A few years ago, I happened upon a translation by David Sulz of the poet Miyazawa Kenji, and, as is often my wont, fiddled with the lines to come up with something in keeping with the spirit of the work, but formally structured, if not actually qualifying as an accurate translation. Recently, as the last two poems I've posted here might indicate, I have been busy reading The Tale of Genji, and sharing that experience with friends on social media. I had forgotten about this little thing, but, suddenly remembering and posting it, received a favorable response from friends—so why not share it more generally here on my blog, I thought. And here it is:
Loose Paraphrase from Miyazawa Kenji
Adapted from a translation by David Sulz
Be not defeated by the rain,
Nor let the wind your master prove;
Succumb not to the wintry plain
Nor sultry summer let one move.
Be strong in body, by desire
Unfettered, not enticed to anger;
Cultivate joy, instead of ire,
Feed others first, despite one's hunger:
In quiet equanimity
Put others first, count oneself last;
Observe and hear attentively,
The lessons garnered holding fast.
A thatch-roof house, in shade of pine
Upon the meadow nestled nice;
Some simple fare on which to dine,
Rice, miso, greens—let these suffice.
If to the East, a child lies sick,
Go forth and nurse his convalescence;
If to the West, crone derelict,
Relieve her burden with one's presence.
If to the South, one dying lies,
Let words of courage fear dispel;
If to the North, harsh contest vies,
The ways of tranquil spirit tell.
In times of drought, not be withheld
The tears of knowing sympathy;
In summer chill, concern not quelled,
Companion walk in empathy.
Aloof from the unknowing masses
Better dismissed than to succumb
To greatness deigned by ignorant classes:
So I should be, or would become.
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