Tag Archives: streathamhill

The subtlety of the Japanese

I was talking to my haiku friend Sean, who now lives in Japan, and he told me that while Westerners think of the year in terms of four seasons, the Japanese recognise 26 seasonal changes. That requires a subtle eye and appreciation of nature.

He shared this haiku:

A spot of blood
In the tall camelia tree
First one to blossom

We also talked of foxes. There is a mange-afflicted cub who visits our garden. I found his sibling dead just weeks ago; as if asleep in a hollow under the tree. So I went to the vet in Sternhold Ave for advice. Met a very nice dog and snapped the ‘Banksy’ cat as I left. The vet had an understanding smile and promised to call later.
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