has done a splendid job of being very detailed and specific, and I've found myself referring back to his book many times, either for clarification purposes or pure reading enjoyment. Although a bit short on forms (try Niklaus Suino's The Art of Japanese Swordsmanship for more advanced forms), the book excels at bringing newcomers into the field with rich, detailed explanations and a wealth of pictoral guides. I'd recommend this book to any martial artist looking to expand his collection or be introduced into the tradition-rich and engrossing world of japanese swordsmanship.

Summary of Japanese Swordsmanship: Technique And Practice

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