Ebook: The Unfettered Mind

The three documents included in The Unfettered Mind (The Mysterious Record of Immovable Wisdom, The Clear Sound of Jewels, and Annals of the Sword Taia) all touch on this spiritual aspect and how it can be applied not only to swordsmanship and day-to-day life. Takuan Soho (1573-1645) was a prelate of the Rinzai Sect of Zen, well remembered for this strength of character and acerbic wit; and he was also gardener, poet, tea master, prolific author and a pivotal figure in Zen painting and calligraphy. It is said that Takuan sought to infuse the spirit of Zen into every aspect of life that caught his interest, such things as calligraphy, poetry, gardening and the arts in general. This he also did with the art of the sword.