Basho's first snow on a bridge not finished
by Frank Watson
Basho wrote this one while living near a bridge being constructed in Fukugawa, Japan.


My translation


Bridge being built—

Above,

The first snow.


Original Japanese


初雪や懸けかかりたる橋の上


Pronunciation


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Hatsu yuki ya

Kake kakaritaru

Hashi no ue


Literal translation


First snow and

Erecting(1)

Bridge’s above


(1)  Many possible meanings for this, including hanging, hoisting, sitting, covering, catching, erecting, holding.


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