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Book Review: The Art of War – Sun Tzu

“The supreme act of war is to subdue the enemy without fighting” – Sun Tzu.

Fascinating book, more like a guide to perfection of war. War has been and still is the result of every conflict of humanity. It is quite amazing how advanced and way ahead of his time Sun Tzu was! To have a guide on how to defeat the enemy and for this guide to still be relevant in today’s day and age, that itself is an enormous advantage back in the day!

The book covers, most elegantly, the strategies that one ought to bear in mind for the destruction of the enemy. From the 9 different types of ground, using elements such as fire, earth, water and wind to your advantage, how to trick the enemy with spies (all warfare is based on deception), with perfect manoeuvres, the timely use of a bluff or feigning stupidity, the implementation of the utmost discipline to your soldiers and keeping them satisfied with rewards, the incredible importance that the commander-in-chief’s behaviour has on the army and on victory or defeat, how the mindset of your army changes everything, the use of birds for knowing if an enemy has occupied a certain region, if an army is doomed to certain death, their resolve with be maximum “when there is no escape, soldiers will prefer death to flight.”

Above all, rapidity – that is the essence of war. Taking advantage of the enemy’s unreadiness and making your way by unexpected routes, attacking undefended or less defended spots. Like the thunder which is heard before you have time to stop your ears against it. Plus, long delays and long wars is often associated with disaster, with the exhaustion of supplies and decay of the mindset of the solider.

The Art of War is a book attributed to Sun Tzu, who is revered as a legendary historical military figure, as well as a philosopher, and whose real name is Sun Wu. The name Sun Tzu is actually an honorary title meaning “Master Sun”.

Although the historicity of Sun Tzu is doubtable, and the book may very well have been a compilation of several scholars – we still have the privilege of possessing one of the first and most profound books ever written on strategy and war, whose principles are still used to this day due to the their importance.

The Art of War is not only concerned with modern warfare, but also spreads and influences the mindset of people in politics, games, and business.

It presents a sort of philosophy, a state of mind or psychology for managing conflicts and winning battles. It is closely tied to the philosophy of Taoism, which follows the Tao or “The Way”,  the principle of the universe to which everything is connected. It is about Yin and Yang, life and death, action and inaction – which is why the highest victory is one attained without engaging in a fight.

Main Takeaways

Chapter 1. Laying Plans

The soldier must be in complete accord with the ruler, regardless of life and death, undismayed by danger. The commander-in-chief’s behaviour can signify victory or defeat: he must be wise and benevolent, but also sincere and strict.

All warfare is based on deception. If an army is strong it must appear weak, if it is weak, it must appear strong. Feigning stupidity and the timely use of a bluff can greatly increase the chance of victory.

Success in warfare is gained by carefully accommodating to the enemy’s purpose.

“The opportunity to secure ourselves against defeat lies in our own hands, but the opportunity of defeating the enemy is provided by the enemy himself.”

Chapter 2. Waging War

War must be swift. Rapidity is the essence of war. Long delays are associated with disaster, exhausting all the supplies, leading to hunger and the decay of the will to fight of an army.

Therefore, take advantage of the enemy’s unreadiness and make your way by unexpected routes, attacking undefended or weak spots. Like the thunder which is heard before the flash of a lightning bolt.

For this, the ruler must implement the utmost discipline, an iron will, into his soldiers and keep them satisfied with rewards, essential for the motivation of the army and for having a purpose of defeating the enemy.

Chapter 3. Attack by Stratagem

The skilful leader subdues the enemy’s troops without any fighting, and he captures their cities without laying siege to them. The enemy should be eliminated strategically, leaving the civilians and city untouched and the men will be rewarded with all the enemy’s supplies.

To win, you must know when to fight and when not to fight and how to handle both superior and inferior forces. Great results can be achieved with small forces.

If you know the enemy and know yourself, you need not fear the result of a hundred battles. If you know yourself but not the enemy, for every victory gained you will also suffer a defeat. If you know neither the enemy nor yourself, you’ll succumb in every battle.

Chapter 4. Tactical dispositions

Making no mistakes is what establishes the certainty of victory, for it means conquering an enemy that is already defeated.

Chapter 5. Energy

In battle, there are no more than two methods of attack: the direct and the indirect; yet these two in combination give rise to an endless series of manoeuvres.

The direct method may be used for joining battle, but indirect methods will be needed in order to secure victory, attacking the enemy’s flank or rear.

Simulated disorder postulates perfect discipline; simulated fear postulates courage; simulated weakness postulates strength.

The energy developed by good fighting men is as the momentum of a round stone rolled down a mountain.

Chapter 6. Weak points and strong

By figuring out the strengths and weaknesses of the enemy, you can be sure of succeeding in your attacks.

Sun Tzu was no believer in frontal attacks, but rather in a combination of surprise tactics such as attacking the weak points of the enemy’s camp,  splitting up the enemy’s reinforcements as to weaken their strength in numbers, and luring him so as to find out his vulnerable spots.

In essence, the way is to avoid what is strong and to strike at what is weak.

Chapter 7. Manoeuvring

The hardship of forced marches are often more painful than the dangers of battle. Fighting with an exhausted army is a sure way to defeat, therefore – they must be only used when intended for surprise attacks within short distances.

Attack the spirit of the enemy’s army while your army’s spirit is at its highest. This is an effective way to victory.  

“Victorious warriors win first and then go to war, while defeated warriors go to war first and then seek to win.”

One thing to mention is not interfere with an army that is returning home. For a man whose heart is set on returning home will fight to the death against any attempt to bar his way, making it too dangerous an opponent to tackle.

8. Variation of tactics

The wise leader considers both advantages and disadvantages and turning a disadvantage into an advantage.

If surrounded by enemies with the only objective of retreating, the adversary will pursue and crush the army. It would be far better to encourage the men to counter-attack and use the advantage thus gained to free them from the enemy’s toils.

The art of war teaches us not to rely on the likelihood of the enemy’s not coming, but on our own readiness to receive him.

Sun Tzu explains that a general is not to be careless with the welfare of his troops, but rather to emphasise the danger of sacrificing any important military advantage to the immediate comfort of his men.

For there is no instance of a nation benefitting from prolonged warfare. Therefore, the profession of arms requires a combination of hardness and tenderness.

Chapter 9. The army on the march

Be aware of your surroundings. If faced with mountains, do not climb heights in order to fight. After crossing a river, you should get far away from it and deliver your attack when half the army get across. If forced to fight in marshes, have water and grass near you and get your back where there are trees, for the ground is less likely to be treacherous.

The rising of birds in their flight is the sign of an enemy ambush beneath the spot. Startled beasts indicate that a sudden attack is coming. And at the same time, if birds gather on any spot, it is unoccupied. This is a useful fact to bear in mind when, for instance, the enemy has secretly abandoned their camp.

Chapter 10. Terrain

With respect to terrain, high and sunny places are advantageous not only for their strategic spot, but also because they are immune from disastrous floods.

If we know that our own men are in a condition to attack but are unaware that the enemy is not open to attack, we have only gone halfway towards victory.

If we know that the enemy is open to attack but are unaware that our own men are not in a condition to attack, we have only gone halfway towards victory.

And if we know that the enemy is open to attack, and also know that our men are in a condition to attack, but are unaware that the nature of the ground makes fighting impracticable, we have still gone only halfway towards victory.

Chapter 11. The nine situations

The art of war recognises different varieties of ground. One which is of great importance is contentious ground, that which if occupied, gives great advantage to either side. So, those in possession of it have the advantage in battle over the other side and victory will be assured.

In A.D. 532, Emperor Shen-Wu was surrounded by a great army, with his force being much smaller. Instead of trying to escape, he made orders to block all exits. As soon as his army saw that there was nothing for it but to conquer or die, their spirits rose to an extraordinary pitch of exaltation, charging with such ferocity that they defeated their enemy.

“Plunge your army into desperate straits and it will come off in safety, place it in a deadly peril and it will survive.”

In other words, throw your soldiers into positions from where there is no escape, and they will prefer death to flight.

One of the most brilliant battles was carried out by general Han Xin of the Han dynasty in 204 BC. He detached two thousand horsemen from his army to hide in narrow passages, everyone carrying their flags. Then, he confronted the enemy with his men – while in battle, the horsemen made their move to the enemy’s base, tearing up their flags and replacing them with their own flags, when the enemy returned to their base, the sight of these flags struck them with terror. Convinced that their king had been overpowered, they broke up in wild disorder. Then from both sides, they were attacked and defeated.

The skilful tactician may be likened to the shuai-jan (a type of snake). To strike at its head and be attacked by its tail, to strike at its tail and be attacked by its head, to strike at the middle and be attacked by both head and tail.

Chapter 12. Attack by fire

Another important attack is using fire. The prime object of attacking with fire is to throw the enemy into confusion. When starting a fire near the enemy’s camp, it must be done so on the side facing the wind for it to spread faster.

Chapter 13. The use of spies

Espionage was a common practice, since what enables victory is foreknowledge. That is, knowledge of the enemy’s dispositions, and what he means to do.

However, it is impossible to obtain trustworthy spies unless they are properly paid for their expenses. Hence one must maintain an intimate relation with spies, more than the rest of the army. And none should be more rewarded than the spies, in order to keep the secrets, which have the power of gaining a quick and effective victory.

Spies can be obtained from your own men or your enemy’s men, offering them handsome rewards in return for valuable information. In this way, you will be able to find out the state of affairs in the enemy’s city. Thereby gaining knowledge of the enemy.

Spies are a most important element in war, because on them depends an army’s ability to move. An army without spies is like a man without ears or eyes.

The different measures suited to the varieties of ground, the expediency of aggressive or defensive tactics, and the fundamental laws of human nature, are of vital importance in the Art of War.

Sun Tzu ultimately emphasised the purpose of war to give way to peace and harmony within the society.

“In peace prepare for war, in war prepare for peace. The art of war is of vital importance to the state. It is a matter of life and death , a road either to safety or to ruin. Hence under no circumstances can it be neglected.” – Sun Tzu

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5 thoughts on “ Book Review: The Art of War – Sun Tzu ”

I found chapter 13 to be an interesting chapter as we generally think of spies in a negative light. But they can help win wars without the fighting. I have used that chapter to teach how empathy works as a “spy” to give us insight into the mind of others and allow us to see how we can help them.

That’s fascinating!! So true, empathy gives us access to the other person’s emotions. Thanks for the comment!

The first non military, plain language Bing-fa. https://shibumimanagementcanada.wordpress.com/2019/05/11/praise-for-the-school-of-sun-tzu/ Conveying the meaning and intent of the original Art of War by Sun Tzu.

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Hi greeat reading your blog

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Book Review of The Art of War by Sun Tzu

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Genre : Humanities Author : Sun Tzu Title : The Art of War ( Buy the Book )

Table of Contents

Perhaps the greatest warfare novel written, The Art of War , is believed to have been written by Chinese military official, Sun Tzu, around 500 B.C. However, historians continue to debate the authority of the book as well as the very existence of Sun Tzu himself. The novel, a relic of Chinese history, was only recently introduced to Western culture when it was translated first into French and later English in the 20 th century.

Regardless of how the book came to be, The Art of War has fascinated great military minds and common men through its short proverbial literature. Sun Tzu’s book makes for a compelling and philosophical read, as its narrative is designed to provide counsel regarding internal traits related to the General, as well as external strategies and decisions made by the General in order to achieve victory over the enemy.

In addition to the commentary surrounding the qualities of the ideal General, Sun Tzu alludes to the crucial role the General plays in the State. He calls him the “ the arbiter of the people’s fate, the man on whom it depends whether the nation shall be in peace or in peril. ”

Thus, the duty and responsibility of the General is not simply to win battles, but he determines the outcome of the State’s destiny with his every decision. The importance of his role is not to be taken lightly.

The proverbs from the Art of War can be grouped into two main categories:

• Characteristics and traits of the great General
• Keys to achieving victory in warfare

Under the description of the great General, Sun Tzu stresses the following critical qualities necessary to become successful: Awareness of Situations and Natural Surroundings, Awareness of Self and Enemy, and the specific traits of Cleverness and Wisdom.

With regard to Awareness of Situations and Natural Environment, Sun Tzu introduces the five constant factors that should be considered when observing the conditions and landscape of the field of war. These constants are:

• The Moral Law: that which causes people to be in complete accord with the ruler so they will follow their ruler regardless of their circumstances, undismayed by any danger
• Heaven: signifies night and day, cold and heat, times and seasons; all things beyond human control and manipulation
• Earth: distances, great and small, danger and security, open ground and narrow passes; the chances of life and death
• The Commander: the General who stands for virtues of wisdom, sincerity, benevolence, courage, and sternness
• Method and Discipline: marshaling of the army in proper subdivisions, rank, as well as maintenance of roads for supply and military expenditures – practical considerations

Sun Tzu believes these are the five criteria whereby the great General groups his thoughts and observations with respect to the field of battle, leading him to intentionally develop strategies and tactics for the upcoming war. All decisions in warfare should be made with careful regard and consideration to each of these factors. It is interesting to note these constants are a combination of both physical and mental characteristics, contrary to the popular misconception that warfare is merely a physical match of strength and firepower.

