The Rhythm of Life, Based on the Philosophy of Lao-Tse

What it is

This is a book written by Henri Borel, translated from Dutch into English by M. E. Reynolds, and published in London in 1921 as part of a 'Wisdom of the East' series. In his preface, Borel states clearly that the work is not a translation of Laozi's writings but his own elaboration on the idea of 'Wu-Wei,' built from a few of Laozi's core principles.

Why it matters

The book shows how, centuries later, Western writers like Borel engaged with and reinterpreted Laozi's ideas for new audiences, sometimes departing quite far from the original text. It is useful for understanding the reception and spread of Taoist ideas in the early 20th century, more than for understanding Laozi himself.

Look closer

• Why does Borel feel it necessary to explain in his preface that this is not a direct translation?
• What does it mean that a writer bases a whole book on