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….
These are the words of ancient Chinese philosopher Sun Tzu, whose now-classic treatise, The Art of War, was written more than 2,500 years ago. Originally a text for victory on the battlefield, the book has vastly transcended its original purpose.
Here is a seminal work on the philosophy of successful leadership that is as applicable to contemporary business as it is to war. Today many leading American business schools use the text as required reading for aspiring managers, and even Oliver Stone’s award-winning film Wall Street cites The Art of War as a guide to those who strive for success.
Now acclaimed novelist James Clavell, for whom Sun Tzu’s writing has been an inspiration, gives us a newly edited Art of War. Author of the best-selling Asian saga consisting of Shogun, Tai-Pan, Gai-jin, King Rat, Noble House, and Whirlwind, Clavell first heard about Sun Tzu in Hong Kong in 1977, and since then The Art Of War has been his constant companion–he refers to it frequently in Noble House. He has taken a 1910 translation of the book and clarified it for the contemporary reader. This new edition of The Art Of War is an extraordinary book made even more relevant by an extraordinary editor.
Unlock the Timeless Wisdom of Strategy and Leadership with Sun Tzu's *The Art of War*, a newly edited reprint featuring an introduction by bestselling author James Clavell. This edition, published by Delta in 1989, presents Sun Tzu's ancient military treatise in a format accessible to the modern reader, drawing out its continued relevance to business, management, and personal success. For over two millennia, *The Art of War* has been revered as the definitive guide to strategy, offering profound insights into conflict resolution, leadership, and achieving victory. Far beyond its origins on the battlefield, Sun Tzu's teachings have permeated diverse fields, from corporate boardrooms to political campaigns, demonstrating the enduring power of his principles. This edition, edited by James Clavell, renowned author of *Shogun* and other bestselling novels in the Asian Saga, provides a fresh perspective on this classic work. Clavell, deeply inspired by Sun Tzu's wisdom and a frequent reference in his own writing (particularly *Noble House*), recognized the need to make the text more approachable for contemporary audiences. He meticulously refined a 1910 translation, clarifying its language and ensuring its relevance for today's readers. The result is a version of *The Art of War* that is both faithful to the original spirit and readily understandable. *The Art of War* explores fundamental concepts such as the importance of knowing both your enemy and yourself, the strategic use of deception, the value of adaptability, and the necessity of careful planning. Sun Tzu's emphasis on avoiding unnecessary conflict and achieving victory through superior strategy resonates deeply in today's fast-paced and competitive world. This is more than just a book about war; it's a masterclass in strategic thinking, applicable to any situation where careful planning and insightful decision-making are paramount. This edition is ideal for: * Business leaders seeking strategic advantage * Managers looking to improve their leadership skills * Students of history and military strategy * Anyone interested in the application of ancient wisdom to modern challenges * Readers who appreciate clear and accessible translations of classic texts Dive into the pages of *The Art of War* and discover why this timeless masterpiece continues to inspire and inform leaders across the globe. Learn how to apply Sun Tzu's principles to achieve your goals, overcome challenges, and achieve lasting success. This paperback edition, at 96 pages, provides a concise yet comprehensive introduction to the core tenets of *The Art of War*, making it a valuable addition to any bookshelf. With an ISBN-13 of 9780385299855 and ISBN-10 of 0385299850, this reprint from Delta is a must-have for anyone seeking a strategic edge in life and work.