This is the first English-language book on the philosophy of Ji Kang. Moreover it offers the first systematic treatment of his philosophy thus filling a significant gap in English-language scholarship on early medieval Chinese literature and philosophy. David Chai brings to light Ji Kangâs Neo-Daoist heritage and explores the themes in his writings that were derived from classical Daoism most notably the need for humanity to return to a more harmonious co-existence with Nature to further our own self-understanding. His analysis is unique in that it balances translation and annotation with expositing the creative philosophizing of Neo-Daoism. Chai analyzes the entirety of Ji Kangâs essays exploring his philosophical reflections on music aesthetics ethics self-cultivation and fate. Reading Ji Kang/s Essays will be of interest to scholars and students of Chinese philosophy and literature. It offers the first comprehensive philosophical examination of a heretofore neglected figure in Neo-Daoism. . Language: English