Lady Sanuki, “He is one that does not know” (Hyakunin Isshu #92)
by Frank Watson
Translation

Retired Emperor Nijo’s Attendant Sanuki, Lady Sanuki (1141-1217)


My sleeve

A rock of the open sea,

Unseen though tide is low:

For he is one that does not know

There is no time for it to dry



Original Japanese
Pronunciation


二条院讃岐
Nijo In no Sanuki


わが袖は
Waga sode wa
潮干に見えぬ
Shiohi ni mienu
沖の石の
Oki no ishi no
人こそしらね
Hito koso shirane
かはくまもなし
Kawaku ma mo nashi

Literal Notes

         

I/my/peace/calm sleeve as-for

[Low-tide or tide/salt-water/opportunity dry] see/hope/chances/idea not

[Okinoishi OR open-sea/rise-high-to-sky ’s rock/stone] ’s

Person that know not

[Thirsty/dry]  space/time/interval/moment also without/achieve/change


Wet sleeves are a symbol from sadness or a broken heart as they’re used to wipe off tears.

                  


All writings and translations are Copyright © by Frank Watson, also writing as "Blue Flute" (2011-2014).
Year: 
2012