The Book of Tea by Kakuzo Okakura
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Book Reviews of The Book of Tea
Book Review: An extremely affordable edition of a true Asian classic
Summary: 5 Stars
Anyone interested in a deeper understanding of Asian culture, especially as it pertains to Zen and Taoist teachings, should check out this classic work. Written in a light, readable style and charged with subtle humor, this work gives a unique insight into Asian thought, culture, and values by tracing the history of tea. A simple beverage creating a simple pleasure, yet holding enough signifigance to be the focal point of religious ritual.Book Review: Read and listen.....
Summary: 5 Stars
This a great compact book that deals beautifully with tea and its history and setting. You'll feel as though you are listening to Kakuzo Okakura personally. As I read it, I could feel the presence of a smile on his face.
Not deep. Not complex. Compact and enjoyable. A great intro to tea all around.
Book Review: A Life Bible
Summary: 5 Stars
This little book, with its elegant evocative language has all the elements of the poetry of life. Everyone should have a copy to enjoy. With the older book, in its sliding box cover, the atmosphere is set in an aesthetic manner as befits the theme, but it is the contents that matters.Book Review: Very enjoyable reading!
Summary: 5 Stars
This is probably the neatest book I've ever read. It is an interesting introduction to how tea is much more than just a casual beverage. Tea is a cultural element of both CHinese & Japanese life.Book Review: Tea Culture
Summary: 4 Stars
At its best this book provides an interesting look at tea. On the downside, Okakura Kakuzo, gets several of his facts wrong by not proofreading. All the facts are corrected in a brilliant afterward by E. F. Bleiler. Also, Okakura, has several comparisons to the West and how Japan is different. This is to show his Japanese uniqueness and it borders on nihonjinron.
However, Okakura does make a clear connection between the consumption of tea and aesthetics. He explains the background of the tea ceremony and the Zen influence. It is interesting of how he first talks about Taoism and its relationship to Zen, which I knew about but haven't really read anything on it.
I like the chapter on the Tea House. It explains a lot of how the Japanese view the tea house experience. It starts with certain objects placed inside the tea house such as flowers and maybe one painting or poem. It is this simple refined use of space that the interior of the tea house is to be best appreciated and enjoyed. He also shows how the tea house is a way to experience Zen. From the walk down the path, to the washing of utensils, to putting it all together and consuming tea this reflects how a Zen monk will break from the world, as he enters the tea house, and begins meditation.
If you have any interest in Japanese culture or just like a good hot cup of tea, this can be an entertaining book.