Herrigel discusses learning about Zen through years long instruction in the practice of archery. As with many explorations into mysticism, there is a need to quiet the conscious mind, in order to perceive what is being studied. This is often accomplished by rigorous repetition of a ritual until a state of unconsciousness is achieved. ( )

I originally read this as part of a class assignment in college. I do not remember what course it was but am thinking "Group Dynamics" as a sociology/psychology elective.
Although I don't specifically remember what or if I "got anything out of it" the name of this short book has stayed with me for 30 years.
While it is a quick, easy read there are some aspects of what the author is saying that need to be re-read with slightly differing cadences and emphases to the structure of the statements in order to feel one understands what is being claimed.
While I cannot find it in myself to authenticate the veracity of the author's claims to how the practice of archery (or flower arranging, or painting, or fencing) along with controlled and mindful breathing exercises can open the door to a 'spiritual' conquest of both inner and outer fears and desires, this short book remains on my list to read again. I can't negative critique the content, particularly since the author states "those who do not know the power... cannot judge the conquests it makes possible".
I'm still skeptical. I'm still an empiricist.
Perhaps I have not met the appropriate 'master' to guide me. Perhaps I've not been drawn to a single task on which to concentrate my efforts.
Perhaps the path of Zen shall remain closed to me. ( )

Quick read walks you through the experience of a German philosopher to learn Japanese archery in ita spiritual Zen form.

The book walks you through the transformation, this process is hard, takes several years and leads to a kind of non conscious state.

The most practical translation I have read of Zen in an accessible format. ( )

Somewhat stilted in style but at 81 pages, some insights into the progress and challenging facing a Zen archery student. Fascinating to have done this in the 1950s. ( )

In this wonderful little book, Mr. Herrigel, a German philosopher who came to Japan and took up the practice of archery toward an understanding of Zen, gives an illuminating account of his own experience. Through this expression, the Western reader will find a more familiar manner of dealing with what very often must seem to be a strange and somewhat unapproachable Eastern experience.' --from the introduction by Daisetz T. Suzuki