Dance of the Dust on the Rafters

by David Jenkins

These folk song, amongst the oldest in Japan, originated in the street, with the common people. These songs resonate with spirit--lusty and devotional, they are visions of love and faith. Filled with... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0913089109
• ISBN13: 9780913089101
• Release Date: December 1989
• Publisher: White Pine Press (NY)
• Length: 145 Pages
• Weight: 0.45 lbs.

Customer Reviews

Poetry that works in English

This collection of Japanese folk poetry is translated into English in a manner that requires no explanatory notes or extensive introduction. A handful may require some knowledge of the religious context, one or two require a bit of geography but the rest are enjoyable English poetry independent of its Japanese origins. Expect the conciseness typical of Japanese poetry. Assume abundant nature imagery. Add a dash of humor and of romatic love. You now have a proper image of this poetry.Example: "Things that are especially fleet are / the falcon and the peregrine, / the great hawk/ flying from the hand/ of the hunter,/ waterfalls,/ bundles of firewood/ tumbling down the hill,/ and the answers/ to your prayers/ to the gods/ Sansho and Gosho."If you read Chinese and/or Japanese poetry, this is a must read.