Nikko in March (1984-85)
Cold mist infiltrates
those delicate cedar tips
above the Torii.
Hill shrines of Nikko
winter still in white distance
barred behind grey trees.
Climb the stone steps, turn
to acknowledge the landscape
of your pilgrimage.
Carved panels colour
like bright spring flowers the courtyard;
snow flowers in corners.
A prayer bell intones,
bronze voice of meditation
whitening to silence.
Breaths offer incense
into the grey breath of sky:
many become one.
Copyright © Bernard Gilhooly - All Rights Reserved
those delicate cedar tips
above the Torii.
Hill shrines of Nikko
winter still in white distance
barred behind grey trees.
Climb the stone steps, turn
to acknowledge the landscape
of your pilgrimage.
Carved panels colour
like bright spring flowers the courtyard;
snow flowers in corners.
A prayer bell intones,
bronze voice of meditation
whitening to silence.
Breaths offer incense
into the grey breath of sky:
many become one.
Copyright © Bernard Gilhooly - All Rights Reserved