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On Love and Barley
Haiku of Basho
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See morePresents the poems that combine 'karumi', or lightness of touch, with the Zen ideal of oneness with creation and evoke the natural world - the cherry blossom, the leaping frog, the summer moon or the winter snow - suggesting the smallness of human life in comparison to the vastness and drama of nature.
Basho, one of the greatest of Japanese poets and the master of haiku, was also a Buddhist monk and a life-long traveller.
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Description
On Love and Barley by Matsuo Basho presents the work of one of the greatest Japanese poets, a master of haiku. Known not only for his literary genius, Basho was also a Buddhist monk and a lifelong traveller.
His poems embody 'karumi', or lightness of touch, and embrace the Zen ideal of oneness with creation. Each verse beautifully evokes aspects of the natural world, whether it be the cherry blossom, the leaping frog, the summer moon, or the winter snow, subtly highlighting the smallness of human life against the vastness and drama of nature.
Basho valued solitude and lived a life free from possessions. His haikus are reflections of an observant eye and a meditative mind, unfettered by materialism and deeply attuned to the beauty surrounding him.
Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?
On Love and Barley by Matsuo Basho is generally praised for its evocative haikus that celebrate nature and the transient beauty of life. Reviewers appreciate Basho's ability to convey deep emotion and philosophical insights with brevity and elegance, highlighting his significant influence on Japanese literature and poetry. The collection is often described as both inspiring and meditative, offering readers a contemplative experience.
Book Details
INFORMATION
ISBN: 9780140444599
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd
Format: Paperback / softback
Date Published: 29 August 1985
Country: United Kingdom
Imprint: Penguin Classics
Contributors:
- Translated by Lucien Stryk
Audience: General / adult
DIMENSIONS
Spine width: 5.0mm
Width: 130.0mm
Height: 197.0mm
Weight: 80g
Pages: 96
About the Author
Basho was born near Kyoto in 1644. A poet and diarist, he spent his youth as companion to the son of the local lord, and with him studied the writing of poetry. In 1667 he moved to Edo (now Tokyo) and continued to write verse. Eventually, he became a recluse. His writings are strongly influenced by the Zen sect of Buddhism. Lucien Stryk is a well-known translator.
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