#Storm hokusai

[thekimonogallery]

Storm below Mount Fuji (Sanka no haku u), from the series Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji (Fugaku sanjūrokkei),Katsushika Hokusai

[japaneseaesthetics]

Katsushika Hokusai, Storm in the Mountains

[fleetwoodmacarthistory]

The Great Wave Off Kanagawa by Katsushika Hokusai // "Storms" by Fleetwood Mac

[idkwhatimdoingtf]

TMNT Stuff!!!!

BASICALLYYYY i made an AU off of someone else's AU lmao, @idiot-mushroom Teenage Turtle Ninja Mutants AU to be exact! (GO CHECK IT OUT its soo supa dupa cool and fun and lovingly drawn!!!!) *read more so i dont clog up ppl's dash :]]*

Its unoriginal ik but i got inspired and it'll become its own thing pretty quickly. Imma call it... Teenage Ninja Turtle Yokai AU!! its a 'What If Draxum Took All The Turtles!' Again, not the NEWEST thing but imma do it anyway!!! Too shy to show art js yet (and i have no art @ all-) so take these facts!!

DRAXUM-He/Him-Gay-37

•Kinder and nicer than Canon+TTNM Draxum :] (not that TTNM Drax is bad, TNTY is js WAYYY more protective+overbearing)

•Does NOT let them go outside the Hidden City, told them places beyond the City dont exist

•Talks to Big Mama more, she babysits when Draxy-poo has work to do :]] (btdubs she's the best babysitter+gramma forever and EVER!!)

•Doesnt talk abt Splinter/Yoshi AT ALL. When the turts ask abt him (cuz Drax put up pics of him and Yoshi while still human) he js calls him "Someone I Miss.."

•Still loves Yoshi lots, sometimes he caves and sneaks to NYC to try and visit but he can never seem to find him..

•Trains the turtles the moment their powers start to show, so they can control them WAYYY better now xp

HOKUSAI (aka Leonardo)-He/Him-Gay-15

2nd Youngest

•No real leaders of the group, so he has no role besides being a good bro X]

•Hangs w/his friends a lot, usually out of the house

•Wants to explore soooo bad, 3rd to truly believe there's more beyond the Hidden City

•Not rlly a bully but makes lil pranks+teases his bros lots XP

•Trains his power w/Chiho lots, rlly dedicated to it

•Will throw his life on the line for his fam, maybe not SACRIFICE but get a good hit

•Tends to break the rules a bit, usually comes home to a lecture ready and waiting for him from Draxum lol

CHIHO (aka Raphael)-She/He-Queer-16

Oldest

•Listens to Drax lots, not too big on rule breaking

•Big ol sweetipie, gives the best hugs trust🙏🏽

•Trains her power the most due to it being seen as harmful in his eyes (she hates to hurt accidently ppl (ुŏ̥̥ŏ̥̥) )

•WILL in fact stop the others from sneaking out (atleast not w/o him-) but Hokusai is js a bit too slick for her tastes... (they'll spar abt it l8r)

•Loves her home and his fam, doesnt rlly want anything more.. thinks abt it tho, js a little.. 4th/last to believe there's more beyond the city

•Used to put lil plushies or marshmellows on her shell in order to not scratch nobody or her bros, only rlly does that when going out now

YAYOI (aka Michealangelo)-Any prns-Queer-13

Youngest

•Loves roam around and spraypaint the walls of the Hidden City

•Usually goes out w/Hokusai if not messing around w/a new hobby they discovered

•WILL treat his fam like royalty when upset (physically or mentally), this boy will bake up a STORM for his ppl💪🏽💯🥶

•Loves Drax lots, rlly looks up to and trusts him (∩_∩)

•Goes under the alias 'c0w@bUNg@' on social media (which is ran by Takashi)

•Loves meeting new ppl and making bonds

•1st to believe there's more beyond the City, truly rlly wants to leave and see for herself

•Uses its powers for everything but fighting lmao, will make a swing outta chains

TAKASHI (aka Donnatello)-They/Them-AroAce-15

2nd Oldest*

*Chiho's twin

•Knows a bunch of yokai and Hidden City history you'd think they were there for it all