In light of the quality of Awareness of Self and Enemy, Sun Tzu lists seven questions the General should consider when making comparisons between his own force and the enemy. Sun Tzu states victory or defeat can be predetermined by the answers to these seven considerations.

These questions of comparison compel the General to develop an in-depth understanding of the force at his command, as well as the enemy army.

• Which of the two sovereigns is imbued with the Moral Law?
• Which of the two generals has the most ability?
• With whom lies the advantages derived from Heaven and Earth?
• On which side is discipline most rigorously enforced?
• Which army is stronger?
• On which side are officers and men more highly trained?
• In which army is there the greater constancy both in reward and punishment?

“Hence the saying: If you know the enemy and know yourself, you need not fear the result of a hundred battles. If you know yourself but not the enemy, for every victory gained you will also suffer a defeat. If you know neither the enemy nor yourself, you will succumb in every battle.”– Sun Tzu

Arguably one of the most famous quotes regarding military tactics, ‘All warfare is based on deception’ highlights the significance of cleverness and cunning necessary for success.

Although these qualities would be ideal throughout the army ranks, it is of vital importance for the General to possess these attributes, but to also nurture and develop these skills in the army at large. Sun Tzu encourages the General to pretend to be weak so that the enemy may grow arrogant.

The true mark of a clever General is that he imposes his will on the enemy but does not allow the enemy’s will to be imposed on him. This strategy is the height of cleverness and a sure road to victory. In concurrence with the appearance of weakness, holding out traps with which to entice the enemy and feigning disorder and lack of unity is promoted.

“Scheme so as to discover his plans and likelihood of their success. Rouse him and learn the principle of his activity or inactivity. Force him to reveal himself, so as to find out his vulnerable spots.” – Sun Tzu

Before elaborating on the paths to attain victory, Sun Tzu defines true victory which is to capture the enemy’s country whole and intact, not to shatter and destroy the enemy’s army and country.

“…supreme excellence consists in breaking the enemy’s resistance without fighting.” – Sun Tzu

The reason for this is that the enemy’s troops and supplies can be used to support the conquering army, augmenting one’s own strength. In addition to the capturing of the enemy, the ‘supreme excellence’ is to break the enemy without engaging in warfare.

This proverb also emphasizes the significance of cleverness and wisdom in accomplishing victory through means outside of direct military encounters. The General’s purpose should be to attain victory, not wage lengthy and costly campaigns, out of personal spite or revenge.

Sun Tzu states the highest form of leadership is to first subvert the enemy’s plans and schemes; the second alternative is to prevent unity of the enemy’s forces; the next best option is to attack the enemy’s army in the field; and the worst plan of action of all is to lay siege to walled cities.

Sun Tzu states there are five essentials to victory:

• He will win who knows when to fight and when not to fight
• He will win who knows how to handle both superior and inferior forces
• He will win whose army is animated by the same spirit throughout all its ranks
• He will win who, prepared himself, waits to take the enemy unprepared
• He will win who has military capacity and is not interfered with by the sovereign

“Hence the saying: If you know the enemy and know yourself, your victory will not stand in doubt; if you know Heaven and know Earth, you may make your victory complete.” – Sun Tzu

INTRODUCTION

The Art of War is perhaps the most influential manual concerning the ancient tactics of warfare ever written. Historians continue to debate whether the classic was written by a Chinese military official named Sun Tzu or if Sun Tzu even existed.

Those who refute his existence argue that, had such a brilliant military mind really lived, more would have been recorded regarding his background and conquests in Chinese history. Historians who claim Sun Tzu did exist believe he was in the service of the King Ho-lu of Wu, one of the ancient Chinese kingdoms, but very little is known about his military exploits outside of The Art of War .

Some historians think Sun Tzu did not, in fact, rise to the rank of general in the Chinese military due to the lack of historical evidence of his existence, and the opinion that such talented individuals usually do not rise above certain military ranks due to their genius. The reason such individuals would often not rise above this rank was that the emperor would feel threatened by their power and cunning.

Other historians believe The Art of War was written by a collection of other individuals within the military around approximately the same time Sun Tzu may have lived; while additional scholars think he was one of these contributors.

The military manual is believed to have been written around 500 B.C, a time known as The Warring States Period in China, when the kingdoms of Chu, Han, Qi, Qin, Wei, Yan, and Zhao were repeatedly in conflict with each other for control of the land.

Throughout this historical period, there were many advancements, including the shift from predominately chariot armies to organized armies consisting of primarily infantry and some cavalry, as well as the development of great literary works that became the basis for Chinese religious and social beliefs in the following years.

The main philosophical schools of thought at the time were Taoism and Confucianism, although the philosophy of Legalism was the central governing body under which the Qin Emperors ruled.

Although the book garnered great respect in Eastern traditions, its introduction into Western cultures occurred in 1782, when a Jesuit missionary, Father Amiot, translated the book into French.

However, the first English translation is less than one hundred years old and became widely known when Captain E.F. Calthrop published his version in 1905. Since then, various translators and historians (most notably James Clavell in 1983) have updated the translation, resulting in a more comprehensive version, which is read extensively today.

The proverbs from The Art of War can be grouped into two main categories:

• The characteristics and traits of the great General, and
• The keys to achieving victory in warfare. Sun Tzu’s book makes for a compelling and philosophical read, as its narrative is designed to provide counsel regarding internal traits related to the General, as well as external strategies and decisions made by the General in order to achieve victory over the enemy. In the book, Sun Tzu continuously references the “General” as the quintessential military leader and describes the attributes and leadership skills that he should possess.

THE TRAITS OF THE GREAT GENERAL

“The natural formation of the country is the soldier’s best ally; but a power of estimating the adversary, of controlling the forces of victory, and of shrewdly calculating the forces of victory, and of shrewdly calculating difficulties, dangers, and distances, constitutes the test of a great general. He who knows these things, and in fighting puts his knowledge into practice, will win his battles. He who knows them not, nor practices them, will surely be defeated.” – Sun Tzu

In The Art of War , Sun Tzu describes the role and importance of the General alluding to him as “the arbiter of the people’s fate, the man on whom it depends whether the nation shall be in peace or in peril.”

The General is the “bulwark of the State; if the bulwark is complete at all points, the State will be strong; if the bulwark is defective, the State will be weak.”

The business of the General is to “be quiet and thus ensure secrecy; upright and just, and thus maintain order” ; and to “muster his host and bring it into danger.” Sun Tzu’s description of a great General and his leadership traits spans the entire length of The Art of War and is a recurring theme in his proverbs regarding warfare strategies.

The main traits of the successful General can be grouped into the following categories: Awareness of Situations and Natural Surroundings, Awareness of Self and Enemy, and the specific traits of Cleverness and Wisdom.

AWARENESS OF SITUATIONS AND NATURAL SURROUNDINGS

The Art of War begins with perhaps one of the most recognizable phrases written regarding warfare: “The art of war is of vital importance to the State. It is a matter of life and death, a road either to safety or to ruin. Hence it is a subject of inquiry which can on no account be neglected.” Beginning with this statement, Sun Tzu outlines the purpose and rationale behind heeding his wise words.

The book immediately introduces the five constant factors that should be considered when observing the conditions and situations of the field of war. These constants are:

• The Moral Law: that which causes people to be in complete accord with their ruler so they will follow their ruler regardless of their lives, undismayed by any danger
• Heaven: signifies night and day, cold and heat, times and seasons – all things beyond human control and manipulation
• Earth: distances, great and small, danger and security, open ground and narrow passes; the odds of life and death
• The Commander: the general who stands for virtues of wisdom, sincerity, benevolence, courage, and sternness

Sun Tzu believes these are the five criteria whereby great generals group their thoughts and observations with respect to the field of battle leading them to intentionally develop strategies and tactics for the upcoming war.

All decisions in warfare should be made with careful regard and consideration to each of these factors. It is interesting to note these constants are a combination of both physical and mental characteristics, which is contrary to the popular misconception that warfare is merely a physical match of strength and firepower.

Along with these criteria, Sun Tzu elaborates extensively on the physical conditions present on the field of battle and how those dictate strategy.

These are conditions governed by Heaven and Earth and are beyond the control of the General. They are factors that cannot be changed – they can only be adapted and twisted to the General’s advantage.

Examples of these physical situations created by Earth include the nine varieties of ‘ground,’ and situations to be recognized and utilized by the great General:

• Dispersive Ground: ground which is considered as fighting in one’s own territory – ‘home turf’
• Facile Ground: situation in which an army has penetrated into hostile territory but not to a great distance
• Contentious Ground: ground in which possession imports great advantage to either side
• Open Ground: where each side has the liberty of movement
• Intersecting Highways: ground which forms the key to three contiguous states so that he who occupies it first has most of the Empire at his command
• Serious Ground: a situation in which an army has penetrated into the heart of a hostile country leaving a number of fortified cities in its rear
• Difficult Ground: ground which is difficult to traverse: mountain forests, rugged land, and marshes
• Hemmed in Ground: ground reached through narrow gorges so that a small number of the enemy would suffice to crush a large body of men
• Desperate Ground: ground in which an army can only be saved from destruction by fighting without delay

Sun Tzu emphasizes the importance of the geography/topography and physical conditions that play a factor in the method of determining the proper manner in which to conduct the battle by stating: “how to make the best of both strong and weak-that is a question involving the proper use of ground.”

Thus, the skillful General must observe the natural surroundings upon surveying the field of battle, and his duty is to develop a battle strategy based upon these factors that will be advantageous to his army.

While an understanding of the situation and natural landscape is of great importance to the General in preparing tactics, he must “be able to turn his knowledge to practical account” as Sun Tzu stresses in the development of the steps in his military method.

The order of Sun Tzu’s military methods proceeds in chronological order as follows: Measurement, Estimation of Quantity, Calculation, Balancing of Chances, and finally Victory. Each of these dimensions of warfare builds upon the preceding one making Measurement, which consists of observations based upon the Earth element of the five constants mentioned earlier, the base on which Victory is built.

Thus, the gravity of making observations regarding nature and situational advantages cannot be overstated because everything else critical to warfare is built on the basis of an understanding of the natural environment.

AWARENESS OF SELF AND ENEMY

In this proverb, Sun Tzu places great value on the knowledge and awareness the General must possess with respect to understanding his army and the enemy. It is interesting to note that Sun Tzu does not mention the outcome of warfare if the General knows the enemy but not himself.

With respect to the opening passage, Sun Tzu lists seven questions the General should consider when making comparisons between his own force and the enemy. Sun Tzu states victory or defeat can be predetermined by the answers to these seven considerations. These questions of comparison compel the General to develop an in-depth understanding of the force at his command, as well as the enemy army.

• With whom lie the advantages derived from Heaven and Earth?

On the topic of awareness of his own army, Sun Tzu advises the General on the treatment of his soldiers.

He encourages the General not to punish his troops before they have grown attached or acquainted with him or else they will not prove submissive – a trait of critical importance in warfare and which emphasizes a personal relationship with his troops.

However, the General should also enforce the punishments upon his soldiers once they have grown attached or they will become undisciplined in battle. Sun Tzu believes soldiers should be treated in the first instance with humanity but still kept under control through iron discipline – earning the General the respect and command of his men.

Also, Sun Tzu commands the General to “regard your soldiers as your children, and they will follow you into the deepest valleys; look upon them as your own beloved sons, and they will stand by you even unto death.” Therefore, the task of the General is to walk the fine line between treating his soldiers with kindness and mercy, while commanding their respect and obedience to his orders in war.

It is up to the General’s discernment when to respond with encouraging words or punishment when soldiers are out of line. These behaviors strengthen the Moral Law that unites and connects the bonds the General has with his forces.

Sun Tzu concludes the treatment of soldiers with this statement: “If, however, you are indulgent but unable to make your authority felt; kind-hearted, but unable to enforce your commands; and incapable, moreover, of quelling disorder: then your soldiers must be likened to spoilt children; they are useless for any practical purpose.”

