This book chronicles the spiritual evolution of a man living in India at
the time of the Buddha--a tale that has inspired generations of readers. We
are invited along Siddhartha's journey experiencing his highs, lows, loves,
and disappointments along the way. Hesse begins by showing us the life of a
privileged brahmin's son. Handsome, well-loved, and growing increasingly
dissatisfied with the life expected of him, Siddhartha sets out on his
journey, not realizing that he is fulfilling the prophesies proclaimed at
his birth. Siddhartha blends in with the world, showing the reader the
beauty and intricacies of the mind, nature, and his experiences on the path
to enlightenment. Sherab Chodzin Kohn's flowing, poetic translation conveys
the philosophical and spiritual nuances of Hesse's text, paying special
attention to the qualities of meditative experience. Also included is an
extensive introduction by Paul W. Morris that discusses the impact
Siddhartha has had on American culture.