Shinkichi Takahashi

Lucien Stryk and Takashi Ikemoto chose to conclude The Penguin Book of Zen Poetry with selections from the poetry of Shinkichi Takahashi. The concluding poem is jaunty in tone.

ABSENCE

Just say, 'He's out' —

back in

five billion years!

This ending poem reminds me of the beginning of an other, "SEA OF OBLIVION".

Future, past, the sea

of oblivion,

with present capsized

The representation of time present as a shipwreck resonates nicely with eons long cycles.

And so for day 629
02.09.2008