In addition to the knowledge and handling of his soldiers, there are six calamities to which an army can be exposed for which the General is primarily responsible. These consequences are the result of the General not being in tune with, and unaware of, the temperament and situations within his own army. The six calamities are:

• Flight: occurs when, other conditions being equal, one force is hurled against another ten times its size
• Insubordination: occurs when the common soldiers are too strong and their officers too weak
• Collapse: occurs when the officers are too strong and the common soldiers too weak
• Ruin: occurs when the higher officers are angry and insubordinate and, upon meeting the enemy, wage war on their own account disregarding the General’s commands
• Utter Disorganization: occurs when the General is weak and without authority; when his orders are not clear and distinct, and the ranks are formed in a haphazard manner
• Rout: occurs when the General is unable to estimate the enemy’s strength, allows an inferior force to engage a larger one, and neglects to place his skilled veteran warriors in the front rank

By highlighting the catastrophic effects of war, Sun Tzu underlines the General’s need to know the inner workings and well-being of his army and the effect his organizational structure has upon his officers and soldiers.

Sun Tzu also states three conditions the General must consider when ordering his men to attack: whether his army is in condition to fight, whether the enemy is open to attack, and whether the nature of the ground makes battle practical.

If only two of these conditions are fulfilled, then the General will only have achieved a partial victory. However, if all three conditions have been observed as true, victory can most certainly be achieved. The great General must be in tune with knowledge of himself, the enemy, and the natural ground and circumstances upon which the battle will be fought.

Along with proverbs specific to his own army, Sun Tzu also presents the General with advice specific to the enemy and their strategies: what enemy movements entail and how the manner in which the enemy moves tips their hand to reveal their strategies and objectives.

For example, the effect of enemy troops on the natural environment may cause the sudden flight of birds in the air, the rising of dust in different types of columns and heights based on troop movement and strength, and the movement of trees in forests and grass – the successful General should be alert to these natural signs.

The General is tasked with being observant of the manner in which these varying natural occurrences reveal enemy troop movement, marches, strategies, and ambushes. This task blends the different traits of the successful General: awareness of natural surroundings and situations as well as knowledge of the enemy.

The clever General does not attack the enemy when their spirit is keen but waits for them to appear sluggish and disheartened – this is called the art of studying moods.

Therefore, the brilliant and successful General is able to observe and decipher the body language of the enemy, whether they are primed for warfare or fight out of obligation and fear. This ability to accurately evaluate an enemy will shape the General’s strategy and the subsequent methods of warfare that are chosen in order to conquer the enemy.

CLEVERNESS AND WISDOM

“All warfare is based on deception. Hence, when able to attack, we must seem unable; when using our forces, we must seem inactive; when we are near, we must make the enemy believe we are far away; when far away, we must make him believe we are near.” – Sun Tzu

Arguably one of the most famous quotes regarding military tactics, “All warfare is based on deception” highlights the significance of cleverness and cunning necessary for success. Although these qualities would be ideal throughout the army ranks, it is of vital importance for the General to possess these attributes, but to also nurture and develop these skills in the army at large.

Sun Tzu likens the skillful and clever General to the Shuai-Jan, a snake found in the Chung mountains of China.

It is debatable whether the Shuai-Jan snake is a mythical or real creature, but the significance of the metaphor still stands. The Shuai-Jan snake is able to recognize and respond to various scenarios thrown at it: strike at its head, and it will attack with its tail; strike at its tail, and it will attack with its head; strike at its middle and it will attack with both head and tail.

By comparing the General and his army to a living creature capable of such maneuvers, Sun Tzu highlights the importance of unity and adaptability to different situations. It is also worth noting that the head of the snake is the primary means of attacking, while the tail acts as its less deadly form of striking.

With any army, the front force that is attacking is stronger, but the back must still be capable of lashing out if the proper circumstances arise. Thus, the General should lead with his strength, or the head of the snake, while able to still strike with his rear forces or the tail of the snake.

In addition to the Shuai–Jan snake, Sun Tzu implores the General to “at first, exhibit the coyness of a maiden, until the enemy gives you an opening; afterwards emulate the rapidity of a running hare, and it will be too late for the enemy to oppose you.”

Once again, similes are used to highlight the manner in which to act and strike the enemy.

Before the battle begins, Sun Tzu utilizes the metaphor of a maiden for the General to disguise his strengths and appear weak before the enemy. Thus, the enemy will advance and attack seeking victory over a seemingly feeble opponent, which is the time when the army should strike with the speed and quickness of a hare with the intention of catching the enemy off-guard and unaware.

Besides the metaphor of the maiden and the hare, Sun Tzu encourages the General to pretend to be weak so that the enemy may grow arrogant. The true mark of the clever General is that he imposes his will on the enemy but does not allow the enemy’s will to be imposed on him.

This strategy is the height of cleverness and a sure road to victory. In concurrence with the appearance of weakness, holding out traps with which to entice the enemy and feigning disorder and lack of unity is promoted.

In this manner, the enemy will take notice of apparent weakness and chaos – beginning the attack with arrogance and sure victory in sight, unaware of the real might and power of the General’s forces. “Scheme so as to discover his plans and likelihood of their success. Rouse him and learn the principle of his activity or inactivity. Force him to reveal himself, so as to find out his vulnerable spots.” – Sun Tzu

Along with cleverness and deception, the great General must develop wisdom so that when battle arrives, he is thoroughly prepared and may be able to decide upon the best route to victory. A crucial part of wisdom is forethought and preparation heading into the battle.

A wise man is prepared for any and all situations.

Sun Tzu encourages the General to think and plan before taking action: “thus do many calculations lead to victory, and few calculations to defeat; how much more no calculation at all!” Based on this point, Sun Tzu can forecast who will win or lose based on the amount of preparation and forethought by the opposing forces.

With respect to wisdom, Sun Tzu lists five dangerous faults which may affect the General; these are described as ‘besetting sins,’ which can be ruinous to warfare:

• Recklessness, which leads to destruction
• Cowardice, which leads to capture
• Hasty Temper, which can be provoked by insults
• Delicacy of Honor, which is sensitivity to shame
• Over-Solicitude for his Men, which exposes him to worry and trouble

Overall, these five possible mistakes can be grouped together under the category of wisdom: for a wise man is not reckless, but exudes courage, is not easily angered, and glorifies honor and his men, but not to a fault.

When loss is imminent, and the army is routed, the cause for defeat will surely be revealed in one of these ‘besetting sins.’ Sun Tzu extols these virtues as subjects of necessary meditation. Therefore, the wise General, being aware of these faults, studies their importance and is alert to them in his preparations.

“Thus, what enables the wise sovereign and the good general to strike and conquer, and achieve things beyond the reach of ordinary men, is foreknowledge.” – Sun Tzu

KEYS TO VICTORY

“Hence to fight and conquer in all your battles is not supreme excellence; supreme excellence consists in breaking the enemy’s resistance without fighting.” – Sun Tzu

Before elaborating on the paths to attain victory, the definition of true victory is described by Sun Tzu.

The best way to achieve victory is to capture the enemy’s country whole and intact, and not to shatter and destroy the enemy’s army and country. The reason for this is that the enemy’s troops and supplies can be used to support the conquering army, augmenting one’s own strength.

In addition to the capturing of the enemy, the ‘supreme excellence’ is to break the enemy without engaging in warfare. This proverb also emphasizes the significance of cleverness and wisdom in accomplishing victory through means outside of direct military encounters.

The General’s purpose should be to attain victory, not wage lengthy and costly campaigns out of personal spite or revenge.

Sun Tzu states the highest form of leadership is to first impede the enemy’s plans and schemes. The second alternative is to prevent unity of the enemy’s forces. The next option is to attack the enemy’s army in the field. The worst plan of action of all is to lay siege to walled cities.

In a siege, Sun Tzu compares the General’s troops to ‘swarming ants’ in an assault, with the result of the battle being a possible loss of one-third of his forces. Therefore, the wise General uses means outside of all-out warfare to pursue victory, then employs his army in an assault if necessary. Engaging in a lengthy campaign against a heavily fortified enemy is strongly discouraged.

Along with advice on the type of warfare to be utilized, Sun Tzu declares the effectiveness of a quick victory.

For if the war is long in nature, then the men’s weapons will grow dull and their spirit will be broken. In addition to the physical toll, a prolonged campaign affects troops, diminishes the resources of the nation, strains the economy and people back home grow discouraged.

The troops are disheartened; spirits are dampened, and the treasury is spent. The General must then be wary of other chieftains rebelling and taking advantage of the dire situation.

If this occurs, Sun Tzu says “then no man, however wise, will be able to avert the consequences that must ensue.” The clever and successful General wages a quick campaign with the intent of breaking the enemy’s spirit in order to achieve victory with minimal loss of life.

“In war, then, let your great object be victory, not lengthy campaigns.” – Sun Tzu

• He will win who, himself prepared, waits to take the enemy unprepared

The first three essentials for victory allude to the General’s knowledge of himself and the enemy as well as of the situation and nature surrounding the field of war.

The fourth precept stresses the importance of wisdom and preparation necessary for war so that victory can be attained through quick and decisive military action. The last proverb for victory does not fit in as well with the others, but the lesson is important nonetheless: the General should not be micromanaged by his superiors or the sovereign, who is not as aware of the military situation as the General or may have other lesser motives.

Sun Tzu touches on the relationship between the sovereign and the General later in The Art of War when he says there are “commands of the sovereign which must not be obeyed.”

The basic point is that the one who is most familiar with the situation and aware of what is going on should be making the critical decisions, and not an emperor far away in a distant palace. However, this does not give the General the authority to disregard every decision by the emperor, but rather to act on his own accord in the heat of battle where politics have no place.

“The good fighters of old first put themselves beyond the possibility of defeat, and then waited for an opportunity of defeating the enemy.” – Sun Tzu

Not all military tactics are based on offensive maneuvers – there are also defensive strategies designed to thwart an enemy’s assault. Specifically, Sun Tzu encourages a strong defense, one that will not allow defeat before any offensive tactics are deployed.

In this case, the army’s defense acts as a hedge against the possibility of failure by the army’s offensive assaults. Sun Tzu believes there are opportunities for victory when one takes advantage of the enemy’s mistakes, thereby ensuring their defeat.

The first priority of the General then is to make certain the defenses can hold against defeat and then wait for the enemy to give him the path through which victory can be attained. Sun Tzu states “the good fighter is able to secure himself against defeat but cannot make certain of defeating the enemy.”

This statement directly contradicts common perceptions about warfare mentality, in that the initial objective of the General should be about not suffering defeat rather than winning. However, this strategy will change over time and is based on the movements made by the enemy and if those actions provide an opportunity for victory.

Additionally, the General must be able to adapt his tactics throughout the course of the battle – a static battle plan is futile against the changing status of war. Sun Tzu again uses nature as an analogy, when he states that, similar to water, an army should be changing its course according to the nature of the ground over which it flows.

Water has the ability to change its form and course upon a moment’s notice when it encounters different terrain and natural surfaces.

So, an army should be fluid to the circumstances surrounding it, which is a duty the General must master in order to be successful.

“Water shapes its course according to the nature of the ground over which it flows; the soldiers work out his victory in relation to the foe whom he is facing.” Military tactics should also be similar to water in its course of action in that, as water flows from high ground to low ground, it is also better strategically to strike from high places to lower places.

Sun Tzu states “he who can modify his tactics in relation to his opponent and thereby succeed in winning, may be called a heaven-born captain.” This skill is not common to the average man and is a mark of a wise and clever General with years of experience and superb leadership skills.

Sun Tzu also uses three metaphors to emphasize the need for altering tactics based on the particular situation.

He states that, while there are only five musical notes, these notes give rise to more melodies than can ever be heard. There are only five primary colors, yet, in combination, they produce more hues and mixes than can ever be seen.

Lastly, there are not more than five cardinal tastes, but these senses yield more flavors than can ever be tasted. These metaphors highlight how warfare, though simple in its base state, is of a very complex nature through the combination of different tactics.

According to Sun Tzu, there are only two methods of attack – the direct and indirect. The direct method, although not explicitly defined, is used for joining the battle, and indirect methods are necessary for securing victory.

Sun Tzu compares the use of indirect tactics to the rising and setting of the sun and moon in that when one ends, the other rises to take its place; the sun sets only to rise again the next day. These two means of attack give rise to an endless number of tactical maneuvers. The direct and indirect methods are similar to moving in a circle since it never ends – the number of combinations between these two methods is inexhaustible.

Sun Tzu’s The Art of War , one of the most significant military books ever written, describes in great length the qualities and manners in which the notable General can achieve victory. Before the war has even begun, the General must possess an understanding and awareness of the environment surrounding the battlefield so as to prepare and develop strategies conducive to the circumstances.

In addition to knowledge of the ‘playing field,’ the General must be in tune with his army and know its strengths and weaknesses; the same can be said of the enemy forces. Knowledge of these three factors and how they affect warfare are essential in the making of the General.

While these previous factors are critical to the understanding of the battle-field, it is essential that the General develops clever and wise schemes based on this knowledge. If the General then uses his knowledge in a practical manner and deploys brilliant tactics conducive to rapid strikes with fluid tactics, victory will surely be his.

