In October of 2003 I read A Stone’s Throw by Ross Laird. Enthused by that wonderful book, I had searched for Mr. Laird’s previous release locally for months. Even with that prolonged anticipation and expectation, I was not at all let down when I finally was able to read it.
Ross Laird‘s Grain of Truth: The Ancient Lessons of Craft is an exciting look at creativity and craft. Through each chapter he details a different woodcraft project and the broader meaning to be found in creative endeavours. Rooted in Taoism and his own experiences, his insight is rewarding and filled with a sense of sincerity.
This book employs a wonderful economy of language. More than most writers, Mr. Laird has a skill at striking a balance between minimalism and deft expression. I very much appreciate how fluidly the book unfolds. Not once did I feel the text was too slow or sparse, and I was always compelled to read on by the revelations and joy of a well written text.
I have limited knowledge of woodworking (only what I was able to gain from three courses in juniour high and from family members and friends), but I didn’t feel as uninformed as I truly am while reading Grain of Truth. Mr. Laird’s humility and thoroughness without lecturing is refreshing for such a book. He takes care to explain the purpose of each stage of his projects, and allows the reader to feel involved in each of them beyond a technical examination, into the deeply personal realm of mystery and discovery that creative acts impart.
There’s a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to be found in Grain of Truth. Artists, hobbyists and searchers of a creative outlet will all find this book to be an exciting companion to their own creative efforts. Such an exceptional work should not be overlooked.
Ross Laird‘s Grain of Truth: The Ancient Lessons of Craft is an exciting look at creativity and craft. Through each chapter he details a different woodcraft project and the broader meaning to be found in creative endeavours. Rooted in Taoism and his own experiences, his insight is rewarding and filled with a sense of sincerity.
This book employs a wonderful economy of language. More than most writers, Mr. Laird has a skill at striking a balance between minimalism and deft expression. I very much appreciate how fluidly the book unfolds. Not once did I feel the text was too slow or sparse, and I was always compelled to read on by the revelations and joy of a well written text.
I have limited knowledge of woodworking (only what I was able to gain from three courses in juniour high and from family members and friends), but I didn’t feel as uninformed as I truly am while reading Grain of Truth. Mr. Laird’s humility and thoroughness without lecturing is refreshing for such a book. He takes care to explain the purpose of each stage of his projects, and allows the reader to feel involved in each of them beyond a technical examination, into the deeply personal realm of mystery and discovery that creative acts impart.
There’s a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to be found in Grain of Truth. Artists, hobbyists and searchers of a creative outlet will all find this book to be an exciting companion to their own creative efforts. Such an exceptional work should not be overlooked.