"The Pursuit of Enlightenment and Pleasure: Zen and Poetry in China" by Yoshitaka Iriya, Iwanami Shoten ★ In addition to essays deciphering Zen scriptures and reflections, this book also discusses Chinese classical literature such as Hanshan, Dong Luoshi, and "Water Margin," broadly exploring the issue of "Zen and Literature." In the "Preface," Iriya, while mentioning the late Ming dynasty literary figure Yuan Zhongdao, states that while it is generally believed that "arduous pursuit of enlightenment" (求道) and "joyful pleasure" (悦楽) are not compatible, the suffering of a seeker of true experience will inevitably demand that this experience be verbalized as literature, thereby giving birth to supreme joy. This is why the book is titled "The Pursuit of Enlightenment and Pleasure," following Yuan Zhongdao. Part I discusses the issue of "Zen and Literature" by reading the poems of Hanshan, Pang Jushi, Dong Luoshi, and others. In Part II, "What is Zen Dialogue" and "Random Thoughts on Zen Phrases," frequently appearing phrases in Zen scriptures (e.g., "This one," "What," "How," "Just nothing," "With nothing," "Then," "Is it," "At," "Many children without"...) are precisely interpreted within their context as contemporary colloquialisms. Zen phrases are liberated from the conventional view of them as authorized special terminology of Zen Buddhism, super-logic beyond normal understanding, paradoxical expressions, and highly symbolic language, and are presented as words of the vibrant world of life. Part III, "Life and Death" and "Emptiness and Purity," analyzes the views on life and death and emptiness expressed in the scriptures. Part IV, "The Death of a Hermit," touches upon the image of Chinese hermits through Tao Yuanming's elegy, asserting that there is no commonality between Chinese and Japanese hermits. "Drunkenness towards Wine" interprets the excessive indulgence in wine depicted in "The Rubaiyat" and "A New Account of Tales of the World" as a sincere "aspiration towards a certain transcendent dimension." ● The item has overall age-related yellowing, stains, and scratches. ● Although checked, there may be overlooked underlining or writing. We apologize for any such omissions. ● Please purchase with the understanding that this is a used item sold as-is. ● Please confirm the photos and understand that returns and exchanges are not accepted. ● We apologize, but we do not engage in "price negotiations," which require a significant amount of time and effort, as we strive to provide polite service. We appreciate your understanding. ● In principle, immediate purchases without comments are welcome.