Matsuo Basho
Matsuo Basho
Matsuo Bashō, born 松尾 金作, then Matsuo Chūemon Munefusa, was the most famous poet of the Edo period in Japan. During his lifetime, Bashō was recognized for his works in the collaborative haikai no renga form; today, after centuries of commentary, he is recognized as the greatest master of haiku. Matsuo Bashō's poetry is internationally renowned; and, in Japan, many of his poems are reproduced on monuments and traditional sites. Although Bashō is justifiably famous in the West for his...
NationalityJapanese
ProfessionPoet
CountryJapan
No matter where your interest lies, you will not be able to accomplish anything unless you bring your deepest devotion to it.
Operating superficially, the mind is random in its activity and stale in its insights and images. However, with practice and experience the mind is freed from the skull, and the fresh and new can appear as though for the first time. It
Every day is a journey, and the journey itself is home.
There is nothing you can see that is not a flower; there is nothing you can think that is not the moon.
Before enlightenment, chopping wood and carrying water. After enlightenment, chopping wood and carrying water.
Make the universe your companion, always bearing in mind the true nature of things-mountains and rivers, trees and grasses, and humanity-and enjoy the falling blossoms and the scattering leaves.
Real poetry, is to lead a beautiful life. To live poetry is better than to write it.
Do not seek to follow in the footsteps of the wise. Seek what they sought.