Page:Anthology of Japanese Literature.pdf/324

320 Muromachi Period

Even plants and trees Share in the bitter grief Of the ancient capital. Sōgi	Link: the beloved’s appearance shifts to the appearance of Kyoto before the disastrous Ōnin Rebellion which devastated the city (1467–1477).
The sad house where once I lived Is now but a remembrance. Sōchō	Destruction caused by the rebellion.
Let this keepsake Of a mother not long dead Bring consolation. Shōhaku	Death brought about by rebellion.
In the months and days to come I’ll see her perhaps in dreams. Sōgi	In time to come he will only be able to see his mother in dreams.
Sailing for China, I will take a final leave— Farewell to these shores. Sōchō	Even if he goes to China he will see her in his dreams.
Let us hearken to the Law We come not to this world again. Shōhaku	“These shores” interpreted as the mortal world, as opposed to the “other shores” of Paradise. The Buddhist Law.
Till we two could meet How frequently did love’s tears Fall and melt away. Sōgi	Meeting with Buddha in Paradise shifts to meeting a woman. Love. Autumn (tears, literally “dew”).
Ah, it was the autumn wind, Not she I was waiting for. Sōchō	Autumn. There is a pun imbedded meaning “weary of myself.”