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Before the white chrysanthemum

Before the white chrysanthemum
the scissors hesitate
   a moment.


Translated by Robert Hass

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Comments

  • Lotus Of Lakshmi
    June 12, 2007

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    Ahhhhhh...I see it! A clear image of the life just about to be taken away. A very spiritual haiku this is because it speaks deeply on life and death in three simple lines. There is depth here, a deep resonance...who are we to take life of another? Life is a gift of God, the AllFather. The word 'white' makes me think that life is pure, divine...and death indicated by the scissors is cruel, evil and black.

    A powerful haiku, I'd say .

    Charishma

  • Ava Noire
    February 4, 2004
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    Hesitation before the hands that hold death sever the life to start the final decay. An excellent image. Makes one think.

  • philophant
    December 13, 2003
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    I agree with gemini...it's like the moment before death. Yosa Buson is giving me ideas, he inspires me. There's so much to be said in these few words.


  • rufina caraid Moderators member
    August 18, 2003
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    That moment of hesitation before the flower has it's umbilical chord cut, such beauty headed for premature death.
    Haiku fascinates me - this is lovely
    ~Von~