•Relies on tech to make bonds, thinks no1 will like em if they're js a turtle kid☹️😔

•2nd closest to Drax due to similarity in work (Alchemy/Science+Inventing/Tech. Also Yayoi is the closest to Drax)

•Only rlly goes out for materials to build, after that they are in DESPERATE need to touch grass😞

•Has a bunch of anime related stuff Drax would bring for them (every1 gets human gifts but Takashi has the most due to watching+observing human life most and being more interested in humans than other places)

•Knows humans exist, js not where, this leads them to being the 2nd to believe there's more beyond the Hidden City. Claims its cuz "nO tHeOrIeS cAn Be LeFt UnQuEsTiOnEd!🤓👆🏽" but we all know its cuz they wanna get more 'Mob Psycho 100' merch

And thats abt it!!! I'll prolly add to this and make more for the other characters but other than that, this is all i got rn! Hope this AU does good and you all enjoy it!! Again please check out @idiot-mushroom for his TMNT AU that heavily inspired this one (๑•ᴗ•๑)♡ love ya, bye!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[mp327t]

Today is International Haiku Poetry Day.

As such, I would like to share one of my favorite haikus.

—----------------------------------------------—

I have seen the blooming of wildflowers all over town and along streets and highways. This is a result of rains brought by the string of winter storms after years of drought. In other parts, superblooms are happening.

Hundreds of seeds that have laid dormant for so long, may finally sprout. The sights are beautiful.

...

California is beautiful.

...

:)

—----------------------------------------------—

Haiku poem by Katsushika Hokusai

書いてみたり消したり果はけしの花 / original ver. In hiragana/japanese

かいてみたりけしたりはてはけしのはな / original ver. in hiragana/japanese

Translation

I write, erase, rewrite

Erase again, and then

A poppy blooms.

[mangaextreme]

Why Is It Called Manga?

Welcome to the colorful world of Manga! If you've ever been captivated by the vibrant artwork and unique storytelling found in Japanese comics, then you're in for a treat. In this blog post, we'll delve into the fascinating origins of Manga, explore its different genres and styles, and answer the burning question: why is it called Manga? So grab your reading glasses and get ready to immerse yourself in this captivating art form that has taken the world by storm. Let's dive right in!

What is Manga?

Manga, pronounced "mahng-gah," refers to the Japanese art form of creating comic books and graphic novels. What sets Manga apart from other comic styles is its distinctive visual storytelling techniques and cultural influences. In Manga, the artwork often portrays exaggerated facial expressions, dynamic action scenes, and intricate details that bring characters to life on the page. The panels are arranged in a specific reading order that guides the reader's eye across each page, enhancing the flow of the story.

visit the website One of the unique aspects of Manga is its diverse range of genres and subject matter. Whether you're into fantasy adventures filled with epic battles or heartfelt romance stories that tug at your heartstrings, there's a Manga for everyone. From slice-of-life tales set in everyday Japan to sprawling science fiction epics set in futuristic worlds – there truly is no shortage of variety when it comes to this captivating medium.

The History of Manga

The history of manga is a fascinating journey that dates back centuries. While many people may associate manga with its modern form, it actually has roots in ancient Japan. The earliest examples of what we now call manga can be traced back to the 12th century, where artists would paint scrolls depicting stories and narratives. These early forms of manga were not widely accessible and were mainly enjoyed by the aristocracy. However, as printing technology advanced in the 17th century, woodblock prints became a popular medium for storytelling. These prints allowed for mass production and distribution, making manga more accessible to a wider audience. In the late 19th century, Japanese artist Katsushika Hokusai played a significant role in shaping the art form further. His iconic woodblock print series "Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji" showcased his distinct style and narrative techniques which inspired future generations of artists.

The Different Types of Manga

The world of Manga is incredibly diverse, with numerous types and genres to cater to different interests and preferences. From action-packed adventures to heartwarming romances, there is truly something for everyone within the vast realm of Manga. One popular type of Manga is Shonen, which targets a young male audience. These stories often revolve around epic battles, supernatural powers, and courageous heroes fighting against formidable villains. Examples include "Dragon Ball," "Naruto," and "One Piece." On the other hand, Shojo Manga caters to teenage girls and focuses more on romance, friendships, and personal growth. These stories typically feature strong female protagonists navigating love triangles or finding their true selves in a vividly depicted world. Beloved series like "Sailor Moon," "Fruits Basket," and "Cardcaptor Sakura" fall into this category.

