The Analects of Confucius is arguably the single most influential work on the philosophical, religious, and cultural life of the Chinese people. Burton Watson's translation is clear, crisp, terse, less predigested, and much more elegant than its contemporaries. This translation shall remain as a standard for many years to come. -- Philip J. Ivanhoe, professor of philosophy, City University of Hong Kong There has been a handful of competent and interesting versions of The Analects of Confucius published during the last two decades, but none of them, in my judgment, can surpass the excellence of this edition. What the seasoned scholar-translator has accomplished throughout is to render his English version in style answerable to the pithiness, simplicity, and sapiential flair of the Chinese original. Stylistic and linguistic economy, however, in no way sacrifice elegance and succinctness. This is a book that can be recommended enthusiastically to the English reader worldwide. -- Anthony C. Yu, Carl Darling Buck Distinguished Service Professor Emeritus in the Humanities and professor emeritus of religion and literature, Divinity School, The University of Chicago

Compiled by disciples of Confucius in the centuries following his death in 479 B.C.E., The Analects of Confucius is a collection of aphorisms and historical anecdotes embodying the basic values of the Confucian tradition: learning, morality, ritual decorum, and filial piety. Reflecting the model eras of Chinese antiquity, the Analects offers valuable insights into successful governance and the ideal organization of society. Filled with humor and sarcasm, it reads like a casual conversation between teacher and student, emphasizing the role of the individual in the attainment of knowledge and the value of using historical events and people to illuminate moral and political concepts. Confucius's teachings focus on cultural and peaceful pursuits and the characteristics of benevolent and culturally distinguished government. He also discusses ancestor worship and other rites performed for the spirits of the dead. The single most influential philosophical work in all of Chinese history, The Analects of Confucius has shaped the thought and customs of China and neighboring countries for centuries. Burton Watson's concise translation uses the pinyin romanization system and keeps explanatory notes to a minimum, yet his intimate knowledge of the Confucian tradition and precise attention to linguistic detail capture the original text's elegance, cogency, and wit.