“Battles are won by slaughter and maneuver. The greater the general, the more he contributes in maneuver, the less he demands in slaughter.” — Winston Churchill

“There are but two powers in the world, the sword, and the mind. In the long run, the sword is always beaten by the mind.” — Napoleon Bonaparte

QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER:

Q1. Sun Tzu encourages the use of spies and other deceptive military methods, which translated to modern day, may appear illegal or immoral. Is Sun Tzu’s strategy, in this regard, still relevant? The United States still employs spies who live and work according to the phrase “all warfare is based on deception.” In what way can you use ‘deception’ to your advantage in a corporate setting?

Q2. Do you believe in Sun Tzu’s method of treating his army with love, such as his ‘sons’ while instilling them with discipline ( “Regard your soldiers as your children, and they will follow you into the deepest valleys; look upon them as your own beloved sons and they will stand by you even unto death”) ? If so, how do you balance these two so as not to appear weak or overbearing?

Q3. Do you believe you hold the qualities and traits outlined above that Sun Tzu deemed necessary for a great General to possess?

Q4. Do you treat business as war?

Q5. Do you believe it is possible to achieve ‘victory’ over an enemy in modern business? If so, what does this ‘victory’ look like for you and your company? Do you believe Sun Tzu’s tactics will assist you in this ‘victory’?

Q6. Sun Tzu states “too frequent rewards indicate that the General is at the end of his resources; too frequent punishments that he is in acute distress.” Is this true in a corporate setting?

Britt always taught us Titans that Wisdom is Cheap , and principal can find treasure troves of the good stuff in books. We hope only will also express their thanks to the Titans if the book review brought wisdom into their lives.

This post has been slightly edited to promote search engine accessibility.

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An Insightful New Translation of the Timeless ‘Art of War’

By Dwight Garner

• Dec. 23, 2019
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The most electric war plan in semi-recent American literature appears in “A Run Through the Jungle,” a story by the much-missed Thom Jones. Here is that plan in its entirety: “Infiltrate Hanoi, grab Uncle Ho by the goatee, pull off his face and make a clean escape.” Because warfare is rarely so simple, books of strategy are consulted.

The most venerable of these, alongside “On War” (1832), by the Prussian general Carl von Clausewitz, is Sun Tzu’s “The Art of War,” written some 2,500 years ago. There have been many translations of “The Art of War,” and a new one, by Michael Nylan, will not be the last. It’s a book that seems perpetually useful because it’s a work of philosophy as much as tactics. Doves and hawks (even vultures) can approach it for meaning. The book suggests that the real art of war is not to have to go to war.

I’ve read Sun Tzu several times, in different translations. I’m not sure why I return to it: It’s short, it’s a classic, it’s there. The book’s lessons in deception seem not to stick with me. In my mind, I’m the least devious person in the world, my motives there for all to see. But that is what a devious person would say, isn’t it?

Nylan is a professor of early Chinese at the University of California at Berkeley, and the author of several well-regarded scholarly works. Her translation is the first in any modern language by a female scholar. (Her first name is no tactical feint, but if it were she would have Sun Tzu’s admiration.)

Sun Tzu’s more recent admirers include Tony Soprano and Bill Belichick. How much they have memorized of “The Art of War,” as opposed to merely name-checking it, is uncertain. A high name can be a fig leaf for low deeds. “You always pull out Swift,” Philip Roth said about satire, “when you’re doing something disgusting.”

Sun Tzu is a favorite of Steve Bannon’s, Nylan reminds us. Sebastian Gorka had a license plate that read “Art War.” Nylan gives us former Secretary of Defense James Mattis’s contextualizing words about the book:

“You’ve got to know Sun Tzu and Carl von Clausewitz, of course. The Army was always big on Clausewitz, the Prussian; the Navy on Alfred Thayer Mahan, the American; and the Air Force on Giulio Douhet, the Italian. But the Marine Corps has always been more Eastern-oriented. I am much more comfortable with Sun Tzu and his approach to warfare.”

Nylan suggests Mattis put Sun Tzu’s lessons to imperfect use while maneuvering in Donald Trump’s White House. Nylan further reminds us in her introduction that after Nancy Pelosi defied Trump’s demands for billions for a border wall, a congressional colleague, James Clyburn of South Carolina, referred to her as the Sun Tzu of our day.

This book gets off to an uncertain start. Nylan’s introduction is logy. A typical sentence: “Whenever we innovate, or whenever irregular, unpredictable or unprecedented situations arise, as they do so often in modern life, we take the plunge, whether we welcome it or not, trying to find our way to a constructive outcome.” Sun Tzu says armies should avoid salt marshes. Nylan leads her unwitting readers into them.

Nylan’s translation of “The Art of War,” however, is marvelously pointy and plainspoken. Each sentence is a struck match. Her version of one well-known section begins:

Warfare is the art of deception. So when you can, feign incapacity, And when deploying troops, appear to have no such plans. When close, seem to them to be far away, and when far away, seem near.

Sun Tzu’s admirers seek to apply his lessons in everyday life. More than once, I have heard the “seem to be far away” admonition applied to flatulence. Nylan continues:

If the enemy commander is avid for advantage, use it to lure him in; If he is volatile, seize upon that; If he is solid, prepare well for battle; If he is strong, evade him. If he is angry, rile him. If he is unpresuming, feed his arrogance.

Nylan ran her successive drafts past “an international group of scholars drawn from multiple disciplines,” including a former military officer and a poet, she writes in her introduction. Like the wisest commanders, she sought criticism and synthesized the best of it. Her translation is insightful and alert.

The language in “The Art of War” is vivid, and Nylan finds a tone to capture it. If a commander “decides to send his troops scrambling up the walls like ants, he will see one-third of his men die, and he will still fail to take the city.” Men should be sent into battle “with the force of rolling logs and boulders.” A great leader “acts like a man who kicks away the ladder once he has climbed to a great height.”

There is a lot we do not know about “The Art of War.” It is most likely a composite text, rather than the work of one author. The legendary general in the book, Sun Wu, may not have existed.

This is a book that, in chapters as small and neat as Nespresso pods, admires achievements in corpse-making. But Sun Tzu writes: “Winning a hundred victories in a hundred battles is not the best possible outcome. Best is to subdue the enemy’s troops without ever engaging them on the battlefield.”

Follow Dwight Garner on Twitter: @DwightGarner .

The Art of War By Sun Tzu A new translation by Michael Nylan 157 pages. W.W. Norton & Company. $24.95.

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The Art of War – Ancient competitive tactics for the modern age

It’s almost a decade since Mark Zuckerberg invited Snapchat CEO, Evan Spiegel to meet him. I’ll assume that most of us would be excited about this invite. But not Spiegel. His response. “I’m happy to meet you…if you come here.” Thereby forcing Zuckerberg to fly Los Angeles to meet (and warn) Spiegel about his new photo sharing app, Poke, that would make Snapchat disappear. Spiegel’s first act on returning was to order a book for all his employees: The Art of War.

Fast forward a few months. Poke’s incredible debut is followed by a dramatic slump, soon followed by a second meeting involving Zuckerberg, Spiegel, and a $3 billion offer to buy Snapchat. An offer that seemed ridiculously good to be true given’s Snapchat’s young age, low revenues, and future uncertainties. And an offer that Spiegel would decline.

It may be unwise to believe that The Art of War held the secret to their triumph over Poke. But it seemed important to Spiegel that his team reads a copy of the text. An indication of its value. And a read will tell you the impact it can have not just in a competitive landscape, but on a personal one as well.

The Art of War – A 2500-year-old Guide for the Modern Age

Originally conceived as a document on military strategy and warfare, Sun Tzu’s ‘The Art of War’ remains a guiding text for modern society, over 2500 years after it was first written. One of the world’s oldest known texts on the subject, it is today a highly influential strategic guide in competitive endeavours across politics, sports, legal strategy, business boardroom, and battlefields.

Written for the battleground, its lessons can also be deployed in personal battles faced in a digital era. As opposed to what the title may suggest, The Art of War is not a strategic framework, but a guide. A guide to thinking in critical moments of conflict. And while we all hope and aim to avoid conflicts, they are nevertheless something we must endure from time-to-time. Whether your conflict is external with another individual, or with yourself, the advice this text delivers can be used to develop an approach that ensures you win.

If you avoid conflict to keep the peace, you start a war inside yourself Cheryl Richardson

The Art of War – Or an Art and Way of Life

We’ve been hearing from a very young age that we’re growing up in a very competitive world. Our entire environment growing up in fact was designed to encourage competition. For all the good that the competition does in instilling certain values, competition invariably breeds conflict. Sometimes with the ones we compete against. Sometimes within our teams. And sometimes, within ourselves. Despite what we want to believe, there’s hardly anyone who isn’t faced by these conflicts. They are no longer an avoidable hazard. But very much a part of our lives today. A way of living. And when faced with such battles every day, it wouldn’t be unwise to reach out to a guide in your struggles. In this case, a guide in the form of a centuries-old military strategy text.

Lessons for a Lifetime

• Choose your battles “He will win who knows when to fight. And when not to fight.” Just as Sun Tzu urges armies to engage in a battle only when they have a clear advantage, you need to pick your battles in life with a similar approach. Life is largely about choices. Choosing a career path for instance is about choosing where you can make successful moves depending on your skills, and avoiding choices that don’t fit your skills.
• Timing is key “The quality of a decision is like the well-timed swoop of a falcon which enables it to strike and destroy its victim .” Sun Tzu believed that the outcome of a move on a battlefield depends not only on the of its execution, but also on its timing. While a good strategy and plan is certainly key, its success will also depend on how well it suits a given situation. Don’t rush into anything, without ensuring the conditions favour your move. Consider marketing campaigns for example. Especially in the digital age when you can reach millions, and trends can change within days, if not hours. Your idea needs to be executed at a time when it is relevant.
• Know yourself. More importantly, know who you’re against “It is said that if you know your enemies and know yourself, you will not be imperiled in a hundred battles.” Perhaps one of the most important points Sun Tzu makes in The Art of War. Overcoming a rival is as much about your opponent and his strengths as it is about your own. Knowing your strengths, weaknesses, desires, and any tactics they may look to deploy is critical to swinging the outcome in your favour. Businesses across sectors and scale understand (or at least need to) this as well. The increasing use of data and research about your competitors and customers – even though you wouldn’t categorize your customers as opponents – is what drives survival and growth in an increasingly competitive world.
• The art of deception and disguise “A ll warfare is based on deception. ” Sun Tzu believed that a plan is not enough to win a battle. The plan needs to be disguised by deploying means of deception. Deception and disguise, or at least ‘confidentiality’ is quite common in today’s corporate environment. Whether it’s about an organization’s business mergers or deals, innovations, business launches, marketing campaigns, or even employee compensations. Secrecy and confidentiality is today a big part of running a successful business.
• Change is an opportunity “In the midst of chaos, there is opportunity.” According to Sun Tzu, change and one’s ability to adapt to change is an important factor that will decide the outcome of any conflict. As we have all witnessed at some point or another, change is an inevitable part of both, life and business as well. And the best way to adapt to change is to be calm, and prepared. Changes in the form of new laws, regulations, new innovations can all pose a challenge to any business. But a calm leadership can not only deal with these changes, but also use them as opportunities.
• Everyone loses in a prolonged war “There is no instance of a nation benefitting from a prolonged warfare.” Sun Tzu’s simple advice on winning a battle is to make every strike count. Efficiency is key. A prolonged battle takes its toll on all camps involved in terms of manpower, resources, time, and energy. The same holds true for businesses. A legal dispute for instance is bound to have a severe impact on the resources and finances of all parties involved. Not to mention what these long-drawn conflicts can do to their public reputation.
• Move first “Whoever is first in the field and awaits the coming of the enemy, will be fresh for the fight; whoever is second in the field and has to hasten to battle will arrive exhausted.” Be first to the battlefield. Familiarise yourself with the environment where you will engage your opponent. And you will always have the upper hand. Businesses have for long been taking this advice to the marketplace. Understanding a need in the market, and address it before any of your competitors. And by doing the right things, you’ll likely be ahead of anyone who follows. As one of my professors would often say, ‘If there is a gap in the market, find out if there is a market in the gap.’
• Drums and flags “On the field of battle, the spoken word does not carry far enough: hence the institution of gongs and drums. Nor can ordinary objects be seen clearly enough: hence the institution of banners and flags.” Whether in wars or businesses, leaders need tools to help share their plans, and committed teams of individuals to help execute those plans that are then seen by the world. The modern-day leader doesn’t need drums to spread his message. Rather a simple mail, or a Zoom call serves as his banner. Similarly, a business’ name, brand logo and colours serve as flags to the modern-day leaders.
• The greatest win is one where you don’t fight at all “To win 100 battles is not the height of skill, to subdue the enemy without fighting is” Wars of any kind and form are counterproductive. I think we’ll all agree to that. The best tacticians Sun Tzu believes are not the ones who defeat their opponents on the battlefield. But the ones who can manoeuvre a win through diplomacy, without fighting at all. This is perhaps the best piece of advice The Art of War offers. For businesses, governments, groups, or individuals. Winning through diplomacy and negotiation is a bigger victory than winning any conflict. One of the reasons why merging with an existing player in a new market is beneficial to businesses as opposed to entering it as a competitor.

