Pine Trees screen (Shōrin-zu byōbu, 松林図 屏風) by Hasegawa Tōhaku, c. 1595
Riveted by Nature’s Beauty
Five Japanese Haiku Poems
By Matsuo Bashō, (1644-1694)
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Winter is here, and low
Droop the poor frail narcissus leaves
Under their weight of snow.
Come out! Come out with me!
‘Tis worth a tumble in the snow
The wondrous sight to see.
☙
The hail falls pitter pat,
And fiercely rattles down upon
The brave old pine-tree’s hat.
The year is nearly o’er,
And it will do me good to see
The plums in bloom once more.
☙
The year draws to its end;
Abundant joy and happiness
To each and every friend.
Matsuo Bashō, (松尾 芭蕉) was born Matsuo Kinsaku, (松尾 金作) and was known as Matsuo Chūemon Munefusa, (松尾 忠右衛門 宗房). in the 17th century. He was the most famous poet of Japan’s Edo period and the founding master of haiku, three-lined verses of seventeen syllables arranged in lines of five, seven, five.
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