Why Is It Called Manga?

Why is it called manga? The name itself may sound mysterious and intriguing, but there's actually a simple explanation behind it. Manga is a Japanese term that refers to both comics and cartooning. It originated from two Chinese characters - "man" meaning whimsical or impromptu, and "ga" meaning pictures. The term "manga" was first coined by the artist Katsushika Hokusai in the early 19th century when he published his sketchbooks titled "Hokusai Manga." These sketchbooks consisted of various drawings depicting everyday life, nature, and mythical creatures. Hokusai's use of the word caught on in Japan as a way to describe this unique art form. Manga has evolved over time to encompass a wide range of genres and styles. There are manga for all age groups and interests - from action-packed shonen manga aimed at young boys, to romantic shojo manga targeted towards teenage girls.

How to Read Manga

Reading manga is an enjoyable and immersive experience that transports readers into vibrant worlds of storytelling. Whether you're new to manga or a seasoned fan, here are some tips on how to read it effectively. Start by selecting a genre or theme that interests you. Manga covers a wide range of genres including action, romance, fantasy, science fiction, and more. By choosing a genre that resonates with your preferences, you'll be more engaged in the story. Next, familiarize yourself with the reading format. Manga is typically read from right to left and from top to bottom. This may feel unusual at first if you're accustomed to reading books from left to right but soon becomes second nature.

Where to Find Manga

If you're a fan of manga, you're probably always on the hunt for new titles to read. But where can you find manga? Don't worry, there are plenty of options out there! One popular place to find manga is at your local bookstore or comic shop. Many bookstores have dedicated sections just for manga, making it easy to browse and discover new series. You can also ask the staff for recommendations if you're not sure where to start. Another great option is online retailers. Websites like Amazon and Barnes & Noble offer a wide selection of physical copies of manga that can be shipped right to your door. They often have discounted prices and special deals, so keep an eye out for those.

Conclusion

The term "manga" has a rich history and cultural significance in Japan. It refers to a unique style of comic books and graphic novels that have captivated readers worldwide. From its early origins in ancient scrolls to the modern-day digital platforms, manga has evolved and grown into a global phenomenon. The name "manga" itself may not have an exact origin story, but it is believed to be derived from two Japanese words: "man," meaning whimsical or careless, and "ga," meaning pictures or drawings. This combination perfectly encapsulates the essence of manga as a medium that allows for creative expression with captivating visuals. Whether you're a fan already or just starting your journey into the world of manga, there are countless genres and styles to explore. From action-packed shonen series to heartwarming slice-of-life stories, there's something for everyone. The popularity of manga extends far beyond Japan, with fans around the world eagerly awaiting new releases and adaptations.

[hunty627]

Here are even more episode titles for Little Einsteins: New Missions.

The ultimate great sky race! Rocket was gonna compete in the biggest great sky race ever and try and win the bouncy castle trophy, but Big Jet is gonna cheat. Will Rocket be a good sport and defend his titles as champion? Only time will tell. Featuring the art “A shower below the summit” by Katsushika Hokusai and the music “Flight of the bumblebee” by Nikolay Rimsky-Korsakov.

Star struck. The team and I were having a campout in June’s backyard. We were using June’s telescope to look at the stars. When suddenly, a star fell from the sky and got stuck to my shirt. Star explained she was going to have a playdate on Pluto with Saturn’s ring, music robot and the Meeps. So, we volunteered to help star get back to outer space. Can we get her home safely? Find out next time. Featuring the art “The Tree of Life” by Gustav Klimt & the music “Symphony Number 9 in E Minor: From the New World, Largo” by Antonin Dvorak.