Life is too short to spend it at war with yourself Ritu Ghatourey

Sun Tzu – The Artist behind The Art of War

A Chinese general, military strategist, writer, and a philosopher, Sun Tzu’s historicity is quite uncertain. And although he is revered as a legendary military figure and warfare tactician who has influenced military strategy in both Western and East Asian philosophies, a large part of his work focused on alternatives to battle, such as stratagem, the use of spies, making alliances and the use of deceit.

His work has over the years found more and more use in modern competitive endeavours, making Sun Tzu a common name among tacticians, strategists, business leaders, and even sports coaches. And although a lot of facts about his own life remain in the dark, perhaps even lost over the last 2500 years, one thing is certain. His legacy will not be forgotten any time soon.

The Last Word

Quite often when we think of war, we think of weapons, physical battles, destruction, and death. If our fortunes favour us, we may not have to witness such a war. But there are other battles, some hidden, and some in plain sight that we’re all fighting. Some by ourselves. Some as part of a group. The Art of War arms you for just that. Which is what makes this short book a highly recommended one even today. Especially today.

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The Art of War

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Reviews and Recommendations

We've comprehensively compiled reviews of The Art of War from the world's leading experts.

Reid Hoffman CEO/LinkedIn Reid read Carl von Clausewitz and Sun Tzu as a boy, which informed his strategic thinking. (Source)

Evan Spiegel After meeting Mark Zuckerberg, [Evan Spiegel] immediately bought every [Snapchat] employee a copy of 'The Art Of War'. (Source)

Neil deGrasse Tyson Astrophysicist, Author & Science Communicator Which books should be read by every single intelligent person on planet? [...] The Art of War (Sun Tsu) [to learn that the act of killing fellow humans can be raised to an art]. If you read all of the above works you will glean profound insight into most of what has driven the history of the western world. (Source)

Steve Blank Recommends this book

Ryan Holiday Author I know this will offend many strategy purists, but for most audiences I recommend these two books only with a pretty strong disclaimer. While both are clearly full of strategic wisdom, they are hard to separate from their respective eras and brands of warfare. As budding strategists in business and in life, most of us are really looking for advice that can help us with our own problems. The reality is that Napoleonic warfare does not exactly have its equivalents in today’s society. On the other hand, Sun-Tzu is so aphoristic that it’s hard to say what is concrete advice and what is just... (Source)

Virginia LeBlanc Question: What books had the biggest impact on you? Perhaps changed the way you see things or dramatically changed your career path. Answer: The Art of War by Sun Tzu Who Moved My Cheese by Spencer Johnson, M.D. Our Iceberg is Melting: Changing and Succeeding Under Any Conditions by John Kotter Conscious Capitalism by John Mackey The Talent Code by Daniel Coyle Divergent series by Veronica Roth A mash up, I know…some simple others profound but just as important, eye-opening, and affirming. These and so many more helped change how I see things, my thinking and being, and helped to understand... (Source)

Boban Dedovic When I was starting my career I wasn’t very even tempered, especially when dealing with people who I believed wronged me. This demeanor wasn’t helpful when I started running my own company because things go wrong every day—it’s just the way of things. I found myself spending lots of time chasing down contractors who didn’t finish work properly, domain squatters...etc. We were planning to initiate legal action against a party who was misusing our copyright when I recalled Sun Tzu’s famous The Art of War, a short read on dealing with military conflict. The book outlined how any conflict should... (Source)

Audrey Russo Question: What books would you recommend to young people interested in your career path? Answer: Anything by Peter Senge. The Hard Thing About Hard Things – Ben Horowitz Once you are Lucky, Twice you are good – Sara Lacey Revolutionary Wealth – Alvin Toffler Black Swan – Taleb Reset: My Fight for Inclusion and Lasting Change, by Ellen Pao. Creative Class – Richard Florida Creativity Inc. by Ed Catmull & Amy Wallace Liar’s Poker by Michael Lewis American Government 101: From the Continental Congress to the Iowa Caucus, Everything You Need to Know About US Politics – Kathleen Spears The Tao... (Source)

Bernard Tan The “Tao Te King” by Lao Tzu probably resonated with me the strongest, but others like the “Art of War” by Sun Tzu, “Bhagavad Gita” or Zen Buddhist scriptures were also real eye-openers, even for a non-religious person like myself. (Source)

Bill Liao The human world occurs in language so best get good at it! (Source)

Michael Hebenstreit If you want to become an entrepreneur and succeed in a competitive environment, then there are some evergreen books as well, for example: The Art of War by Sun Tzu. (Source)

Robert Hajnal eval(ez_write_tag([[250,250],'theceolibrary_com-large-mobile-banner-2','ezslot_6',164,'0','1'])); Because running is, first of all, a mental sport and you need to learn how to dominate your opponent. (Source)

Steve Sanchez Chinese general Sun Tzu wrote in chapter 6 of his timeless book “The Art of War” about how the successful military leader wins a battle before the fight even begins. Trump knows chap. 6 well; “Art of War” is his favorite book and he fashioned his book “Art of the Deal” after it. https://t.co/R6m64TzcZb (Source)

Dave Camarillo Another [book] I have to mention. (Source)

Antulio Echevarria II It has survived, partly because of the way it was written—as aphorisms or pearls of wisdom regarding how to view strategy or to fight wars. That made it easily transferrable from one historical era to another. (Source)

Foti Panagio Honestly, it’s not really as simple as following a career path, at least not anymore. I’d recommend instead reading books on innovation and leadership because that can give you the confidence you need to blaze your own trail and to take your career as it comes. I’d suggest that a good background reading list would include [...] Art of War by Sun Tzu. (Source)

Gilles Bernhard A classic everyone should read. It only takes a few hours to read as well. It is fun to read, doesn't relate explicitly to business but yet connections with business can be drawn easily. I am sure there are loads of information online about it if you want to really go deep with this book and its lessons! (Source)

Rankings by Category

The Art of War is ranked in the following categories:

• #4 in Ancient
• #3 in Ancient History
• #8 in Art History
• #3 in Asian
• #12 in Bucket List
• #33 in Buddhism
• #1 in Business Competition
• #30 in Business Management
• #4 in Business Planning
• #6 in Business Strategy
• #2 in China
• #1 in China History
• #1 in Chinese
• #1 in Chinese History
• #7 in Classical
• #4 in Diplomacy
• #11 in Discipline
• #21 in Documentaries
• #26 in Engineering
• #21 in Enlightenment
• #27 in Ethics
• #15 in Factual
• #1 in Fencing
• #9 in Folio Society
• #1 in Free e-Book
• #6 in Game Theory
• #4 in Gilmore Girls
• #14 in History
• #10 in How To
• #11 in Human Nature
• #13 in Human Physiology
• #26 in Humanity
• #33 in Important
• #23 in Influence
• #27 in Influential
• #16 in Information
• #15 in Intellectual
• #4 in Intelligence
• #2 in International Business
• #4 in International Relations
• #1 in Karate
• #9 in Knowledge
• #13 in Leadership
• #29 in Learning
• #1 in Leather
• #3 in Leather Bound
• #18 in Management
• #7 in Marketing Strategy
• #1 in Martial Arts
• #1 in Military
• #1 in Military History
• #6 in Most Influential
• #20 in Negotiation
• #32 in Nonfiction
• #18 in Organization
• #16 in Penguin Classics
• #23 in Perspective
• #20 in Persuasion
• #1 in Philosopher
• #3 in Philosophy
• #7 in Philosophy History
• #4 in Political Philosophy
• #2 in Political Science
• #6 in Political Theory
• #4 in Politics
• #2 in Poster
• #3 in Power
• #1 in Project Gutenberg
• #1 in Public Administration
• #3 in Public Domain
• #10 in Quotation
• #15 in Recent
• #8 in Reference
• #4 in Research
• #15 in Sales
• #9 in Security
• #22 in Self-Awareness
• #3 in Shape
• #24 in Short
• #15 in Small Business
• #26 in Smart
• #7 in Social Engineering
• #22 in Social Sciences
• #1 in Strategy
• #28 in Success
• #19 in Thinking
• #14 in Thought
• #6 in Trade
• #32 in Translated
• #5 in Wisdom
• #29 in World
• #12 in World History

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The art of war, by sun zi (also written in english as sun tzu), recommendations from our site.

“It has survived, partly because of the way it was written—as aphorisms or pearls of wisdom regarding how to view strategy or to fight wars. That made it easily transferrable from one historical era to another.” Read more...

The best books on Military Strategy

Antulio Echevarria II , Military Historians & Veteran

“Sun Tzu, a Chinese general 26 centuries ago, tells us: “If you know your enemies and know yourself, you can win a hundred battles without a single loss.” That is the mission of intelligence. We can build all the billion dollar spy satellites we want – and we do – but to know your enemy is to talk to him in his own language. That is the job of spies, and that is what The Art of War teaches.” Read more...

The best books on The US Intelligence Services

Tim Weiner , Journalist

“Sun Tzu is completely outside the whole Western way of looking at politics and at states. For him, war was an art and an art being practised by generals, by individual commanders…He regards war as a sort of chess, one which could be played by all kinds of players against one another. He powerfully influenced Mao Zedong and developed a way of looking at war, which was then use by Mao Zedong first against the Japanese and then against his rivals.” Read more...

The best books on War

Michael Howard , Military Historians & Veteran

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The Art of War

By: History.com Editors

Updated: August 21, 2018 | Original: April 23, 2010

“The art of war is of vital importance to the state. It is a matter of life and death, a road either to safety or to ruin. Hence it is a subject of inquiry which can on no account be neglected.” So begins The Art of War, a meditation on the rules of war that was first published in China. Historians don’t know the exact date of the book’s publication (though they believe it to be in the 4th or 5th century); in fact, they don’t even know who wrote it! Scholars have long believed that The Art of War’s author was a Chinese military leader named Sun Tzu, or Sunzi. Today, however, many people think that there was no Sun Tzu: Instead, they argue, the book is a compilation of generations of Chinese theories and teachings on military strategy. Whether or not Sun Tzu was a real person, it’s clear that “he” was very wise: The Art of War still resonates with readers today.

The Mystery of Sun Tzu

For generations, scholars have been trying to figure out who Sun Tzu was–if he existed at all. Legend has it that he was a Chinese military leader in an era known as the Spring and Autumn Period. This was a time of great turmoil in China, as many vassal states vied for power and control of the country’s unpopulated territories. Under these circumstances, Sun Tzu’s skills as a warrior were much in demand.

Did you know? The Art of War became a best-seller in 2001, when television mobster Tony Soprano told his therapist that he’d been reading the book. After that, the book was in such demand that Oxford University Press had to print 25,000 extra copies.

As the story goes, the king of one of the feuding vassal states challenged Sun Tzu to prove his military expertise by turning a harem of royal courtesans into an organized, well-trained fighting force. At first, the courtesans failed to perform their duties; in response, Sun Tzu beheaded two of the king’s favorites in front of everyone. After that, the courtesan armies followed orders perfectly, and the king was so impressed that he put Sun Tzu in charge of his whole military.

Scholars do not know how The Art of War came to be—and whether or not “Sun Tzu,” if he existed, had anything to do with its creation. What they do know is that copies of the book, typically written on sets of sewn-together bamboo slats, ended up in the hands of politicians, military leaders and scholars across China. From there, translated copies of “Sun Tzu’s” work found their way to Korea and Japan. (The oldest Japanese version dates from the 8th century A.D.)

For more than 1,000 years, rulers and scholars across Asia consulted The Art of War as they plotted their military maneuvers and imperial conquests. Japanese samurai, for example, studied it closely. However, it did not reach the Western world until the end of the 18th century, when a Jesuit missionary translated the book into French. (Historians say that the French emperor Napoleon was the first Western leader to follow its teachings.) It was finally translated into English in 1905.

Premises of The Art of War

The Art of War presents the basic principles of warfare and gives military leaders advice on when and how to fight. Its 13 chapters offer specific battle strategies–for example, one tells commanders how to move armies through inhospitable terrain, while another explains how to use and respond to different types of weapons–but they also give more general advice about conflicts and their resolution. Rules like “He will win who knows when to fight and when not to fight;” “He will win who knows how to handle both superior and inferior forces;” “He will win whose army is animated by the same spirit throughout all its ranks;” “Victory usually goes to the army who has better trained officers and men;” and “Know the enemy and know yourself; in a hundred battles you will never be in peril” can be applied to particular battle situations as well as to other kinds of disagreements and challenges.

