The Kanshi Poems Of Taigu Rykan Taigu Rykan Kanshish by Taigu Ryokan and translated by Larry Smith

This is poetry from Japan.

The Kanshi Poems Of Taigu Rykan Taigu Rykan Kanshish by Taigu Ryokan translated by Larry Smith is published by Bottom Dog Press. This is a Book originally written in Japanese. This was published in 2009.0 and has the ISBN of 9.781933964256E12.

The Kanshi Poems Of Taigu Ryokan, translated by Larry Smith, introduces English readers to Ryōkan’s Chinese-style poems, a crucial part of his literary and spiritual practice. Ryōkan is beloved as a Zen monk-poet, often associated with simplicity, humility, children, begging, calligraphy, and a life outside worldly ambition. Kanshi adds another layer: Japanese poetry written in classical Chinese forms, already crossing literary systems before English translation begins. I would read this book for its quietness and discipline. These poems are not loud about wisdom. They let poverty, weather, solitude, play, and spiritual practice gather in small measures. Translation here opens not just a language, but a layered tradition in which Japanese, Chinese, Buddhist, and poetic inheritances meet.

If you’d like to see international poetry continue and gain traction, consider requesting this work from your local library, or purchasing it from places like Open Books (a poetry only bookstore), Asterism Books (an independent press distributor), or bookshop.org to connect you with your local bookstores.

Check out more of the always in-progress translated poetry index here.