African American Poetry: A Digital Anthology

Lewis Alexander, "Japanese Hokku Poems" (1927)

I am but a leaf
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! 


Published in Black Opals, Christmas 1927

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