The Art of War Today

Ever since The Art of War was published, military leaders have been following its advice. In the twentieth century, the Communist leader Mao Zedong said that the lessons he learned from The Art of War helped him defeat Chiang Kai-Shek’s Nationalist forces during the Chinese Civil War . Other recent devotees of Sun Tzu’s work include Viet Minh commanders Vo Nguyen Giap and Ho Chi Minh and American Gulf War generals Norman Schwarzkopf and Colin Powell .

Meanwhile, executives and lawyers use the teachings of The Art of War to get the upper hand in negotiations and to win trials. Business-school professors assign the book to their students and sports coaches use it to win games. It has even been the subject of a self-help dating guide. Plainly, this 2,500-year-old book still resonates with a 21st-century audience.

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The Art of War

Introduction.

“The Art of War” by Sun Tzu is not just a book; it’s a legendary manuscript that transcends time 🕰️. Crafted over 2,500 years ago in ancient China, it’s hailed as the quintessential guide to military strategy and tactics. But its influence goes beyond the battlefield 🏹—its principles have been applied to business, sports, and diplomacy. Sun Tzu, a mysterious figure whose life is shrouded in myth, is believed to have been a brilliant military strategist and philosopher. His work belongs to the genre of military theory but stands out for its deep strategic insights and its application to situations far removed from combat.

The context in which Sun Tzu wrote was one of constant warfare among the states of ancient China. In such turbulent times, “The Art of War” served as an essential handbook for commanders to outsmart their adversaries. Despite the centuries, the aura of wisdom in Sun Tzu’s words has not dimmed. It remains a cornerstone text not only for those interested in the art of warfare but also for anyone who seeks to master the strategies of navigating complex challenges in life 🌟.

Let’s delve deeper into the teachings of Sun Tzu and uncover the timeless wisdom embedded in “The Art of War.”

Plot Summary

Exposition — The book opens with the fundamental premise that war is a vital matter of state, necessitating deep analysis and planning. Sun Tzu establishes the importance of five critical factors that should be considered before engaging in battle: moral law, heaven, earth, the commander, and method and discipline.

Rising Action — As the treatise unfolds, Sun Tzu elaborates on the intricacies of warfare strategies. This includes the art of deception, the significance of adaptability, and the importance of positioning and the element of surprise. The tension in the narrative builds as Sun Tzu emphasizes the complexity and the multifaceted nature of war, where every action must be calculated with precision.

Climax — The climax of “The Art of War” could be seen in the strategic principles that Sun Tzu advocates for ensuring victory. This includes attacking the enemy’s strategy, creating discord within their ranks, and the criticality of espionage. The teachings reach a point of maximum intensity as Sun Tzu presents the idea that the pinnacle of military deployment approaches the formless: if it is formless, the deepest spy cannot discern it nor the wise make plans against it.

Falling Action — Following the climax, Sun Tzu begins to detail the use of spies and the importance of intelligence in warfare, indicating strategies for survival and success. This section serves as the falling action where the strategies begin to converge on practical applications, guiding the reader on how to implement these timeless tactics.

Resolution — The resolution of “The Art of War” is found in its final chapters, which encapsulate the essence of Sun Tzu’s military philosophy. Victory and defeat are predetermined by the strategic acumen of the commanders and their ability to adapt to changing circumstances. The ultimate goal is to win without fighting, achieving victory through superior strategy.

Each section of “The Art of War” builds upon the last, creating a comprehensive guide that has been applied not just in military contexts but in business, leadership, and personal challenges, demonstrating its timeless applicability and the profound insight of its author, Sun Tzu.

Character Analysis

The commander —.

• Personality : The commander stands as the epitome of wisdom, moral integrity, and strategic acumen. He embodies calmness, courage, and intelligence.
• Motivations : His primary motivation is to secure victory for his state with minimal loss and through the most efficient strategies possible.
• Character Development : Through the strategic principles outlined by Sun Tzu, the commander learns to be adaptable, to employ deception wisely, and to leverage the environment and his own strengths against the enemy’s weaknesses.

The Enemy —

• Personality : The enemy is a variable character, sometimes portrayed as strong and at other times as vulnerable, depending on the context of the strategies being discussed.
• Motivations : Seeking victory and the expansion or defense of their territory.
• Character Development : The enemy’s progression is not detailed personally but is implicit in the changing strategies the commander must employ. The enemy’s actions and reactions are crucial in determining the commander’s strategies.

The State —

• Personality : The state is an abstract entity, represented by its people, its leadership, and its resources.
• Motivations : The preservation of its territory, the welfare of its people, and the maintenance or expansion of its power.
• Character Development : While the state itself does not develop in a narrative sense, the well-being and security of the state are directly affected by the actions of the commander and the outcomes of conflicts.

Character Analysis Summary

This analysis draws on the qualities and strategies Sun Tzu attributes to successful leadership and the dynamics of conflict, portraying how an understanding of human nature and strategic planning are crucial in overcoming challenges.

Themes and Symbols

“The Art of War” by Sun Tzu is rich with themes and symbols that transcend its immediate context of military strategy, offering wisdom applicable to various aspects of life and different fields. Here, we’ll explore the major themes and the symbolic elements that contribute to the overarching meaning of this ancient text.

Strategy and Planning —

The core theme of Sun Tzu’s work is the importance of careful planning and strategic foresight in achieving success. Sun Tzu emphasizes that victory comes from knowing when to engage in battle just as much as it does from the actual engagement. This theme underlines the entire text, serving as a guide for readers on the importance of preparation and understanding one’s own strengths and weaknesses as well as those of the opponent.

Knowledge and Deception —

Sun Tzu posits that knowledge—of oneself, the enemy, and the environment—is the foundation of effective strategy. Coupled with this is the theme of deception: appearing weak when strong, and strong when weak. This duality symbolizes the nuanced nature of conflict, where appearances and reality are often manipulated to gain advantage.

Adaptability and Flexibility —

The treatise underscores adaptability as a critical attribute for success. The fluidity of water, which adapts to the terrain it flows through, is a recurring symbol for this theme. It illustrates the idea that success in war (and by extension, in any competitive scenario) comes from being as adaptable and flexible as the water that molds itself according to the landscape.

Leadership and Wisdom —

Leadership is a central theme, with the ideal leader portrayed as wise, morally upright, and strategic. This theme is symbolic of the ideal qualities required to navigate complex challenges, not just in warfare but in any leadership role.

War as a Reflection of Life —

While “The Art of War” is ostensibly about military strategy, it symbolically represents life’s conflicts and competitions. The principles of strategy, adaptability, and leadership are as applicable to personal and professional challenges as they are to warfare.

Moral Influence and Authority —

The concept of “Moral Law,” where the people are in harmony with their ruler and will follow him in utmost peril, symbolizes the importance of moral influence and authority. It reflects the idea that leadership is most effective when it is morally grounded and in harmony with the led.

The Environment —

The terrain and the seasons are symbolically significant in Sun Tzu’s strategy. They represent the external factors that can significantly impact the outcome of any endeavor. Understanding and adapting to these factors are crucial for success.

These themes and symbols from “The Art of War” demonstrate that Sun Tzu’s work is not only about warfare but about the broader strategy and wisdom applicable in various spheres of life. The text encourages readers to think deeply about conflict, strategy, and leadership, making it a timeless piece of literature.

Style and Tone

Sun Tzu’s “The Art of War” exhibits a distinctive style and tone that have contributed to its status as a timeless masterpiece in military strategy and beyond. Its writing style is succinct and pragmatic, offering deep insights in a concise manner. The tone is authoritative yet reflective, providing strategic advice with philosophical undertones. Here’s a closer look:

Conciseness and Clarity —

• Sun Tzu’s work is characterized by its brevity and precision. Each sentence is packed with meaning, requiring the reader to ponder deeply to grasp the full extent of its wisdom.
• This concise nature ensures that the strategies and principles are presented clearly, making them accessible to leaders and strategists across different eras.

Directive and Didactic —

• The text often adopts a directive tone, offering explicit guidance on military strategy and leadership. This didactic approach serves as a direct instructional manual for readers seeking to apply these tactics.
• This tone reflects Sun Tzu’s role as a teacher and mentor, imparting knowledge in a straightforward manner to ensure the principles are understood and can be effectively applied.

Philosophical and Reflective —

• Beyond the immediate context of military strategy, the text delves into philosophical reflections on the nature of conflict, leadership, and human behavior.
• This reflective tone invites readers to consider the broader implications of the strategies discussed, highlighting the depth and versatility of Sun Tzu’s insights.

Analytical and Strategic —

• Sun Tzu employs an analytical approach to warfare, emphasizing the importance of understanding all aspects of a situation before taking action .
• The strategic tone of the text underscores the necessity of foresight, planning, and adaptability in achieving success, whether in warfare or in other competitive fields.

Moral and Ethical Considerations —

• Despite its focus on warfare, the text does not glorify conflict but rather treats it as a serious and somber endeavor, to be engaged in only after careful consideration and as a last resort.
• This perspective introduces a moral and ethical dimension to the text, reflecting on the consequences of warfare and the importance of just leadership.

Through its distinctive style and tone, “The Art of War” transcends its military origins, offering wisdom on leadership, strategy, and human behavior that remains relevant across centuries and diverse contexts. Its ability to combine practical advice with philosophical depth has made it a valuable resource for a wide range of readers.

Literary Devices used in The Art of War

Sun Tzu’s “The Art of War” utilizes a range of literary devices that enhance its instructional content, making the ancient text not only a guide to military strategy but also a piece of literature that resonates on multiple levels. Below are the top 10 literary devices employed by Sun Tzu, each contributing to the depth and enduring relevance of his work.

• Analogy — Sun Tzu uses analogies to simplify complex concepts, making them easier to understand. For example, he compares the army to water, noting that just as water flows away from high places and hastens downwards, an army should avoid strength and strike weakness.
• Allusion — References to historical battles and figures are used to illustrate points. While these references are more direct than allusive, they serve a similar purpose by grounding Sun Tzu’s theories in real-world examples.
• Metaphor — The text is rich with metaphors, such as “the skillful fighter puts himself into a position which makes defeat impossible, and does not miss the moment for defeating the enemy.” These metaphors extend the applicability of military strategy to broader life situations.
• Paradox — Sun Tzu often employs paradoxical statements to provoke thought and emphasize the complexity of war, such as advising one to “be extremely subtle, even to the point of formlessness.”
• Antithesis — The use of antithesis highlights the duality inherent in strategy, such as being strong and appearing weak or being near and appearing far. This device underscores the importance of balance and the unexpected in successful strategies.
• Hyperbole — Exaggeration is used to emphasize the importance of certain strategies or outcomes, such as the critical nature of speed and surprise in achieving victory.
• Rhetorical Questions — Sun Tzu uses rhetorical questions to engage the reader and encourage them to reflect deeply on the principles being discussed, enhancing their understanding and application of the text.
• Imagery — Descriptive language creates vivid images of the battlefield and strategic scenarios, making the abstract principles more tangible and relatable to the reader.
• Repetition — Key concepts and principles are repeated throughout the text, reinforcing their importance and ensuring they are firmly grasped by the reader.
• Personification — Occasionally, Sun Tzu personifies elements of warfare, such as opportunity or the army, to illustrate their roles in strategy as if they were active participants in the decision-making process.

These literary devices not only enrich “The Art of War” as a work of literature but also deepen the reader’s engagement with the text, ensuring its teachings are both memorable and applicable across different contexts and times.

Literary Devices Examples

Given the structure and content of “The Art of War” by Sun Tzu, providing direct examples as requested would require a more creative interpretation of the text, as it’s primarily an instructional manual rather than a narrative. However, let’s conceptualize how we might find these literary devices in action within Sun Tzu’s work, using hypothetical examples to illustrate how each device could be represented in a table format for the top 10 literary devices identified.

2. Allusion

3. metaphor, 5. antithesis, 6. hyperbole, 7. rhetorical questions, 9. repetition, 10. personification.

These examples, while hypothetical, are designed to illustrate how Sun Tzu’s use of literary devices enriches “The Art of War,” making it not only a guide to military strategy but also a profound work of philosophical insight.

The Art of War – FAQs

What is “The Art of War” about? “The Art of War” is an ancient Chinese military treatise written by Sun Tzu. It discusses strategies, tactics, and philosophies for winning battles and managing conflicts. Though its origins are in military theory, its principles have been applied to business, sports, and personal development.

Who was Sun Tzu? Sun Tzu was a legendary Chinese military strategist and philosopher believed to have lived in the late Spring and Autumn period (approximately 5th century BC). His work, “The Art of War,” has influenced Eastern and Western military thinking, business tactics, and beyond.

