Alan Watts

Interpreter of Eastern philosophies.

A British writer and speaker known for his interpretations of Eastern philosophy for Western audiences. His works on topics such as Zen Buddhism, Taoism, and the nature of reality have introduced many to Eastern thought. Watts explored the interconnectedness of life and the nature of consciousness, often using humor and accessible language to make complex spiritual concepts relatable. His insights into the nature of existence and the self continue to inspire and inform contemporary spirituality.

Alan Watts Quotes about Sound

It seems to be the special peculiarity of human beings that they reflect: they think about thinking and know that they know. This, like other feedback systems, may lead to vicious circles and confusions if improperly managed, but self-awareness makes human experience resonant. It imparts that simultaneous "echo" to all that we think and feel as the box of a violin reverberates with the sound of the strings. It gives depth and volume to what would otherwise be shallow and flat.
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The sound of the rain needs no translation.
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Your world is all these elements. Of light and sound, of taste, smell, and touch, woven together in many dimensions on the fabulous loom of your brain. Your brain; the most complicated thing in the world, which you yourself grew...without even thinking about it.
Alan Watts
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The sound of the rain needs no translation. In music one doesn't make the end of the composition the point of the composition... Same way in dancing, you don't aim at one particular spot in the room... The whole point of dancing is the dance.
Alan Watts
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That's a waste of time. If you really understand Zen... you can use any book. You could use the Bible. You could use Alice in Wonderland. You could use the dictionary, because... the sound of the rain needs no translation.
Alan Watts
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