Leo’s birthday lasagna. It was Leo’s birthday. Everyone was celebrating, and I suggested we should have marshmallow lasagna. So, I went to collect the ingredients and make it while everyone has fun at the party. I didn’t mind missing out on some of the fun, I promised Leo I wouldn’t let him down. Will I be able to make the marshmallow lasagna for him? Find out soon. Featuring the art “Haystacks at the End of Summer, Morning Effect” by Claude Monet and the music “Rondeau” by Jean-Joseph Mouret.

Kids to the rescue! Rocket and Big Jet were going to be racing in an all out grudge match in the all around the USA race. But Big Jet cheated by blowing a bubble and sending Rocket away to a cave! Can Leo, Annie, Quincy and June rescue him before the race starts? Only time will tell. Featuring the art “Tiger in a tropical storm” and “the merry jesters” by Henri Rousseau and the music “Peer Gynt suite number 1: In the hall of the mountain king” by Edvard Grieg.

Annie’s kitty catastrophe! The Little Einsteins and I were watching cute cat videos on the web when suddenly Big Jet flew in. And he had teamed up with the same witch from “brothers and sisters to the rescue” and she used her wand to change Annie into a cat! Can we get the wand and change Annie back into a girl? Only time will tell. Featuring the art “On the River Greta” by John Atkinson Grimshaw and the German folk art and the music “Symphony number 5″ by Ludwig von Beethoven.

Annie and August’s musical playdate. Annie has planned a musical playdate with her favorite mermaid friend, August. But she couldn’t find her. August was looking for Annie too. Will Annie rely on her big brother and her friends to help her find August? Featuring the music “the can can” by Jacques Offenbach.

The around the world Easter egg hunt. The Little Einsteins were celebrating Easter and they were going to go on an Easter egg hunt all around the world. They were determined to fill Rocket’s Easter basket all the way to the top. But they had to hurry or that sneaky Big Jet will try and eat all the eggs for himself! Will the team find all the eggs before Big Jet does? Find out soon. Featuring the art “Fabergé Eggs” and the music “Aida” by Giuseppe Verdi.

The broken buttons. Rocket was taking a nap when Dee Dee snuck on board him while he was sleeping. When she saw the buttons on his dashboard, she couldn’t resist herself and began to playfully push them. Rocket woke with a start and felt himself changing like crazy! Then all of a sudden…some of Rocket’s buttons broke off! The bug buttons, the animal buttons, the construction vehicle buttons, the fire rescue buttons, the accelerando button, the high and low buttons, the clapper catcher button, the submarine button, the pogo bouncer button, the train button, the flying button, and even the super fast button! Ellie promised to help Rocket find all his missing buttons. Will she find them all in time so Rocket can get back to doing all the things he loves to do? Only time will tell.

The lonely vampire girl. The team was going a Halloween carnival and they were going trick or treating to famous buildings. But I had gotten word that there vampire girl who was named Flandre Scarlet. She sounded scary, but she’s actually very nice. She’s got colorful wings and she’s really cute too. But she’s also rather lonely. Nobody wanted to play with her and most of her toys broke. Will the team cheer her up by taking her trick or treating and going to the Halloween carnival? Find out next time. Featuring the art “The scream” by Edvard Munch and music “Peer Gynt suite number 1: in the hall of the mountain king” by Edvard Grieg.

The missing marshmallows! The team was going camping. We were going to roast marshmallows and make s’mores to eat for our campout dessert, when Big Jet swooped in and took my bag of marshmallows! He was gonna all of the marshmallows for himself? Can the Little Einsteins save the marshmallows in time before Big Jet eats them? Find out soon.

Annie, Amanda and the ice fairy. The Little Einsteins were playing in the snow, when Amanda & Annie saw a cute ice fairy named Cirno. She has the power to make snow and ice. When suddenly Big Jet and his cronies flew in and kidnapped Cirno! They were going to take her to the volcano known as Mount Vesuvius and melt her! Will the team rescue Cirno in time for the ice sculpture competition at the winter festival? Only time will tell.

Leo and the lost city. Leo was feeling sad because he lost his photo album, where he keeps all his pictures, even his baby pictures. He wanted to know where it is. Big Jet let him know he didn’t take it. Then the Little Einsteins met Dora and she told them that it’s at the lost city. Can they find it so Leo can be very happy again? And if they succeed, will Dora become an honorary team member? Only time will tell.

