One America's Favorite Books, PBS's The Great American Read
Nobel Prize-winning author: This classic of 20th-century literature
chronicles the spiritual evolution of a man living in India at the time
of the Buddha--a tale that has inspired generations of readers
Here is a fresh translation of the classic Herman Hesse novel, from
Sherab Chödzin Kohn--a gifted translator and longtime student of
Buddhism and Eastern philosophy. Kohn invites readers along Siddhartha's
spiritual journey--experiencing his highs and lows, loves and
disappointments along the way. We first meet Siddhartha as a privileged
brahmin's son. Handsome, well-loved, and growing increasingly
dissatisfied with the life expected of him, he then sets out on his
journey, not realizing that he is fulfilling the prophesies proclaimed
at his birth. Siddhartha blends in with the world, showing the reader
the beauty and intricacies of the mind, nature, and his experiences on
the path to enlightenment.
Sherab Chödzin Kohn's flowing, poetic translation conveys the
philosophical and spiritual nuances of Hesse's text, paying special
attention to the qualities of meditative experience. Also included is an
extensive introduction by Paul W. Morris that discusses the impact
Siddhartha has had on American culture.