Old School: Essays on Japanese Martial Traditions
by Ellis Amdur
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Book Summary Information
Author: Ellis AmdurEdition: Paperback
Audio: English (Published)
Published: 2002-08-01
ISBN: 1897307853
Number of pages: 275
Publisher: Edgework (RSP)
Book Reviews of Old School: Essays on Japanese Martial Traditions
Book Review: With Admur's Usual Humor
Summary: 5 Stars
I am an admitted fan of Ellis Amdur's writing, so it comes as no surprise I enjoyed this book as well. However, the reasons for that enjoyment are worth mentioning. Amdur writes as both an insider and an outsider to the koryu, the classical martial arts of Japan. Well versed himself in the martial arts, Amdur is a licensed instructor in two classical arts as well as the modern art of aikido, he brings a critical eye to the subject.
In this book, Amdur is clear that his own study colors his judgment of other styles. He is also up front when he writes as an outsider to a tradition, and warns against easy assumptions about esoteric traditions by non-practitioners, even if there are similarities between styles.
At the same time, he allows insight into arts not commonly seen in the west, and does a little mythbusting about commonly held ideas. This is not a "how to" book. It does however offer an uncommon glimpse into weapons and traditions, both living and extinct, from someone who has stepped onto the dojo floor with and into the living room of those that practice these arts.
Summary of Old School: Essays on Japanese Martial Traditions
Ellis Amdur's much anticipated new book on the koryu is well worth the wait. In this privately published volume, Amdur collects a number of essays originally published in the Journal of Asian Martial Arts and Furyu, and adds a few new pieces (most notably "Keppan: Blood Vows in Japanese Martial Traditions"). Old School is a perfect companion both to Amdur's first book, Dueling with O-sensei, and our own "Classical Warrior Traditions of Japan" series. All the essays have been carefully revised and are illustrated with plentiful photographs and illustrations (masterfully drawn by Eric Johnson). As usual, Amdur challenges us with his insights in this must-read collection on the Japanese martial traditions.Japan Books
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