The Hokku Or Epigram Versus Of Basho

by Matsuo Bashō

The Hokku Or Epigram Verses Of Basho by Charles F. Horne is a book that explores the works of Matsuo Basho, a renowned Japanese poet from the 17th century. The book delves into the art of hokku, which is a form of Japanese poetry that is characterized by its simplicity and focus on nature. Basho is considered to be one of the greatest hokku poets of all time, and this book provides an in-depth analysis of his works.The book is divided into several chapters, each focusing on a particular aspect of Basho's poetry. The author provides a detailed explanation of the hokku form and how it differs from other forms of Japanese poetry. He also discusses the role of nature in Basho's poetry and how he used it to convey deeper meanings.The book includes a selection of Basho's most famous hokku, along with English translations and commentary. The author analyzes each poem, providing insight into its meaning and the techniques used by Basho to create it. He also discusses the cultural and historical context in which the poems were written, providing readers with a deeper understanding of Basho's work.Overall, The Hokku Or Epigram Verses Of Basho is a comprehensive guide to the works of one of the greatest hokku poets of all time. It is a must-read for anyone interested in Japanese poetry, nature, or the art of writing.THIS 26 PAGE ARTICLE WAS EXTRACTED FROM THE Sacred Books and Early Literature of the Japan, by Charles F. Horne. To purchase the entire book, please order ISBN 0766100111.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.

28 pages, Paperback

First published December 1, 2005

About the author

Known Japanese poet Matsuo Basho composed haiku, infused with the spirit of Zen.

The renowned Matsuo Bashō (松尾 芭蕉) during his lifetime of the period of Edo worked in the collaborative haikai no renga form; people today recognize this most famous brief and clear master.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Matsuo_...

Reviews

[Vaishali · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautiful, though riddled with animal cruelty. Selected poems from the master Basho, a nobleman-turned-Buddhist monk. After his house burned down, he wandered Japan sharing and teaching his lovely haiku. Also features poetry from his pupils.

Favorites:
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"Nothing in a cicada's voice gives token of a speedy death."

"In the bright moonlight what appeared as flowers is a cotton field."

"A rainy day in June and yet the sunflower bends to the sun's course."

"For all my contriving here I am again at the end of the year with nothing but my strip of matting."

"Taking the cool at eve I do rejoice that I was born a man."

"I, New Year's Day, with a clear sky and conversation among the sparrows."

"Come, breeze. Lightly blow upon the flowers, bubbles in the wine."

"Behold the wild geese winding homeward, mingled with the pilgrim bands."

"Begged by a sorry mate, the cat intently gazes at the sky."

"Behold the leaf that sinks and clings below the water to a rock."

"Plum blossoms! Is it that the sap still courses through that single branch?"

"Weary perhaps of dolorous love, the cat has stolen a bit to eat."

"The nightingale, and at the gate, the unexpected bean curd vendor."