"The exercising of weapons putteth away aches, griefs, and diseases, it increaseth strength and sharpeneth the wits, it giveth a perfect judgment, it expelleth melancholy, choleric, and evil conceits, it keepeth a man in breath, in perfect healthe, and long life." – George Silver (1599)

December 10 2009

Yamaoka Tesshu and the Terror of Edo


Tesshu said to the “Terror of Edo,” recently released from a long prison term, “I’ve heard that you had more than thirty sword fights. Where did you study swordsmanship?”

“I’m almost entirely self-taught and learned all of my tactics on the street,” the Terror replied.

“How were you able to remain undefeated?”

“As soon as the challenge was made, I maneuvered close enough to feel the tip of my opponent’s blade. If he was holding the sword stiffly, I knew I had him — one fell swoop and he would be finished. If, on the other hand, the sword was held flexibly with a steady projection of ki, I took no chances — I threw my sword right at him and ran away. That’s how I remained undefeated.”

– from The Sword of No Sword

miles
NO COMMENTS
LEAVE A COMMENT

You must be logged in to post a comment.