[k00285035]

KATSUSHIKA HOKUSAI

Was a Japanese ukiyo-e artist of the Edo period, active as a painter and print maker. He is best known for the woodblock print series Thirty-six views of Mount Fuji 🗻, which includes the iconic print ‘The Great Wave of Kanagawa’.

Katsushika Hokusai

‘The Great Wave of Kanagawa’ (1831)

Created in the late 1831 during the Edo period of Japanese history. The print depicts three boats moving through a storm-tossed sea, with a large wave forming a spiral in the centre and Mount Fuji in the background.

Another print called ‘kirifuri waterfall on Mount Kurokami in Shimotsuke province’ (1832-1833). This shows a falling mist waterfall on Mount Kurokami in Shimotsuke province, It is one of the most famous falls of the area. It descends about 100 feet in two steps, each about 33 feet wide and as it falls the water broken up by the craggy cliffs, spreads itself like a moving tapestry into many cascades, creating a mist that chills the air.

‘Kirifuri Waterfall on Mount Kurokami in Shimotsuke’ (1832-1833)

The fall is presented in an extreme close-up view as a bizarre pattern, the broken water then splashes into the pool beneath.

Really given the sense of flow in this print from the description given shows the journey and movement of this waterfall.

[melissa-art]

The Great Wave Off Kanagawa was done by a Japanese artist Hokusai

The painting represents 3 elements: the ocean during a storm, boats in the water, and mountain in the background

The painting uses woodblock printing which was very common during the Edo period 

The painter had to use two different types of blue: indigo and Prussian blue to achieve the blue contrast seen in the painting.

The painting showed a change happening in Japanese society at the time.

The first time I glanced at this painting I thought this really represents me because I grew up loving the water and how much it had a mind of its own. But looking at it now and knowing the true meaning of the painting it has shown me its perspective. Instead of it being calm or showing how the water acts, the underlying message of the painting is to convey how things change and do not stay the same way. So to answer the question, yes my view has changed on the painting and now seeing the art in a new light I feel that not only does it show change but also how things can happen in the blink of an eye that nothing is guaranteed to be how it was. 

Source:

Sources:https://www.metmuseum.org/about-the-met/conservation-and-scientific-research/conservation-stories/2020/hokusai-great-wave#:~:text=One%20print%20in%20the%20series,with%20Japanese%20art%20in%20general. https://www.widewalls.ch/magazine/japanese-wave-painting-hokusai

[kristenzkornerr]

T h e G r e a t W a v e O f f

Ekphrasis:

The wave looms, frozen in its fury, suspended in time. It's claws stretch high, curling downward as though eager to consume all beneath it. A crisp froth spills from it's grasp, scattering like shattered glass. Beneath it's towering shadow, the fragile boats drift, their smallness quiet defiance against the chaos above. Mount Fuji, distant and unmoving, observes the scene with calm indifference, a stoic anchor amidst the turmoil. The sky is mute, a pale gray that softens the drama yet heightens the tension. This is no ordinary storm, a clash between nature's might and human resilience. The wave isn't just water; it's power, unrelenting and merciless. Yet, there is beauty in its form, its curves like the stroke of a master calligrapher, precise yet alive with movement. It reminds me of exaggerated, dramatic waves often seen in anime, stylized yet capturing the essence of water's chaos and grace. Though tiny and fragile, the boats carry life's silent challengers to the storm, leaning into the chaos but refusing to sink.

Analysis:

I chose Katsushika Hokusai's "The Great Wave Off Kanagawa" because it reminded me of the waves in anime that are often larger than life and full of energy. The piece's bold style and its catch of nature's intensity drew me in as an anime lover. I saw the wave's height, fragile boats, and Mount Fuji's calm in the background. These elements strongly contrast chaos and serenity and show their differences. My prose shows the wave's destructive force and its delicate beauty. I drew attention to specific visual elements like the frothy spray and the boats' vulnerability, and I also mirrored Hokusai's attention to detail in my work. The stylized curves and dramatic movement in Hokusai's wave are similar to how anime depicts water as a fluid, alive, and almost a character in its own right. I reflect on how art transforms fear into beauty and inspires hope. The familiar aesthetic adds another layer of connection for me, and Hokusai's wave acts as a declaration of the human spirit's ability to undergo. My interpretation celebrates the harmony between fragility and strengths and acknowledges the modern influence of anime's visual storytelling: these elements work together to create a powerful narrative.

