Matsuo Basho (1644 – 1694) was born as Matsuo Kinsako during the early Edo period in Japan. The name Basho came from a banana tree (basho-an) in his garden. During his lifetime, Basho was recognised for his work in a poetic form that was precursor to haiku. Over the course of time, Basho became recognised as an unparalleled master of the haiku.
His work is internationally renowned, and his poems are reproduced at many historical sites in Japan, now termed as Basho Haikus.
Basho Haiku poems about spring
Let’s read some of his verses. The ones below were written with the theme spring in mind. I have picked these (from Gary Gauthier’s book) since the season is just around the corner. So, sit back and enjoy!
Spring is coming soon! The setting is right for it: a plum tree, the moon. *** Yes, spring has come: this morning a nameless hill is shrouded in mist. *** A driving spring rain gliding, wending through the trees speaks in little drops *** The temple bell stops. But the sound keeps coming out of the flowers. *** From all directions, winds bring petals of cherry into the mighty lake. *** How I long to see in blossoms of breaking dawn the face of a god. *** Bush clover blossoms wave and shake to spill not one drop of dew. *** In just three months' time cherry blossoms cede the way to glorious trunks. *** In this warm spring rain, little leaves are sprouting from the eggplant seed. *** Spring is breaking through, the morning mist tells the truth. What mountain is that? *** Wet with morning dew this melon splotched with mud, looks especially cool. *** He drinks morning tea; the monk is at peace with all. Chrysanthemums bloom. *** I followed the bird until he was lost at sea: hope finds small island. *** I'd like to drape the dust of this world in droplets of dew. *** Spring morning marvel: lovely nameless little hill on a sea of mist. ***
As you can see, Basho offers a perfect literary treat for every season.
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