Lewis Alexander, "Japanese Hokku Poems" (1927)
Clinging to the tree of life
In the world's garden.
* * * *
Last night I saw you,
A dream rose and I your stem;
Showing you the sun.
* * * *
They tear at my heart--
The days that knew no desire.
For they were wasted.
* * * *
Night shadows woo me.
I cling to the crescent moon
Like the evening star.
* * * *
The moon -- ah the moon
Draped in the velvet of night
Brocaded with stars.
* * * *
Do not bring lanterns
I say, "Darkness is supreme
Delight beyond words."
* * * *
Drops of silver blood
Are falling from the sky's heart.
All the world has woe.
* * * *
O night of Shadows
Seal my lips with your magic
Of silent beauty!