Moon seen through the cherry blossoms

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Bright Moon In The East

Ryokan 1758-1831 Bright moon rises in the east, In the tower I pace back and forth. I think of my love, but can't see her, Tears fall mostening my clothes.

Dōngfāng Mińgyuè Chū

Liāngkuān 1758-1831 Dōngfāng mońgyuè chū, Lóushàng zhèng pánghuáng. Sī měirén bùjiàn, Lèixià zhān yīshang.

Translator:

Dongbo 東波

Notes: Can this be Ryokan the devote Buddhist!! or are we to read it as a love of Buddhist emptiness? I like contradictions! There is a story: When Ryokan was 70 and nearing the end of his life, he met a young nun and poet named Teishin. Though Teishin was only 28, they fell in love. They exchanged several beautiful love poems.

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