While the philosophical discussion of Zen spirituality reaches its limit, poetry offers an effective expression of the sublime experiences. From a poetic perspective, enlightenment is understood as poetic leaps in the spiritual journey, which brings people from the habitually or conventionally established world toward new horizons of consciousness. This leap is a breakthrough in the overall consciousness, rather than a progression in contemplative thought. Therefore, it cannot be adequately described through abstract representation, but poetry can metaphorically capture this leap and reveal both the spiritual meaning and the practical wisdom of enlightenment. This book will take you on this fantastic journey of enlightenment.

Abstracts of dissertations available on microfilm or as xerographic reproductions.

The appreciation of Zen philosophy and art has become universal, and Zen poetry, with its simple expression of direct, intuitive insight and sudden enlightenment, appeals to lovers of poetry, spirituality, and beauty everywhere. This collection of translations of the classical Zen poets of China, Japan, and Korea includes the work of Zen practitioners and monks as well as scholars, artists, travelers, and recluses, ranging from Wang Wei, Hanshan, and Yang Wanli, to Shinkei, Basho, and Ryokan.

Lucien Stryk has been a presence in American letters for almost fifty years. Those who know his poetry well will find this collection particularly gratifying. Like journeying again to places visited long ago, Stryk's writing is both familiar and wonderfully fresh. For those just becoming acquainted with Stryk's work, Zen, Poetry, the Art of Lucien Stryk makes an excellent introduction. It includes his early essay, "The American Scene Versus the International Scene," written shortly after his service in the Pacific during World War II, and "Digging In," his first published poem, as well as some of his best-known pieces on Zen and Zen poetry. Among the latter are "Beginnings, Ends," "Poetry and Zen," "I Fear Nothing: A Note on the Zen Poetry of Death," and his introduction to the great haiku poets, Issa and Basho. Selections of his most recent work include "The Red Rug: An Introduction to Poetry," and an imagined conversation among all four leading haiku poets called "Meeting at Hagi-no-Tera." Porterfield's informative collection includes essays about Stryk's work as well as his own prose and poetry. As the volume makes clear, writing poetry is for Lucien Stryk a sacred act. It is both escape and communion, inseparable from life's daily activities.

"The Traveler's Path to Enlightenment" is a profound collection of poetry that illuminates the transformative journey of self-discovery through travel. This anthology serves as a spiritual guide for those who seek enlightenment and deeper understanding through immersive travel experiences. Each poem within this collection acts as a beacon, offering insights and reflections that inspire contemplation, growth, and connection with the world. Through evocative language and vivid imagery, the poet explores themes of mindfulness, cultural exploration, and the profound lessons learned from encountering new landscapes and perspectives. "The Traveler's Path to Enlightenment" celebrates the beauty found in moments of insight, the wisdom gained from embracing diverse cultures, and the spiritual growth that arises from traveling with intention and awareness. The verses resonate with authenticity and depth, encouraging readers to embark on their own paths of enlightenment with curiosity and openness. Perfect for spiritual seekers, cultural explorers, and anyone on a quest for deeper meaning, "The Traveler's Path to Enlightenment" is a source of inspiration and reflection. It speaks to those who believe in the transformative power of travel and who seek to expand their consciousness through meaningful experiences. Through its introspective and thought-provoking poetry, this book encourages readers to embrace the journey of self-discovery, to honor the connections forged with the world, and to celebrate the profound journey of The Traveler's Path to Enlightenment. Let these poems be your guide as you navigate the path, discovering new insights and achieving spiritual growth with each poetic revelation.