The Way of Zen

by Alan Watts
The Way of Zen cover
Good Books rating 3.5
Religion and Theology
Technical
  • ID: 1697
  • Added: 2025-10-08
  • Updated: 2025-10-08
  • ISBN: 9780307784346
  • Publisher: Vintage
  • Published: 2011-02-16
  • Reviews: 3

In 'The Way of Zen,' Alan Watts provides a comprehensive and accessible introduction to Zen Buddhism, delving into its origins, history, and philosophical underpinnings. With his characteristic clarity and depth, Watts explains the core principles of Zen, making it understandable for both newcomers and those familiar with the subject. He emphasizes Zen's role as a gift from Asia to the world, highlighting its timeless wisdom and universal appeal. Watts' writing is both engaging and enlightening, offering readers a pathway to understanding the essence of Zen. He explores how Zen's teachings can be applied to contemporary life, making the book not just an educational resource but also a guide for personal growth. Through his lucid explanations and profound insights, Watts captures the spirit of Zen, inviting readers to embrace its transformative power.

Reviews
Electrical Spirituality · 2025-10-08
excellent 4.50

The book was praised for its concise and lucid prose, offering a clear perspective on Zen and life. The reviewer appreciated Watts' unique insights and found the read to be highly enjoyable.

The reviewer had a very positive experience with 'The Way of Zen'. They found the prose to be concise and lucid, making it an easy and enjoyable read. The reviewer particularly appreciated Watts' unique perspectives on Zen and life, which they found both insightful and refreshing. This book is seen as a great introduction to Zen, with a balance of depth and readability that makes it accessible to a wide audience.

Quick quotes

    Second, it was a felicitous read—concise, lucid prose seasoned with Watts' anti-Procrustean perspectives on Zen and life.

    Moreover, he does so in unsurpassed style.

    Watts' prose is exceedingly attractive and readable.

Nat Eliason · Nat Eliason · 2020-02-07
insightful 4.00

The reviewer found the book to be a liberating read, emphasizing the importance of living in the present moment. They appreciated the practical insights and found the book to be a valuable introduction to Zen.

Nat Eliason found 'The Way of Zen' to be a liberating read, highlighting its emphasis on living in the present moment. They appreciated the practical insights provided by Watts, which they found to be both profound and accessible. The reviewer saw the book as a valuable introduction to Zen, offering a fresh perspective on how to approach life with mindfulness and awareness. Overall, they found the book to be a transformative experience.

Quick quotes

    Zen is a liberation from time.

    If we open our eyes and see clearly, it becomes obvious that there is no other time than this instant.

    This book is a great introduction to Zen and its principles.

Captain Fez · Captain Fez · 2019-12-27
disappointing 2.00

The reviewer found the book to be a challenging read, questioning the author's ability to explain Zen effectively. They felt the text was more suitable for entertainment rather than deep understanding.

The reviewer had a mixed experience with 'The Way of Zen'. They felt that the book struggled to convey the essence of Zen, finding the explanations more entertaining than enlightening. The reviewer appreciated the historical context but felt it lacked the depth needed for a true understanding of Zen. Overall, they found the book to be more of a light read rather than a profound exploration of the subject.

Quick quotes

    Yeah nah.

    This book is not a good introduction to Zen.

    Watts' explanations often feel more like entertainment than enlightenment.

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