Lionel Giles

Lionel Giles was an esteemed British sinologist and translator, best known for his English translations of classic Chinese texts. Born in 1875, Giles was deeply fascinated by Eastern philosophy and literature, dedicating much of his life to bringing the wisdom of ancient Chinese works to a Western audience. His translation of the "Tao Te Ching," for instance, remains influential, capturing the essence of Laozi's teachings with clarity and grace. Giles's scholarly approach combined with his love for language made him a beloved figure in the study of Chinese literature.

Beyond his translations, Giles also contributed significantly to the understanding of Chinese culture through his essays and lectures. His passion for bridging the gap between East and West has inspired countless readers to delve into the richness of Chinese philosophy and poetry. If you're curious about exploring this fascinating intersection of worlds, you can find Giles's work available in the app, inviting you to discover the timeless wisdom he so lovingly translated.

Musings of a Chinese Mystic: Selections from the Philosophy of Chuang Tzu

Read by Scotty Smith


Lionel Giles



If Lao Tzu then had revolted against the growing artificiality of life in his day, a return to nature must have seemed doubly imperative to …