Jillian
If you're picking up this version of the Tao Te Ching as your first version, and you're not already into philosophy - do not get this version. Do not make my mistake. It is VERY academic and technical.
All that aside, despite some rather direct/dry translations, the commentary was thorough and interesting. I'm still new to this area of literature and history so I know I didn't get nearly as much out of it as someone smarter than I would, but I did still find some interesting facts, concepts, ideas and quotes throughout my read.
If you're picking up this version of the Tao Te Ching as your first version, and you're not already into philosophy - do not get this version. Do not make my mistake. It is VERY academic and technical.
All that aside, despite some rather direct/dry translations, the commentary was thorough and interesting. I'm still new to this area of literature and history so I know I didn't get nearly as much out of it as someone smarter than I would, but I did still find some interesting facts, concepts, ideas and quotes throughout my read.