Hagakure, or Hidden in the Leaves

«Hagakure» (treatise on bushido) — the code of honor of the samurai. It proclaims bushido as «The Way of Death», or «live as if you are already dead». This is a classic work on samurai ethics, written in the 17th century by the Japanese writer Yamamoto Tsunetomo. The book contains reflections on the path of the samurai, his duty to his lord, loyalty to friends, and the readiness to die for his principles at any moment, in the name of preserving honor (warrior's honor).
«Hagakure» remains one of the most influential works of Japanese literature and philosophy, inspiring generations of samurai and just people seeking the meaning of life.