While this book may obviously be of more interest to the practicioners of Shotokan Karate,
Chung Do Kwan Tae Kwon Do, and other other related styles, the book still provides insight
into one of the greatest and truest budo masters, and such a glimpse is of value to any
martial artist.
For example, we gain insight into his rationale of the budo when he relates the story
of how a group of young men coerce him into a wreslting match, which he wins. Later, we gain
insight into his mind as he assesses the self defense situation that arises from his
victory. Even after defending himself without inflicting serious harm to his attackers, he
feels the fault lies in him for allowing pride to let him enter the contest to begin with.
The book is small and the writing style fairly simple and easy to read on account of
its storytelling theme, but there is a wealth of information on a variety of subjects
to be found among the narratives: first hand accounts of major historical events in
the development of Karate (such as demonstrations for the crown prince and at the
Kodokan, the start of Shotokan, etc.); descriptions of the early training and feats of
not only Funakoshi but also his predecessors (Azato, Itosu, and Matsumura); insights
into the master'’s personal life (such as his relationshi pwith his wife and his
sacrifices for the sake of Karate-do); and most importantly an authoritative
description of the philosophy of Karate-do, both in training and in life.
Students of Funakoshi’s lineage may also find pleasure in running acrossjewels in terminology
and concepts that are covered in class, giving them the sensation of researching and
discovering a more original source.
Karate-Do: My Way of Life a quick, enjoyable read that offers a lot of different
things, even if most them are not covered in great detail. Regardless of what style
you practice, if you are serious about self-cultivation through the martial arts, this
book may give you guidance by letting you inside one of the great ones.
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