So coming back after a few weeks absence it’s right in time for a Carpe Diem Special. I love those challenges. Today it’s this haiku by Masaoka Shiki:
in the coolness
of the empty sixth-month sky
the cuckoo’s cry
My association immediately goes to the possibility to foresee the next years destiny from the direction of the first cuckoo’s call.
södergök är dödergök,
västergök är bästergök
östergök är tröstergök
norrgök är sorggök
Meaning that call from south brings death, form west is best, from east brings consolation and from north sorrow.
Found a wonderful cuckoo woodblock print from Bairei.

cuckoo’s call from south
bitter truth from April sky
grasps his mother’s hand
~~
from the northern sky
revealing call from first cuckoo
he left forever
~~
April setting sun
cuckoo’s call from far away
lover’s kiss in joy
~~
cuckoo’s call from east
anemone in bloom
consolation
January 11, 2013
superb collection
I love how you did that, how you explained them and the responce you felt. The directions I love the most. Never thought of them that way. The south!?!? Very sad
Very nice…
Very creative and contemplative haiku ~ wonderful ~
(A Creative Harbor) aka ArtMuseDog and Carol ^_^
Awesome series you share here with us. I am glad to see you here again.
Well! I have been missing my favorite poet. Welcome back and I enjoyed all of the above.P
Hope you had a restful ‘break.’ This is a wonderful first post on your return. I love the mystery and legend in it!
SO great to have you back Bjorn…what a great set, special indeed. Thank you 🙂
Glorious return!
Four excellent cuckoo calls – thanks for the explanation – in your haiku.
🙂