This treasure was discovered in a bamboo thicket --
I washed the bowl in a spring and then mended it.
After morning meditation, I take my gruel in it;
At night, it serves me soup or rice.
Cracked, worn, weather-beaten, and misshapen
But still of noble stock!
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Cracked, worn, weather-beaten, and misshapen
But still of noble stock!
The bowl is noble because it has a purpose, it provides and enriches his life whereas an expensive, pretty vase on the shelf has no real use. -
From guest Piper (contact)
This magnificent "fool" excels at expressing simple truths simply. It's the reverberations of these truths that knock me off my feet. They point to words to live by -- in this case: 1. With a little effort you can have what you need. 2. A king in rags is still a king. I like quietly mulling his poems, then letting them shake out into my life. Excessive interpretation always seems to fall short. The mark of good poetry: in discussing these words, words fail. -
Very wise words and very true, it was discarded by someone else and found by someone who found use for it. I enjoyed reading this fine poem.
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I don't think my mother would have it in the house!
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What is that old flea market saying, "One man's trash is another man's treasure?"
I suppose it speaks of not wasting, or of finding value in something thought to be past usefulness, finding value in simple things or even saying something about looks being deceiving...or just about being cheap.
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I have found many treasures hidden away in resale shops. It is too bad we do not place more value on things rather then discard them for what ever reason. This is very lovely poem that give us all pause to re think about what we throw away. . Thank you..
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timeless ___
I wonder? ____ what with our fascination with vapid celebrities and fashionistas, will we ever take pride in the real things. -
Impressive simplicity. The poem achieves an effect of depth which many strive for but few achieve.
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From guest Foo (contact)
It's refreshing that the poet finds such value in function and simplicity, rather than in form or fashion. He speaks the truth. -
nearly a year later and still I love this poem. I'm only sorry others haven't found in it what I have.
It teaches us to look past first impressions and to look deeper to see what treasure we can find.
So profound.
Von -
this might be said of a lot of people I've met over the years. A little rough on the outside but smooth as silk on the inside.
Von
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