I dropped my head for a while, then found some words.
“Last nights’ rain leaked in and drenched my bookcase.”
17 – Reading the Record of Eihei Dogen by Ryokan
I dropped my head for a while, then found some words.
“Last nights’ rain leaked in and drenched my bookcase.”
I was wondering about these last few verses…
It seems odd that Ryokan would give the excuse “Last nights’ rain leaked in and drenched my bookcase.” when it was his own tears that caused the dampness.
I don’t fully understand why he wouldn’t be forthright about such a thing.
Is there a deeper meaning or metaphor behind these words, or is it poetic imagery that is lost on me?
Its good to read this poem broken up into daily postings, it seems to read much better, or maybe i just spend longer letting it soak in.
best wishes,
Miles
Thanks Miles. Like you I scratched my head at the ending of this poem. Bit of a koan there. And I’m still just sitting with it.
There was an incident while I was staying in Wales that placed me in a somewhat similar position. Perhaps I’ll write about that tomorrow.
I’m glad you found the postings over the past couple of weeks worked for you. Many thanks to Iain for minding shop while I was gone. It will take me a few days to adjust to being back in community again.