Meaning: The quote you've provided is from the book "Zen in the Art of Archery" by Eugen Herrigel. In this quote, Herrigel reflects on the potential dangers that a pupil may face on their journey to mastery. The quote suggests that, while the pupil's talent may be able to withstand the increasing pressure and demands of their practice, there is a danger that they cannot avoid. This danger is not explicitly mentioned, but it implies that there are challenges and obstacles that the pupil will inevitably encounter as they strive to achieve mastery in their chosen field.

Eugen Herrigel was a German philosopher and professor of philosophy who lived in Japan during the early 20th century. During his time in Japan, Herrigel became interested in Zen Buddhism and its application to various aspects of life, including the pursuit of mastery in the arts. "Zen in the Art of Archery" is Herrigel's account of his experiences studying kyūdō, the Japanese martial art of archery, under the guidance of a Zen master.

In the context of the book, the quote can be interpreted as a warning about the challenges and potential pitfalls that the pupil may encounter on their journey to mastery. It suggests that while talent and skill are important, they may not be enough to ensure success. The "increasing strain" mentioned in the quote could refer to the growing demands and expectations placed on the pupil as they progress in their practice. This could include physical, mental, and emotional challenges, as well as the pressure to perform at a higher level.

The danger that Herrigel refers to may encompass a range of potential obstacles that the pupil may face. These could include self-doubt, frustration, setbacks, and the temptation to give up in the face of adversity. It could also include the risk of becoming too focused on the end goal of mastery, to the detriment of the present moment and the process of learning and growth.

Herrigel's insight reflects the Zen philosophy of being present in the moment and embracing the journey rather than fixating on the destination. It suggests that the pupil must navigate these dangers with mindfulness, perseverance, and a willingness to learn from both successes and failures. The path to mastery is not a smooth one, and the pupil must be prepared to face and overcome the challenges that lie ahead.

In conclusion, Eugen Herrigel's quote from "Zen in the Art of Archery" serves as a thought-provoking reflection on the journey to mastery. It highlights the potential dangers and obstacles that a pupil may encounter as they strive to achieve mastery in their chosen pursuit. The quote encourages mindfulness, perseverance, and a willingness to embrace the challenges and uncertainties of the journey. It serves as a reminder that true mastery is not just about talent and skill, but also about the ability to navigate and overcome the inevitable obstacles along the way.