[anifakru]

Principles of Design

Unity & Variety

My personal understanding of unity is the harmony of an art piece. The view of calmness and a simple feeling.

Fruit Displayed on a Stand (c. 1881) by Gustave Caillebotte is an example of unity with shape and form.

Variety is more adding different shapes, size, and colors. Creating a diversity of these elements of variety.

Orchard in Blossom part of series Flowering Orchards (c.1888) Vincent Van Gogh showing variety with complementary colors (red and green) and jagged lines as the branches.

Balance (Symmetrical & Asymmetrical)

Oriental Poppies (c.1928) Georgia O'Keeffe displays symmetrical balance as both sides are nearly matching one another.

Asymmetrical Balance

Self-portrait with a model (c.1896) Anders Zorn shows asymmetrical balance with light tones on the bottom left side and dark tones in the middle/ top right corner. Also positioning himself as the focal point and the light tones coming off the models legs.

Emphasis & Subordination

The Swing also known as The happy Accidents of the Swing (c.1767) Jean-Honoré Fragonard, strongly shows emphasis has the lady on the swing is the main focal point and the strong contrast of darker colors behind her and the lighter colors in front of her. Along with the pink capturing the main focus.

(This is one of my favorite paintings I've ever discovered because of the colors and the level of detail and just the overall beauty of the painting)

Subordination

Landscape with the Fall of Icarus (c.1560) Pieter Bruegel the Elder shows subordination because we are first drawn to the man in red and then following the horse to the tree and onwards to the ocean and ship. You then notice legs disappearing into the water.

Directional Forces

The Storm of the Sea of Galilee (c.1633) Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn (otherwise known as Rembrant) is showing directional force by the line of the main post of the ship being the focal point and the ship being lifted up by a wave and into the light. The look of harsh wind with the water spraying back and the sail going against the win.

Repetition & Rhythm

An Homage to Monopink 1960 (c.2011) Takashi Murakami

Showing Repetition with the recurring visual elements of flowers with smiley faces on them.

Rhythm

The Great Wave of Kanagawa (c.1831) Hokusai

A very well known painting showing a great deal of rhythm with the wave hovering over 3 boats and the water behind them pulling them into the wave itself.

Scale & Proportion

David (c.1501-1504) Michlangelo

David represents scale by being 17ft tall. The first massive statue created out of Carrara marble. This is also prefect proportion because of the accuracy of human features.

[jonesbrianshining]

Brian Jones and "Storm below the top of Mount Fuji" (painting by Japanese artist Katsushika Hokusai)

© Gered Mankowitz

[breakfromwork]

January 2nd-February 1st, Washington

Thought I'd include this nice mother, daughter picture from January 3rd... you can see the resemblance!

I went to Seattle for a visit with Mike and Andy, where we enjoyed the Hokusai exhibit at the Seattle Art Museum, and of course food and drinks. Andy and I got a chance to walk Lincoln Park in West Seattle where we ran across this fairly recent addition near Coleman pool.

Gae and I made a run to Costco on the 11th, followed by the running of the dogs at the Sequim Dog Park... a very nice obstacle course was in the closed half of the park.

We had another dog outing to the Port Angeles Dog Park on the 15th, where Raina did her usual ball-crazed fetch and run.

We took her to Gae's groomer friend, Sonia's, for an inaugural cleaning using her recently installed Dog Wash Station. Raina was confused when I just left her there:-)

Gae's sister Stacy had some trouble with a foster dog that attacked her other dogs, and then her... ouch!

The couch given to us by our friends Daniel and Melissa works perfectly for Gae and the dogs, each with their own cushions.

Gae and I visited the Olympic Discovery Trail near Morse Creek to survey the damages from recent storms boosted by king tides. The trail back from the water was lovely, with the natural edge striping of moss.

