Laozi's Dao De Jing

A Plain Translation

By: Ken Liu

Narrated by: BD Wong

Introducing a new translation of Laozi’s classic work that makes the intimidating approachable and the complex comprehensible.

Translated by best-selling author Ken Liu and read by acclaimed actor B.D. Wong, this new take on the Dao De Jing speaks directly to the sensibilities of a modern audience. Liu dispenses with footnotes and the granular details of academic debate in favor of presenting Laozi’s invaluable writing as clearly and colorfully as possible.

For those familiar with Daoist philosophy, Liu’s Dao De Jing provides a streamlined text and fresh interpretation from a veteran translator. For newcomers, Liu unpacks Laozi’s parables and meaning-rich language with an eye toward the work’s illuminating power.

The Dao De Jing has captivated thinkers for thousands of years. Now, Ken Liu’s accessible prose makes it accessible to scholars and neophytes alike.

©2023 Ken Liu (P)2023 Audible Originals, LLC.

Simply Brilliant

Lucid, accurate, resoundingly beautiful. What a gift! Many thanks to all the writers, musicians, producers, performers of this project. Thank you Audible Originals. I will be recommending this recording to friends and family. Also, hoping for a printed version.

Does honor to a timeless masterpiece

Adds back value to a masterpiece of spiritual and literary writing which I will never get a chance to read without translation. A line in to the world of translating and writing. Well researched and deeply felt crafting both as a book and as an audiobook experience. Ken Liu has not hoarded the treasure of his journey, but given it to us.

Worth reading.

You should definitely check an official translation or two or three out not just this one. This however, does give a good added perspective to the writing. I feel like it was worth the time to listen.

Worth every second

Great commentary and additional Daoist stories - the narrator is terrific and the production adds to the material without being overwhelming

Laois

Great book and teaching the way of life and way of your thinking of life

I like it

I really liked this book. It's both nice background noise and it's also so beautiful in its contents. I highly suggest it!

May be the best introduction to the Dao De Jing

Wat makes this translation of Laozi's famed philosophical work special is translator Ken Liu, an extraordinary writer in his own right. His commentary is as engaging as the most excellent Ted Talk.
A Daoist life is not entirely attainable but I don't think anyone should beat themselves up over that. It's more a process. Reading from the Dao De Jing (or Tao Te Ching) is like checking yourself, a reminder to let go of your ego.
It also parallels a lot of religious beliefs--and is largely compatible with them.

Peaceful Contemplation

I am not Chinese, nor am I a Taoist.

In fact, before listening to this translation I was wholly unfamiliar with the Taoist philosophy. I am, however, a huge fan of Ken Liu - his writing, his translating, and his thought process in general (watch interviews with him - they are fascinating).

And this was a really thought-provoking and relaxing listen. BD Wong's narration is perfect, and I plan to revisit this again.

Highly recommended for those with an open mind who want to hear new perspectives in a comfortable way.

Wow! I NEED this additionally in book format, please!

Not even an hour into this book, I wanted to buy a physical copy to take notes and write musings in the margins. But it only exists as an audiobook right now. I love the narration and listening to it, but please please please turn this into a physical book too so I can revisit it and reflect in writing on it too.

Love this interpretation

Very loving and open, love how humbling and a perspective on why caring for everyone is better than a won argument. Puts a beautiful light on attuning into yourself to be able to love others unconditionally and without strings attached. Laugh at everything, even if it makes others uncomfortable.