Candid Kamiza

Duelling with O-Sensei: Grappling with the Myth of the Warrior Sage.
by Ellis Amdur.
(Edgework, 2000; softcover)

In a nutshell:
Amdur explores the ideals and pitfalls of the martial arts, particularly Japanese budo in its various forms, from the living fossils of the Koryu budo or old martial ways of Japan, to their modern descendants in the more art- or sport-like pursuits of Kendo, Iaido, Judo, Karatedo and Aikido. Exuberant and thought-provoking…

The big picture:
As an accomplished Aikidoka and a consultant in what he calls “crisis intervention” (see references), Amdur is full of insights into the application of Aikido to real-life conflict situations. He also holds menkyo (instructor) qualifications in Araki-ryu and Toda-ha Buko-ryu – two Koryu budo forms from Japan’s warring states period – all of which inform his witty and often caustic sketches of the trials and tribulations facing students of the martial arts, as well as the sometimes elusive rewards.

The book is not afraid to tackle some ornery myths (as the title suggests) nor to confront more serious ethical issues such as physical, emotional and sexual abuse in the martial arts, and the preoccupation of many dojo with force and violence. For the absolute beginner? Perhaps not. But a great read for those who dare to ask themselves, as one of our own distinguished Yuishinkai instructors recommends: “are we just a bunch of oriental fantasists?”.  Answer for yourself.

Look out for:

• A harangued landlord known only as “Master of Irimi”.
• Amdur’s story of how he saved his son’s life with kiai.
• Advice on how to respond when you feel threatened by someone in the dojo.