The trail along the water was a different story. several feet of mud covered long sections of the asphalt trail, pushed from the soil and rock surge wall.

I loved this seaweed scrap along the trail with it's bright pink nodules.

Gae and I got out for our 37th anniversary to the always excellent Sabai Thai in Port Angeles. January 24

Ben and Rob sent this nice picture of their anniversary dinner outing shortly after ours. January 25

My high school buddy Steve was in town, and I had a visit to Seattle planned with my college buddies for the 26th. We did a double walk, first around Seward Park, then around Lincoln Park followed by lunch and beer. Friends that like to get out and about really are the most fun!

I volunteered with Streamkeepers to measure flow and turbidity on Lee's Creek, followed by Morse Creek using a doplar based measurement raft. Interesting and useful work:-)

Gae was up at the crack of dawn on the 31st to get this front yard picture... nice clouds!

[canadachronicles]

"I

The rutted roads are all like iron; skies

Are keen and brilliant; only the oak-leaves cling

In the bare woods, or the hardy bitter-sweet;

Drivers have put their sheepskin jackets on;

And all the ponds are sealed with sheeted ice

That rings with stroke of skate and hockey-stick,

Or in the twilight cracks with running whoop.

Bring in the logs of oak and hickory,

And make an ample blaze on the wide hearth.

Now is the time, with winter o'er the world,

For books and friends and yellow candle-light,

And timeless lingering by the settling fire.

While all the shuddering stars are keen with cold.

II

Out from the silent portal of the hours,

When frosts are come and all the hosts put on.

Their burnished gear to march across the night

And o'er a darkened earth in splendor shine,

Slowly above the world Orion wheels

His glittering square, while on the shadowy hill

And throbbing like a sea-light through the dusk,

Great Sirius rises in his flashing blue.

Lord of the winter night, august and pure,

Returning year on year untouched by time,

To hearten faith with thine unfaltering fire,

There are no hurts that beauty cannot ease,

No ills that love cannot at last repair,

In the victorious progress of the soul.

III

Russet and white and gray is the oak wood

In the great snow. Still from the North it comes,

Whispering, settling, sifting through the trees,

O'erloading branch and twig. The road is lost.

Clearing and meadow, stream and ice-bound pond

Are made once more a trackless wilderness

In the white hush where not a creature stirs;

And the pale sun is blotted from the sky.

In that strange twilight the lone traveller halts

To listen to the stealthy snowflakes fall.

And then far off toward the Stamford shore,

Where through the storm the coastwise liners go,

Faint and recurrent on the muffled air,

A foghorn booming through the Smother--hark!

IV

When the day changed and the mad wind died down,

The powdery drifts that all day long had blown

Across the meadows and the open fields,

Or whirled like diamond dust in the bright sun,

Settled to rest, and for a tranquil hour

The lengthening bluish shadows on the snow

Stole down the orchard slope, and a rose light

Flooded the earth with beauty and with peace.

Then in the west behind the cedars black

The sinking sun stained red the winter dusk

With sullen flare upon the snowy ridge,--

As in a masterpiece by Hokusai,

Where on a background gray, with flaming breath

A scarlet dragon dies in dusky gold."

--The Winter Scene, Bliss Carman (1929)

I did have my Winter Scene after all, I woke to a thick duvet of powdery snow the other day, and walked to the park to watch the sun rise and birds fly over the gorgeous landscape!

[mp327t]

Today is International Haiku Poetry Day – April 17, 2023.

I've been watching the blooming of so many wildflowers around town and along streets and highways. This is due to the heavy rainfall of the recent winter storms after years of drought.

A super bloom is occurring in several places. It's very beautiful.

...

California is very beautiful.

...

As such, I wish to share one of my favorite haikus. :)

—----------------------------------------------—

Haiku poem by Katsushika Hokusai

書いてみたり消したり果はけしの花 / original ver. In hiragana/japanese

かいてみたりけしたりはてはけしのはな / original ver. in hiragana/japanese

Translation

I write, erase, rewrite

Erase again, and then

A poppy blooms.

[warlockeye]

Inside my head is a restless ocean and there's a once-in-a-century storm coming through, making Hokusai waves