Synopsis The Light of Asia recounts the Buddha's life, character and philosophy, and his quest for awakening. The rare charm and beauty of Edwin Arnold's poetry has the power to move us in a way that no prose rendering of the life of the Buddha can and we cannot help but admire the courage, determination and self-sacrifice of the young prince. First published in 1879, the book has become a classic and has since been published in many editions and several languages. This fresh edition of the epic poem will fire the imagination of a new generation, inspiring them to put the Buddha's teachings into practice.