A profound book on Zen practice that examines how ancient traditions can be applied to modern life with the goal of greater clarity and progress. The Razorblade of Zen introduces Zen Buddhism and its unique meditation as a nonmystical, plain and simple, physical approach to finding sanctuary and self-examination amid the hectic everyday life that Americans face. Many people still harbor misconceptions about Zen despite the mainstreaming of meditation in America and the dissemination of Zen publishing. This book clarifies the real Zen and defines its place in our culture as simply and directly as possible, placing the practice of Zen where it belongs in today's cultural and ideological context: occupying the middle ground between extremes of rationalist science and theistic religion. From this perspective, living with Zen becomes possible without compromising the demands of modern life today. AUTHOR: A creative designer-thinker, fine artist, and teacher, Michael Elliston is aging in space-time. Founder and guiding teacher of the Atlanta Soto Zen Center and the Silent Thunder Order, his career at the intersection of creativity and Zen uniquely qualifies him to bring this new message of household Zen to America, which sorely needs it. SELLING POINTS: . Cuts through the cultural conflicts in the world today and lays out a path to compassionate living . For anyone seeking serenity and sanity in the new Age of Uncertainty . Includes a chart that compares eight dimensions where Zen differs from the cultural extremes of secularism and fundamentalism 20 illustrations