Why is “The Art of War” still relevant today? Despite being over 2,500 years old, “The Art of War” offers timeless wisdom on strategy, competition, and leadership that can be applied beyond military contexts, including in business, sports, and personal challenges. Its teachings on understanding oneself, the enemy (or competitor), and the environment are universally applicable.

How can “The Art of War” be applied in business? In business, “The Art of War” is used for strategic planning, managing competition, and leadership development. Its principles can help in understanding market dynamics, outmaneuvering competitors, and making informed decisions.

Can “The Art of War” help in personal development? Yes, “The Art of War” offers valuable insights into self-discipline, strategic thinking, and the importance of adaptability, which can be applied to personal goals, overcoming obstacles, and personal growth.

What are some key strategies from “The Art of War”? Some key strategies include the importance of intelligence and espionage, the advantages of deception and surprise, the value of adaptability, and the significance of direct and indirect approaches to conflict.

How is “The Art of War” structured? “The Art of War” is divided into 13 chapters, each focusing on a different aspect of warfare, from strategic planning and tactical positioning to the use of spies and the importance of adaptability in operations.

This quiz is designed to test your comprehension of “The Art of War” and its teachings, as well as its author, Sun Tzu. The questions cover the book’s primary focus, its application beyond military contexts, and specific principles highlighted within the text.

Spot the Literary Devices

Read the following paragraph from “The Art of War” and identify the literary devices used:

“In war, the way is to avoid what is strong and to strike at what is weak. Just as water flows in the easiest path, so should you avoid your enemy’s strength and strike where they are unprepared. The supreme art of war is to subdue the enemy without fighting.”

• Analogy — Comparing the strategy in war to the way water flows, suggesting that one should take the path of least resistance.
• Metaphor — “The supreme art of war” metaphorically describes the strategy of winning without physical combat, emphasizing the importance of strategic superiority.
• Simile (implicit) — The comparison of military strategy to water’s natural movement could also be seen as a simile, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and finding the path of least resistance.
• Hyperbole — The phrase “subdue the enemy without fighting” uses exaggeration to highlight the ideal scenario in conflict resolution, suggesting the ultimate strategic victory is one that avoids open conflict altogether.

This exercise aims to deepen your understanding of how literary devices enhance the text’s meaning and effectiveness in conveying its messages.

World Literature in English

Review of The Art of War by Sun Tzu (translated by Lionel Giles)

I’d bet far more people have heard of this influential Chinese classic than have read it.

The military strategist to whom  The Art of War  is attributed is known in English as “Sun Tzu”, which I’m guessing most people pronounce like “sun zoo”, but which is actually supposed to be something more like “soon dzuh”. (The pinyin is Sun Zi, and the characters are 孙子.)

I’m a poor historian, so it’s hard for me to judge the impact of Sun Tzu’s text either on the battles of his own time or on those fought in the centuries since then. Its impact on the world of contemporary English-language publishing, however, is readily apparent thanks to the proliferation of books that bear titles such as  The Art of War for Executives ,  The Art of War for Small Business , and even  The Art of War for Dating . Surely the work that inspired all these copycats is worth a look.

The edition I read is based on the 1910 translation by Lionel Giles, and contains his notes inserted directly in the text. The notes explain or expand on the advice in more detail or give examples from world history of the situations described, showing how the advice applies in specific instances.

I found the translation suitably dignified but modern enough to sound sensible. The version I read (ISBN 9781444727364, 102 pages) was edited and has a foreword by James Clavell, author of  Shogun  and a series of other long, popular novels set in Asia.

What do the star ratings mean?

Here are some links to free versions of  The Art of War  at gutenberg.org:

• The Art of War , translated and with notes by Lionel Giles (1910)
• The Art of War , translated by Lionel Giles but stripped of added notes (1910)
• The Book of War , translated by Captain E.F. Calthrop (1908) (contains  The Sayings of Wutzu  as well as  The Articles of Suntzu )
• 兵法 (Bīng Fǎ) literally meaning “military tactics” (one of the astonishingly dense-looking Chinese versions)

Click to read my post on The Art of War  over at Asian Books Blog to find out what you need to know to decide whether you should bother, or how to talk about it even if you never do!

Meanwhile, China, realising that sometimes cultural products are famous for being famous, has  attempted to capitalise on  The Art of War  by using its fame as a lure for tourists… and to buttress its image as a cooperative world power. It’s worth a try, I guess.

When and Why I Read  The Art of War

Re-reading this classic for Asian Books Blog.

Genre: non-fiction (Chinese history, military strategy) Date started / date finished:  03-Jul-17 to 14-Jul-17 Length: 102 ISBN: 9781444727364 Originally published in: 2013 (this edition) Amazon link: The Art of War

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January 10th, 2015

Book review: deciphering sun tzu: how to read the art of war by derek m yuen.

3 comments | 9 shares

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

Derek M Yuen aims to offer readers a fresh and comprehensive analysis of Sun Tzu’s celebrated treatise The Art of War. Gavin E Hall recommends the book to those interested in strategic commentary.

“As yin and yang are at once interconnected, interpenetrating, and interdependent in an uninterrupted manner, the polarity of the situation essentially rests in them (or the yin-yang continuum).” (p. 16)

Whenever an individual undergoes a new experience there is a point that is known as the light bulb moment. This occurs when the individual moves from participating in an experience to understanding the experience. In other words, a richer and deeper involvement is gained post-light bulb moment. It is likely that reading Deciphering Sun Tzu: How to Read the Art of War by Derek Yuen is very much a light bulb moment for commentators on Western strategic thought, as the quote at the start of this review highlights the secret of the Chinese dialectical system and why it is predisposed to strategic thinking.

For unfamiliar readers, Sun Tzu was a Chinese military general who lived in the era of 550 BC to 500 BC in what is referred to as the Spring and Autumn period (722 to 481 BC) and immediately prior to the Warring States Period (481BC to 403 BC). He was one of several strategic commentators of the time, yet his military treatise The Art of War remains the most influential. Traditionally it is viewed in terms of the 13 Chapters, however, there is evidence that more chapters existed and today’s publications include subsequent writings, letters and other musings. Chairman Mao credited The Art of War as being central to his securing of power.

Yuen divides Deciphering Sun Tzu into six chapters that can be further subdivided into three distinct arguments. Chapters 1 to 3 focus on placing Sun Tzu within its appropriate context; to gain a true understanding of Chinese strategic culture we must also understand “language, culture, history, and philosophy” (p.13). Chapters 4 and 5 explore the traditional Western perspective for examining Sun Tzu and argue that there is little distinctive difference between The Art of War and Carl von Clausewitz’s On War . Chapter 6 explores China’s strategic cultural paradigm to provide a critique of Western understandings of Chinese strategic thought. This review will focus on each segment in turn.

On the surface, Deciphering Sun Tzu appears to be such a new piece of work that comparison and analysis is tricky. The strategic literature is well defined. Not since Martin van Creveld’s On Future War has there been a serious attempt to break the stranglehold of the Clausewitzian Trinity on Western strategic thinking. However, the philosophical segment of the book is arguably the most important.

The only way to truly understand the intricacies and subtleties of The Art of War is to be able to place the book within its proper context. Only with understanding Chinese strategic culture can the true value of The Art of War be fully grasped.

This is not a new argument, or indeed one distinct to Sun Tzu. The chances are that the reader will be aware of some Clausewitzian maxims and may have read On War . Indeed, this is the problem, as the Howard & Paret version , which is dominant in the West, demonstrates a free approach to translation and reinforces the dominant focus on war as a political instrument to suit our present nuclear weapons-led world. A change in the context of which a book is read and understood, and subtle changes in the language, can distinctly alter the message being received.

Chapters 4 and 5 focus on the notion that Clausewitz and Sun Tzu are not mutually incompatible but rather that a synthesis can be used to enhance overall strategic understanding. Yuen is particularly influenced by Basil Liddell Hart’s The Strategy Indirect Approach , and John Boyd, who sadly never published his manuscripts but whose OODA (Observation, Orientation, Decision, Action) Loop is well known. Yuen focuses on these two authors as their ideas on warfare can be viewed through a Sun Tzu lens without too much alteration or re-modelling. The same does not hold true of the wider strategic commentators in the West. Therefore, Sun Tzu and Clausewitz may have a degree of synthesis within certain conditions and situations; however, the argument that they are not distinctly different cannot be said to be conclusive.

Does the West fully appreciate and understand the intricacies of Sun Tzu? Probably not. For example, Sir Lawrence Freedman denotes five pages out of six hundred out to Sun Tzu in Strategy: A History . Does this actually matter?

Yuen is clearly attempting to influence Western decision-makers to have a deeper, more considerate, understanding of the Chinese position on a given range of issues. The basic premise is that China is an important global power and its ideas must be taken seriously as it transforms into a hegemonic position. The problem for the West is that if Chinese holistic approach to strategic culture is not understood along the lines Yuen highlights then it will not realise it is even in a confrontation, or how to compete, until the outcome has already been decided.

Deciphering Sun Tzu is primarily geared to the experienced strategic commentator as knowledge is needed to grasp some of the subtleties of the argument put forward. However, an inexperienced reader on the subject would still be able to gain the importance of understanding different culture and perspectives in which something is written, but they may lack the depth of knowledge specifically targeted in the book.

If you are still curious about whether to pick up and read this book, then the words of Sun Tzu himself should help you to decide:

“If you know the enemy and know yourself, you need not fear the result of a hundred battles. If you know yourself but not the enemy, for every victory gained you will also suffer a defeat. If you know neither the enemy nor yourself, you will succumb in every battle.”

As an aside, for anyone that wants the best translations (most accurate) of On War and The Art of War together in one book then you should purchase The Book of War .

Gavin E L Hall  is a Doctoral Researcher in the Department of Political Science & International Studies at the University of Birmingham. He maintains an interest in future technology and warfare alongside broader international security questions. His main focus of research is the role of NATO in the provision of cyber-security. Previously Gavin obtained an MA in Terrorism, International Crime & Global Security from Coventry University and a BA in War Studies from King’s College, London. You can follow him on twitter  @GavinELHall . Read more reviews by Gavin.

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The Art of War | Sun Tzu | Book Review

“Appear weak when you are strong, and strong when you are weak.” ― Sun Tzu,  The Art of War

Meticulously written with old takes on an otherwise contentious topic like war, written to highlight the multi-dimensional implications of its central topic, The Art of War is a book meant for all levels of readers regardless of whether they are beginners, at an intermediate level, or advanced and voracious book worms.

This book is known well as a timeless classic of East Asian culture and history, but it will not be wrong to say that it is a timely classic abounding in wisdom, advice, and higher-order thinking. The book is bound to make readers ponder over the sayings and wonder at the limitless wisdom that the ancients held in a time when there was little advancement in technology.

It is an ancient Chinese text which is better termed a treatise written by Sun Tzu, who was a 6th-century warrior philosopher. According to traditional historians, there is a consensus that Sun Tzu lived between 544- 496 BC, and apparently, his name at birth was Sun Wu.

The theme of the book as its title suggests is about the philosophy behind fighting the enemy and the politics of warfare, and the strategies that will lead to successful military interventions effortlessly. This has a lot to do with the scientific manner of relaying the ideas that make this text not only informative but also interesting.

The ideas of this book are meant to serve beyond its literal ends of planning and propagating battle strategies, and also include the philosophical side of life and the battles that each individual is bound to face. It is this notion of being at war with the darkness of life to be able to tackle these difficulties and emerge as a victor. The book also serves to ward off the victim mentality and to instill the value of fighting against the odds no matter how bleak the situation and circumstances look.

“Let your plans be dark and impenetrable as night, and when you move, fall like a thunderbolt.”

― Sun Tzu, The Art of War

It is with this sense of positive outlook that fighting for life becomes an art that Sun Tzu helps the reader to master through his adages. These are more logical tactics and strategic methods that will help boost the reader’s understanding of the backstage situation of war. This book has been so deeply and widely read that almost all global leaders are familiar with it and have drawn extensively from Sun Tzu’s wise sayings.

The text is divided into 13 chapters and all ideas are presented in numbered points. This eases the reading process as readers do not need to skim through lengthy passages and jot down the ideas. It reduces the hassle and does the homework for the reader too. It only asks for attentive reading while the text caters to the thought process of readers by acknowledging and understanding that not all readers have an equal amount of time and attention span.

Hence, the ideas are put forth without too much of instructive guidelines and this leaves room for readers to interpret and make the most of what is being conveyed by Sun Tzu.

“The greatest victory is that which requires no battle.”

Each chapter has a certain theme that is then elaborated in the points noted in the chapter. While fighting with energy and a good tactical plan is important, the emphasis of the text is on the laying down of proper plans that are rational, organised, systematic, and require less impromptu thinking on behalf of the warrior at the battleground.

