Part II Memory and Forgetting
I have forgotten how many times he kissed me,
But I cannot forget
A swaying branch—a leaf that fell
To earth.
Pillar-Print, Masonobu
He stands irresolute
Cloaking the light of his lantern.
Tonight he will either find new love or a sword-thrust,
But his soul is troubled with ghosts of old regret.
Like vines with crimson flowers
They climb
Upwards
Into his heart.