[ExI] book

[William Flynn Wallace]

The Importance of Living- LinYutang - copyright 1937 subtitle "The classic
bestseller that introduced millions to the noble art of leaving things
undone."

It starts off with comparisons of LaoTse and Confucius and other Chinese
philosophers and poets, which is very good.

But most of the book is about the enjoyment of poetry, trees, windows,
rocks, flowers and many other things.  He often compares Chinese culture to
American (he attended Harvard but had to leave because of money.)

Many of his opinions are just hilarious though unintended.

"conditions that please the flowers"

a clear window; antique tripods; visiting monk understands tea; a native of
chichow arrives with wine;  kettle sings deep at night" and so on.

Conditions humiliating to the flowers: "owner constantly seeing guests; a
stupid servant putting in extra branches, upsetting the arrangement; common
monks talking zen; dogs fighting before the window; ugly women plucking
flowers and decorating their hair with them; servants lying about; wine
runs out after one."

Never out of print.  Apparently written in English and excellently done.
Amazing book- entertaining and enlightening.    Strangest book I know. bill
w
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