Kakuzo Okakura quotes, with sources

Japanese scholar and curator who wrote The Book of Tea in English to explain Japanese aesthetics and the tea ceremony to the West. Here are 7 short quotes by Kakuzo Okakura (1862 – 1913), each with the work it comes from, drawn from 4 sources.

Everyone has to build anew his sky of hope and peace.

The Book of Tea, I. The Cup of Humanity

The art of life lies in a constant readjustment to our surroundings.

The Book of Tea, III. Taoism and Zennism

We classify too much and enjoy too little.

The Book of Tea, V. Art Appreciation

Through the disintegration of the old, re-creation becomes possible.

The Book of Tea, VI. Flowers

Perfection is everywhere if we only choose to recognise it.

The Book of Tea, VI. Flowers

Would that we loved the ancients more and copied them less!

The Book of Tea, III. Taoism and Zennism

Let us be less luxurious but more magnificent.

The Book of Tea, VI. Flowers

Sources

The Book of Tea, I. The Cup of Humanity
The Book of Tea, III. Taoism and Zennism
The Book of Tea, V. Art Appreciation
The Book of Tea, VI. Flowers

Themes

Change Joy Creativity Hope Wisdom

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