Chorale Concept for Tao Te Ching Chapter 78

This chorale explores the paradoxical power of water as a metaphor for the Taoist principles of overcoming through gentleness, the limitations of force, the virtue of yielding, and the profound strength found in softness and adaptability.

  1. The Paradoxical Power of Water

    Fluid and persistent, reflecting the soft yet unstoppable nature of water that allows it to overcome the hardest obstacles through gentle persistence.

  2. The Failure of Hardness and Force

    Stark and rigid, contrasting the ineffective nature of force and rigidity against the enduring strength of softness and adaptability.

  3. The Virtue of Yielding

    Gentle and accommodating, emphasizing the Taoist virtue of yielding as a source of strength, allowing one to navigate challenges with grace and ease.

  4. Embracing Softness as Strength

    Peaceful and profound, embodying the deep peace and lasting impact achieved by embracing softness, persistence, and adaptability as true sources of strength.