Summary of Zen in the Art of Archery

Zen in the Art of Archery is a philosophical book written by Eugen Herrigel, a German professor of philosophy. The book details Herrigel's experience learning the Japanese martial art of Kyudo (Zen Archery) under the tutelage of a master archer in Japan during the 1920s. Herrigel's narrative focuses on his journey to mastering the art, which is a journey of self-mastery, spiritual development, and learning to let go of preconceptions. The book covers topics such as the mental, physical, and spiritual preparation for shooting an arrow, as well as the philosophical and metaphysical aspects of the art. The book is widely considered an important work in the history of Zen Buddhism and is often cited as a key text in the martial arts.