Page:A History of Japanese Literature (Aston).djvu/60

44 Talk of jewels Which shine by night! Can they give so much pleasure As drinking saké To drive away one's care?"

Many are the ways Of this world's pleasures; But none to my mind Is like that of getting mellow, Even to tears."

So long as in this world I have my pleasure, In the future existence What care I though I become An insect or a bird?"

Spring is a more favourite subject. The following are by various authors:—

On the plum blossoms Thick fell the snow; I wished to gather some To show to thee, But it melted in my hands."

The plum blossoms Had already been scattered, But notwithstanding The white snow Has fallen deep in the garden."

Among the hills The snow still lies— But the willows Where the torrents rush together Are in full bud."

O thou willow That I see every morn, Hasten to become a thick grove Whereto the nightingale May resort and sing."