By the old temple

Short Poem Analysis

"By the old temple" (also known as "Sogi") is a haiku written by Matsuo Basho, one of the most renowned Japanese haiku poets. This haiku captures a profound moment of reflection and connection with nature. Despite its brevity, the poem carries a sense of depth and simplicity that is characteristic of Basho's work.

In just three lines, Basho manages to convey a scene that evokes a sense of timelessness and transience. The mention of the "old temple" suggests a historical and spiritual context, hinting at the passage of time and the impermanence of human creations.

The image of the "rice-plants" growing around the temple creates a vivid and vividly natural atmosphere. This juxtaposition of the old and the new, the man-made and the organic, highlights the interconnectedness of human life and the natural world.

The poem's focus on nature's presence and growth around the temple reflects the traditional Japanese reverence for the environment and the blending of the spiritual with the natural.

Basho's haiku often exemplify the concept of "karumi," a quality of simplicity and lightness that allows deeper meaning to emerge. "By the old temple" is a perfect example of this, where the poem's brevity and unadorned language allow the reader to appreciate the moment of connection with nature and history.

In summary, "By the old temple" is a classic haiku by Matsuo Basho that encapsulates the beauty of the natural world and the temporal nature of human existence. The poem's simple and elegant language invites readers to pause, reflect, and appreciate the interconnectedness of life, history, and nature.