Classical Vs Romantic

I had a conversation with one of my students this week concerning a romantic vs classical approach to training. The more I thought about things my understanding of wuji (without extremes) and its value grew. I realize that when I am applying wu wei (non-striving), my training delves back and forth between a romantic and classical approach. Wu wei keeps my training organically fresh while wuji ensures whatever approach I take, my training is sustainable over the long term.

A few years back, one of my black belts submitted an assignment to me that analyzed the force vectors behind a thrust punch. There were graphs and formulas that clearly defined the value behind technique. I remember the exact words that went through my head when I read this dissertation - “Jeff’s fist go ungh!” Clearly I was in a romantic phase while my student was in a classical phase. I remember at the time that I could not comprehend any value in extreme analysis. My body was working in perfect harmony to deliver its payload in the form of my fist to a face. Neither fist or face cared that force equals mass times acceleration. Both just cared about the result. Don’t think, just do.

This week I realized that I have come full circle. I am a staunch believer in the importance of zen in kung fu and the role it plays in mastery. Staying in the present moment helps one to move purely without interference from logical thought or emotion. Yet staying in the moment makes one keenly aware of specifics and intricacies. With this awareness a deeper understanding of a technique follows. Force vectors and balance points become defined as the purely romantic awareness is fortified by the classical understanding.

“The only Zen you find on tops of mountains is the Zen you bring there.” - Robert M. Pirsig (b. 1928)