Lao-Tzu's Tao-te Ching (the earliest version dated back to the late 4th Century, B.C.) has been translated to western languages over 250 times. Perhaps it doesn't need another translation. But this great text has the power to command and compel writers. Its effect does not diminish over time; rather, it ceaselessly invites new eyes. Translating the Tao is an act of reverence, is to become yet another of its many manifestations. This poetic rendition is based on the Wang Bi (226-249 AD) text. While translating the Tao, the passages prompted responses, memories, and philosophical thoughts which Clara Hsu incorporated in this book as part of the journey. Sometimes the reactions had nothing to do with the texts. Like water diverted from its main stream or strange flowers appearing on an old stump, the extraordinary mind of the ancient sage flowed through time into the ordinary reality and psyche of a 21st Century poet. You are constantly being surprised.