
turbulent upstream -
the river grows wide & deep,
becoming placid

turbulent upstream -
the river grows wide & deep,
becoming placid

boulders in a pond
look like rocky islands
in tranquil seas

clouds in the valley
look like water at the shore
on a gorgeous day


cliffside bamboo
becomes a sumi-e
when clouds roll in

Buddha statues’
fine robes & bejewelment;
what would he have worn?

a field of flames
dance in rows of butter lamps
in the dark temple

mountain magpie
flits from post to post,
skirting our camp

fringed by clouds,
the valley sat under blue —
but not for long

the cattle afar
turn sharp eyes upon me,
and i know they’re wild

rounding the temple,
heard: faintly squeaking wheels;
seen: not a soul