The Complete Writings

TheZhuangzi— an anthology of anonymous writings produced in China between the fourth and second centuries BC — is one of the worlds great literary treasures and the single most important source for early Daoist philosophy. It has exerted a profound influence on Chinese thought, literature, and culture, inspiring philosophy, poetry, idioms, proverbs, and even visual art.

This volume provides a complete, annotated English translation of theZhuangziwith a philosophical focus that guides readers in understanding and appreciating the texts world of thought. Informed by traditional and recent scholarship, the translation presents the ideas, reasoning, and worldview of theZhuangziin smooth, idiomatic English carefully formulated to reflect the phrasing and philosophical nuances of the original Chinese. Providing a lucid, lively translation, this edition is a guidebook into the philosophy of theZhuangzi.