This is a fairly rare book and the most quoted book in sporting literature. It's the finest work on the essence and ethics of hunting. Today when both hunting and fishing are often condemned, Meditations takes on an even greater significance. Ortega points out that life is a dynamic interchange between man and his surroundings, that hunting is part of man's very nature, that hunting is a universal and impassioned sport...it is the purest form of human happiness. The essence of hunting or fishing involves a complete code of ethics of the most distinguished design. The sportsman who accepts the sporting code of ethics keeps his commandments in the greatest solitude with no witnesses or audience other than the sharp peaks of the mountain, the stern oak and the passing animal.
Here's what other readers have said about Mediations on Hunting. . .
"This is not a "how to" book on hunting, it is a classic study of "why" people hunt. This philosophical treatise was written in 1942 in Lisbon, Spain, and has been cited frequently over the years. It is not an easy read, in that to appreciate what the author is presenting, one must give it some thought. The value to me is this requirement for contemplation. If you hunt or want to better understand hunting, I highly recommend this book."
"Jeff Cooper mentioned this book in his commentaries, and I've been searching for it for some time now. Its central thesis is that hunting is the natural activity of human beings. Our modern world--modern in the sense of the last 10,000 years of technological development being a separation from our origins--makes demands on our time, but the hunter is able to return to our roots and participate again in nature. This book will not convince those who are categorically opposed to hunting, but as Cooper would remind us, rabbits rarely feel sympathy for the fox."
This book, in its 1972 printing, sells for as much as $450 on Abe Books.
This is a 1972 printing and is in very good condition. $100 includes shipping within the United States. I prefer a check or Zelle.
