Torii Haiku: Profane to Sacred Life - A Literary Journey of Transformation

Unveiling the Essence of Torii Haiku

Step into the serene realm of "Torii Haiku: Profane to Sacred Life," a remarkable collection of haiku poetry that captures the essence of the sacred and the profane. Through vivid imagery and evocative language, renowned poet John Stevenson paints a poetic tapestry of life's sacred and mundane moments.

Torii Haiku: Profane to a Sacred Life

by Charles Baudelaire

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1349 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	96 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Item Weight	:	12.3 ounces

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Inspired by the iconic torii gates of Japan, which traditionally mark the entrance to sacred Shinto shrines, this book transports readers on a literary pilgrimage. Each haiku serves as a portal, inviting us to contemplate the profound within the ordinary and discover the sacred that often lies hidden in the profane.

The Sacred and Profane Intertwined

The poems in "Torii Haiku" offer a unique blend of the sacred and the profane. They explore themes of nature, rituals, spirituality, and transformation. Through haiku's brevity and minimalist form, Stevenson distills the essence of these experiences, capturing moments of transcendence amidst the everyday.

In one haiku, the reader is transported to a tranquil temple garden:

Temple garden's hush
Torii stands silent guardian
Sacredness unfolds

Another haiku delves into the profane realm of urban life:

City's neon glare
Torii gate, a beacon of light
Sacred amidst chaos

Nature as a Source of Transformation

Nature plays a pivotal role in "Torii Haiku." The natural world serves as a constant reminder of the interconnectedness of all things and the transformative power of the present moment.

In a haiku that captures the beauty of a blooming flower:

Cherry blossom blooms
A transient glimpse of beauty
Life's ephemeral dance

Another haiku evokes the serenity found in the vastness of the ocean:

Ocean's endless roar
Torii on distant island
A call to the unknown

A Poetic Journey of Transformation

"Torii Haiku: Profane to Sacred Life" is not simply a collection of poems; it is an invitation to a transformative journey. Through its profound insights and evocative imagery, this book awakens a deeper appreciation for the beauty and complexity of life.

Each haiku becomes a stepping stone on a path of self-discovery and spiritual evolution. As readers progress through the pages, they may find themselves contemplating their own experiences and seeking meaning in the mundane.

"Torii Haiku: Profane to Sacred Life" is a literary masterpiece that transcends the boundaries of poetry. It is a testament to the power of words to illuminate the interconnectedness of life and inspire a profound sense of awe and wonder. This book will undoubtedly appeal to lovers of haiku, Japanese culture, spirituality, and transformative literature.

About the Author

John Stevenson is an acclaimed poet, translator, and Zen practitioner. He has published several collections of haiku poetry, including "Mountain Haiku" and "Zen Haiku." Stevenson's work has been widely praised for its depth, clarity, and evocative language.