Reflecting the currently growing eco-movement, this book presents to western readers Tao Yuanming, an ancient Chinese poet, as a representative of classical oriental natural philosophy who offered lived experience of "dwelling poetically on earth." Drawing on Derrida's specter theory, it interprets Tao Yuanming in a postmodern and eco-critical context, while also exploring his naturalist "kindred spirits" in other countries, so as to urge the people of today to contemplate their own existence and pursuits. The book's "panoramic" table of contents offers readers a wonderful reading experience.

Inhalt
Chapter 1: Tao Yuanming and the Meta-Question of Humanity.- Chapter 2: Tao's Natural Philosophy.- Chapter 3: Tao and Natural Romanticism.- Chapter 4: The Evolving Perception of Nature and the Death of Tao.- Chapter 5: The Specter of Tao and the Plights of Contemporary Human Existence.- Conclusion: The Last Sacrifice and the Requiem.