Taiji Sword and Other Writings

The form is broken down into the basic moves here, with technical descriptions (e.g., step to the north with the right foot). There are some photographs as well, and some introductory material. Some stories of the masters are in the back. The photographs are probably not enough to really understand what is happening. Most of these books are best supplemented with a video of someone going through everything seamlessly, plenty on youtube.

The book is okay, detailing in writing the moves. I wish that the pictures were more clearer to be able to see the detailed position of the sword.

This is a very interesting book and very worthwhile to have if you are interested in Tai Chi Sword. Other reviewers have pointed out the limitation of detail in movement descriptions and grainy pictures. However, much more important is that it is a glimpse into the deeper moral and spiritual value that these great practioners held for the sword and how closely they were connected to the inner meanings of Taoist philosophy. It won't be a great resource for learning the form, but reading the words of these dedicated practioners from the past has a great and lasting value for anyone trying to gleen the meaning and value of Tai Chi Sword.

An inspiring read you'll enjoy even for the experienced player.Take a look at this book and you'll see taijiquan and Jian is worthy ofa life long pursuit.

Аuthor - one of the great masters of Tai Chi. Many photos of forms with a sword. Part of stories about taichi

I wish the pictures weren't so scratchy, but this is a facinating read for anyone studying Taichi sword.

Im giving this book 3 stars based on a technicality - if one takes away the pictures of Mr. Ming doing the form, all that's left is the transmission myths from the Yang family. If one attempts to learn the sword form based only on the photos and the description below them - that may prove a hard task, since there is no connective tissue between the postures. Furthermore, the order in which postures flow may be different depending on the school. However, the photos themselves are very descriptive of this high level practitioner and scholar, Yang Cheng Fu's left hand man (right hand man perhaps being Cheng Man Ching). Which is fine, as a testament of tradition and Yang family transmission. Other than what i ve descrived above, the book is a wonderful evidence of how the anicent art lives, and constantly revitalizes through the priceless efforts of today's Western as well as Eastern players.

This book is a very interesting account of the Yang Style Tai Chi sword form. It is a translation of a classical account from the 1920's, and includes pictures of each of the postures of the form. The text is clear, and an interesting account of the form by an old master. As with most classical Tai Chi writings, it is more useful as a source of ideas for someone who already practices the form than as a beginner's teaching text. The translation is scholarly, and Ms. Davis has added a lot to this book with her footnotes and commentary. A very enjoyable read.

Great book on the Yang Style Straight sword