Author Peyton Quinn is often credited with creating and/or popularizing
some ground-breaking self-defense training. Unfortunately, this book should
not be considered among his finest work, though it does serve as a decent
introduction to or affirmation of the self-defense mindset and the differences
between martial arts and self defense. Since a proper frame of mind is
the most important aspect of effective self-defense (a point routinely
made in the book), this book can be valuable to those who are new to this
line of thought. Even if you are more familiar with the subject, it couldn't
hurt to use the book as good review and confirmation of such principles
and concepts.
For a relatively short book, it touches on a variety of topics, some
more pertinent to self-defense than others. Chapter one is entitled "Perfect
intent is more important than perfect technique," and naturally deals
with having the appropriate mindset for self defense. The chapter title,
while a potent statement in itself, is a bit of a misnomer. Other subjects
in this part are issues of fear (both in yourself and the inherent cowardice
of the bully) and a discussion of the interview techniques used by assailants
to determine who to attack. The second chapter is more focused on specific
techniques and tactics, but it must be understood that this is not a how-to
book. It is much more a book of theory that can be implemented in one's
own training regimen. The reader is left to devise the specifics themselves,
because very little detail is given as to how to set up the drills, parameters,
etc. For the most part, it simply helps the reader define the issues.
Subsequent chapters deal with the proper training method, the importance
of "scenario based training," effects of adrenaline, and the inherent
artificiality of some martial arts training. The last chapter deals with
firearms and isn't very worthwhile for people interested in empty-hand
application, except to further illustrate the same or similar points.
The teaching of the book is very consistent with the GMA self-defense
curriculum. Many issues that are mentioned sometimes only in passing are
very worthwhile but not groundbreaking, so the reader may find him/herself
nodding a lot in agreement. This is nevertheless good reinforcement, keeping
the subject fresh in their mind. The material should be internalized,
even though the book does not provide a step by step program on how to
practice and reinforce it. As the book states, "this thought may one day
provide you with the content necessary to appreciate a big part of why
you prevail in some future confrontation."
The greatest hindrance to the book is probably the writing itself. It
is written in a simple, first person style. This makes for a quick, easy
read, but the matter of fact speaking tone seems unprofessional and at
times degrades into over the top macho-ness. While it allows Quinn's personality
as a straight talker to come through, it also allows him to ramble a bit,
throwing in unnecessary asides about people and examples and leading the
reader down several tangential subjects. While making the very valid point
that self-defense skill is not "fine motor skill" and one doesn't have
to "master" complicated techniques, he throws in his opinion of what a
true martial arts master is like. He likewise discusses the Gracies, no
holds barred fighting, and the Dog brothers, all in too much detail for
any point that was being made. Another annoyance is that the author frequently
makes references to his other book. He usually goes on to reiterate the
material anyway, but it leaves the reader wondering if he/she is missing
anything, and if the material is so important to this book, then why not
include it in its entirety in the present work.
The author does make some good points and observations, and his ideas
appear to make sense, but by relying solely on experience, he supports
his theory with examples only, as opposed to concrete data or psychological
theory. This takes away some legitimacy from the book and makes it hard
to distinguish what parts are more opinion and what parts are more concrete
principles. Still, the material covered is solid, and as stated before,
consistent with GMA's self-defense curriculum. The other serious criticism
of the book is what is not covered. Legalities are only nominally mentioned,
and the book appears not to be too concerned with such issues. The psychological
costs of violence, even when defending oneself, is not discussed, despite
the powerful modeling and conditioning advocated in the book.
Serious self defense training is not synonymous with martial arts training.
As the book puts is very poignantly, "Teaching self defense by the traditional
Asian method for most people is like teaching someone how to swim without
ever putting them in the water." This book does a decent job of familiarizing
the reader with many such disparities and the realities of self defense.
The work is certainly progressive, but not as enlightening as others such
as On Killing (see martial cultures reviews). Most of Peyton Quinn's material
in the book has also been disseminated elsewhere, such as in magazine
articles, so some readers more familiar with his work, hoping to get more
insight, may be a bit disappointed to find there is not much else there.
Still, it is good reinforcement of these crucial concepts, and a good
introduction to those who are not as familiar.
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