[Book Summary] Like Water: A Cultural History of Bruce Lee—Daryl Joji Maeda

Rating: ★★★★★

"Like Water: A Cultural History of Bruce Lee" by Daryl Joji Maeda offers a fascinating exploration of the life and legacy of Bruce Lee, the legendary martial artist and cultural icon. This book delves into the multifaceted impact that Bruce Lee had on the world, transcending martial arts and film to become a symbol of global significance.

By the way, you can find the last burial place of this Legend in downtown Seattle, WA. Today, people still bring bouquets and pay their respect to Bruce Lee and his extraordinary contribution.

Screenshot from Google Maps

This book is part biography and part cultural analysis, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of Bruce Lee's life, philosophy, and enduring influence. The title "Like Water" is a nod to Bruce Lee's famous quote, 

"Empty your mind. Be formless, shapeless, like water." 

This quote serves as a central theme throughout the book, emphasizing Bruce Lee's adaptability and his ability to flow seamlessly through different cultural contexts.

One of the book's strengths is its deep research. The author meticulously combed through historical records, interviews, and archives to paint a vivid portrait of Bruce Lee's life. It felt like a documentary recording his early years in Hong Kong, his struggles and successes in the United States, and his groundbreaking film career.

The author also dissected Bruce Lee's philosophy which surprised the author in the first place. Bruce emphasized the fusion of Eastern and Western ideas that shaped his unique approach to combat and self-improvement. He was a great example of "守、破、離" in Kung Fu. Readers will appreciate the in-depth analysis of Bruce Lee's writings and interviews, which reveal his commitment to personal growth, physical fitness, and philosophical exploration.

The book also delves into Bruce Lee's impact on popular culture, including his role in breaking racial barriers in Hollywood and challenging stereotypes about Asians in American media. It examines how Bruce's on-screen charisma and martial arts philosophy resonate with audiences worldwide and contribute to the global spread of Kung Fu. Besides, Nike and Kobe Bryant had several signature shoes featuring Bruce Lee's theme.

However, the book had to meet the unpleasant end of this Legend—Bruce Lee's pass away. These chapters may feel dense, but the information is invaluable for those seeking an exhaustive exploration of Bruce Lee's legacy and casting away rumors.