The concept is that this reduces the risks of going unplanned at war and it transfers full control onto the warrior without letting the enemy or opposition see how well-prepared the troop is.

The text covers almost all the aspects of war and particularly the various areas of a warzone. This includes the importance of the positioning of soldiers and warriors as a part of the military strategy to fool spies and enemy warriors undercover, to the behavior that is expected from warriors, and the counter-treatment of troops in order to have a foolproof dynamic strategy that will lead to a definite victory.

However, the text is not only restricted to the physical aspects of war but also goes in-depth towards the psychology of war and being a warrior. It delves into subjects such as the need for and how diplomacy should be conducted by assuring the proper cultivation of relationships with other states.

The moot point of the text is, in fact, not to go to war with other states but to nip such a situation in its bud and to ensure that war can be avoided through peaceful talks and negotiations. Terse, crisp, and epigrammatic, the teachings of this text remain utterly significant, relatable, and relevant to modern-day readers.

The book is also not too lengthy at hardly 100 pages. It makes this more like a short pamphlet, but one that has a lot of density of thought and requires twice as much attention and dedication in deciphering the wisdom behind these thoughts.

Cannot wait to read it? Buy your copy of The Art of War by Sun Tzu using the link below.

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Book review: The Art of War

Baron Antoine Henri De Jomini's classic The Art of War was translated into English twice at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, N.Y.. The best-known translation, by Captain G. H. Mendell and Lieutenant W. P. Graihill in 1862, was edited by J. B Lippincot and Company in Philadelphia, but the most complete edition was that of 1854, by Major O.F. Winship and Lieutenant E. E. McLean. Legacy Books has brought to light the 1854 version, which included the Letter to the Emperor of Russia, the advertisement and the notice of the Present Theory of War and of its Utility.  Few writers influenced military operations up to 1870 as much as Jomini. Since Napoleon did not write a book regarding the nature of war and a method for military operations, we can say that task passed to Jomini. Swiss by birth, a Général de Brigade in the Napoleonic army, aide-de-camp of Marshal Michel Ney, enemy of Marshal Alexandre Berthier, military adviser to Tsar Alexander I, tutor of future tsars Nicolas I and Alexander II, and military advisor to Napoleon III for the Franco-Austrian war of 1859,  Jomini was himself influenced, perhaps too much, by operations of the Seven Years War, by the personality of Frederick the Great, and the by the wars of the French Revolution (one of his books was the impressive History of the Campaigns of the Revolution ). The summarized version of The Art of War was first published in 1830, and an updated edition in 1838, not long after Marie von Clausewitz published the tenth and last volume of her husband's writing. Thus, we can see The Art of War as a rival of Clausewitz's On War .  While Jomini declared that war is as an art and not a science, Clausewitz regards it as “something between art and science… something like politics.” Clausewitz additionally saw it as a kind of game, because of its inherent accidental factor.  Clausewitz, however, completely ignored the sea factor.  Jomini's book analyzes step by step the methods and the ways of war. Many of his statements are still correct; for example, that the French army's use of large offensive infantry columns during the Waterloo battle cost to it the victory, or that there must be a supreme commander of all the artillery coordinating all the units and subunits of an army in order to concentrate fire more effectively.  Other statements of his proved to be wrong.  For example, the Napoleonic system that depended primarily on the soldiers' legs was impracticable in vast countries like Russia, where logistics were lacking. In World War II, the German army subsisted on the fertile lands of Russia and Ukraine for three years. Jomini, while agreeing with Clausewitz that during the campaign in Russia Napoleon did everything he could to protect his rear and his flanks, disagrees with Clausewitz's conclusion that Russia was an impossible country for an army to conquer, attributing the campaign's failure simply to the magnitude of wartime preparation. Jomini also contradicts Clausewitz's opinion that in a war on mountainous terrain the defensive army should avoid movement because it will loose the advantages of the local defenses, using as an example General André Masséna's campaign in Switzerland, with the French army's continuous and persistent attacks.  Jomini's book had an arguably excessive influence on the U.S. Army, especially during the Civil War, when American generals put its theories into practice. Major General Henry W. Halleck first earned his reputation translating Jomini's Vie politique et militaire de Napoleon , then as a military strategist and finally as chief of staff of the Union Army.  John-Allen Price, who wrote the introduction of the restored edition, believes that Jomini is forgotten today as military writer and Clausewitz has held the greater influence over modern armies since 1870. Somehow, though, I believe that Jomini's statements on the morale of an army as a key factor for victory is still extremely relevant. All those who love history will still find The Art of War fascinating.

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The Art Of War Summary

1-Sentence-Summary:   The Art Of War has been considered the definitive text on military strategy and warfare ever since being written in ancient China around 500 BC, inspiring businesses, athletes, and of course generals to beat their opponents and competition the right way until today.

Favorite quote from the author:

Audio Summary

Listen to the audio of this summary with a free reading.fm account:

Here’s a great promotion tip: Whenever you create something, where you draw inspiration from someone else, let them know. For example, I always tweet at the authors of the books I read and write about here, to let them know I wrote something about their work. Sometimes, they share it.

I’m afraid that won’t be possible today because the author of this book died 500 BC. His name is Sun Tzu , and he was a Chinese general, philosopher and military strategist. His book,  The Art Of War , is the most influential strategy text in all of East Asia. It is divided into 13 chapters , each dedicated to a different aspect of warfare.

The reason it’s been so popular all around the world is that most of the lessons can be translated directly to other, competitive fields, like sports or business. In order to make it more actionable, we’ll look at it in a business context.

Here are 3 lessons from Master Sun Tzu :

Only enter battles you know you can win.

• Deceive your competition to make them do what you want.
• Lead your team as if you were leading a single man by the hand.

Are your mental faculties sharpened? Let’s win the battle of business!

If you want to save this summary for later, download the free PDF and read it whenever you want.

Lesson 1: Only enter battles you know you can win.

Winners know when to fight and when not to fight. Losers always fight and thus often end up losing.

Fools enter battles and then start thinking about how to win. Strategists know how they’re going to win before they even start to battle.

Have you ever thought about the fact that the most skillful fighters often avoid battles and that that’s why they’re never defeated?

Take Bobby Fischer , for instance. The most brilliant chess player of all time instantly retreated, after he won the world championship, not playing again for 20 years.

So if you’re starting a business, look at the industry first. Can you even win against your biggest competitors? And if not, is there a different niche you can fill?

Creating a soda brand to compete with Coca-Cola would certainly be an effort in vain, given that over 1 billion drinks of the brand are consumed every single day .

But maybe you can create a higher-priced, eco-friendly alternative, that targets single mums. That could make a fortune!

Lesson 2: Deceive your competitors to impose your will on them.

Mask strength with weakness, courage with timidity and order with disorder, Sun Tzu says.

A clever army will win not with their bodies, but with their minds .

Making it seem like you’re miles away when you’re close to the enemies base with distractions, or surprise attacking in several places to splinter opposing forces are common tactics in the battlefield.

They’re based on deceit and supposed to make your enemy do what you want them to do .

In business, you can do the same. I’m always baffled to discover insanely profitable and dominating businesses, which, on the front-end, appear like they’re a mom-and-pop store.

Take Appsumo , for example. There’s not much to discover, it seems like a small daily deal site, right?

Here’s the kicker: Appsumo is an 8-figure business. If you have to count, that’s north of $10 million/year. They have over 1 million email subscribers and made $1 million in their first year (2010).

There are endless examples like this one on the web, and this humbleness and modesty are a great way to throw off competitors – even if they might be your default setting, like Noah’s , who’s the founder.

Lesson 3: Lead your team as if you were leading a single man by the hand.

Eventually, your business will need a team. And eventually, that team will have to grow. But as companies get bigger, they get more complex.

Every single human adds an infinite amount of feelings, thoughts and ideas to the business, and all of those have to be managed.

When talking about armies, Sun Tzu says:

“A skilled general leads his army, as if he was leading a single man by the hand.”

Whether you’re managing a big army or a small one, the tools are the same: Break them down into smaller groups and then use clear signals to steer them into the right direction .

In business, that means teams should stay small, 3-4 people are often a good number to cooperate, before things get too complicated.

Then you can set clear signals, like sales targets, tools to use, and a daily morning briefing, to make sure everyone’s on track.

Never forget 1-on-1 interaction with everyone on your team, because if you treat your employees like family, they’ll be just as loyal.

The Art Of War Review

Wow. When I started typing I didn’t know I’d end up here. I have learned a ton about business in the past 50 minutes. Yet, this book is about, well, war.

The Art Of War is absolutely staggering. I thought I’d get a kick out of this, because I’m a big fan of The War Of Art , and just wanted to see where Steven Pressfield came from, regarding the title of his book.

I didn’t expect the advice to be so practical. Brilliant read. I’m not sure the 7 blinks cover all of the 13 chapters, but there are definitely lessons from all of them in there.

Let the blinks inspire you and then take the ideas into an entirely different field. You’ll be surprised how much you learn.

Who would I recommend The Art Of War summary to?

The 21 year old athlete, who wants to go professional in a competitive sport, the 37 year old founder, who just came up with his business plan and is still in the research phase, and anyone who ever had to lead a team, even if it was just in high school.

Last Updated on July 28, 2022

Niklas Göke

Niklas Göke is an author and writer whose work has attracted tens of millions of readers to date. He is also the founder and CEO of Four Minute Books, a collection of over 1,000 free book summaries teaching readers 3 valuable lessons in just 4 minutes each. Born and raised in Germany, Nik also holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration & Engineering from KIT Karlsruhe and a Master’s Degree in Management & Technology from the Technical University of Munich. He lives in Munich and enjoys a great slice of salami pizza almost as much as reading — or writing — the next book — or book summary, of course!

*Four Minute Books participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising commissions by linking to Amazon. We also participate in other affiliate programs, such as Blinkist, MindValley, Audible, Audiobooks, Reading.FM, and others. Our referral links allow us to earn commissions (at no extra cost to you) and keep the site running. Thank you for your support.

Need some inspiration? 👀 Here are... The 365 Most Famous Quotes of All Time »

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By: Skott Schoonover, Strategy Analyst | 04/14/2022 |

“If you know the enemy and know yourself, you need not fear the result of a hundred battles. If you know yourself but not the enemy, for every victory gained you will also suffer a defeat. If you know neither the enemy nor yourself, you will succumb in every battle.”

― Sun Tzu, The Art of War

The first time I heard those words, I instantly had to find out who said it, and buy the book to find out what else was in it.

Little did I know I was purchasing one of the greatest strategy guides in the history of humanity.

The Art of War was written in the 5 th Century BC by Sun Tzu. While initially written as a literal guide to war strategy, today it has many non-military applications including Business, Sports, and even Relationships. It has 13 separate chapters, each with a focus on a specific aspect of planning for and managing conflict. Many of these are broken down into every individual factor or variable which may occur, and how to prepare for each. It is an all-encompassing guide that accounts for all intricacies and edge cases.

It teaches the value of planning, costing, and assessing the value of a project. It discusses the importance of Creativity, Flexibility, and Contingency Planning. And it emphasizes the necessity of good Information, being Brilliant at the Basics, and Honest Self-Assessment.

What I enjoyed most about The Art of War was that I found it to be more of a Thought-Provoking piece, than an Inspirational Manifesto. While it explains that a great leader will win the hearts of their army, the book does not rely on the emotions of the reader. It does not depend upon the Reader’s adrenaline for impact, but rather shows the value of being able to temper your passion and approach tasks with a clear mind and a well-thought-out plan.

As it pertains to the quote above, I still remember standing in a row of books at Barnes and Noble pouring through those pages and coming across this quote. It was one of those “Aha!” moments where I was introduced to a thought that I hadn’t contemplated before. I realized that things I had used as excuses were actually Areas of Opportunity. The only way to guarantee my own success was to put in the hard work to make self-improvements.

In my opinion, there are helpful pieces of this book that can be applied in almost every situation. If nothing else, I highly encourage everyone to read The Art of War for the myriad of quotes that have inspired people for the past 2,500 years and see which one moves you.

The Art of War

Recommended by, book reviews.

Fred Wilson recommends 'The Art of War' for entrepreneurs.

Donald Trump recommends 'The Art of War' in his book 'Trump 101: The Way to Success'

Evan Spiegel bought a copy of 'The Art of War' for every Snapchat employee after Mark Zuckerberg told Spiegel his plans for a competing app.

Book Summary

This classic Chinese text, the earliest known treatise on war, offers strategy and tactics that can be applied to every type of human conflict.

Central to Sun Tzu's philosophy is the concept of using deception and superior intelligence to minimize risk, which has made his book required reading at military, business, and law schools around the world.

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