Here is one of the most influential texts on the subtle arts of confrontation and victory ever to emerge from Asia. Composed in 1643 by the famed duelist and undefeated samurai Miyamoto Musashi, The Book of Five Rings analyzes the process of struggle and mastery over conflict that underlies every level of human interaction. It is written not only for martial artists but for anyone who wants to apply the timeless principles of this text to their life. Thomas Cleary's translation is immediately accessible, with an introduction that presents the spiritual background of the warrior tradition.