Sky Above, Great Wind: The Life and Poetry of Zen Master Ryokan

Kaz Tanahashi, the author and translator of this new book on Ryokan, was my calligraphy instructor and his inclusion of examples and discussion of Ryokan's calligraphy makes the book especially worthwhile. I already own two of John Steven's translations of Ryokan and was curious to examine this far more extensive book. Before even reading the poems, I studied the calligraphy. The brush stroke reveals the artist, the poet. The lightness, the thinness, the flowing together hint about the style of poetry. It is so different than Korean thick, strong, confident calligraphy and the refined, scholarly, and carefully stylized Chinese lines. Ryokan dances freely on tip toes. Leaving the Zen monastery after completing training and living alone near temples in small huts, he became independent from rules and norms, yet lived his practice in poverty, relishing the simplicity of the moment of each natural event. His poetry reflects this approach to life. He famously was known to entertain children, as he himself was much a child with 'beginner's mind.' A lonely hermit who loved company, he late in life developed a teacher-student romantic relationship with the much younger nun Teishin, and we are glad for that comfort as he died. After the poems, Tanahaski presents a series of anecdotes and then a thorough analysis of Ryokan's various poetic forms--haiku, waka, and kanshi. This fine book gives the reader a deeper impression of the poet and Zen practitioner. It inspires and motivates. Ryokan reminds us to awake from our dream.

it isn't possible to have too many books of ryokan's poetry. i'd already purchased two other books of his poems. this one is a wonderful addition. the translations are fresh and there is much biographical material. notes at the end are helpful in understanding some of the references in ryokan's poetry. this book is now a constant bedside companion. it is so calming to read one of his poems before i go to sleep. he always gives me something to think about and his gentle spirit reaches out through this lovely book.

This is a great translation of a true Zen Master’s work — his “unconventional” life is an inspiration.

Sky Above, Great Wind: The Life and Poetry of Zen Master Ryokan introduction and translation by Kazuaki Tanahashi is a real blessing. To have Kazuaki talk about the calligraphy, one Zen artist on another, is most helpful. And his translations have the easy flare of what I've always sensed about Ryokan. He has selected some of the best poems and provides a guide for reading them, never stooping to explain them. The book includes some of the best anecdotes on this renegade Zen monk as well as notes on his form. Anyone interested in Zen writing should add this to their collection. "Who says my poems are poems?" asks Ryokan, and Kazuaki answers him 200 years later.flag The Kanshi Poems of Taigu Ryokan (Laughing Buddha Series) (English, Chinese and Japanese Edition)

I am so happy and so grateful for this outstanding collection of prose, poems and stories. I have felt a closeness to Ryokan for 40 years or so, and have had to settle for just a few books in English. One in particular, which I will not name out of respect, seemed to almost exclusively focus on the sadder more melancholy poems, but in this brilliant translation by Kazuaki Tanahashi we find a much more well rounded presentation of Ryokan; his sacredness, his Zen mind, his outlandish humor,his irreverence,his lonely moments and his searing insight.I find myself deeply moved by this much bigger view of the Great Fool. I wish I could drink sake' with him and play hide and seek with the village children. Ryokan is a great inspiration for me. Endless bows to both Ryokan and Mr. Tanahashi.

A nice book to understand Ryokan and his writings

Being a meditator and a member of a Zen group I was interested to read some of the history of this often quoted man.The book seemed little short but for me it captured the feel of the time he was alive and told of his wisdom and failings in equal measure..Reading those poems of his loneliness and love was profoundly moving.I just wish there was more of it.

Probably more has been written about Ryokan than any other Japanese poet. Perhaps because he is the embodyment of the spirit of true freedom. I have read many accounts of his life, and this one gives new insights and breathes life into a whole enlightenment that I can only occasionally visit, at times when I least expect it. Sit with Ryokan in his simple hut, grousing about the cold, giving hospitality to the moon in his window. You will be happy that you did.

There are no footnotes to the poems, making them hard understand. Also the translations seem a little flat, when compared to the translator's detailed explantions of a couple of poems. So these may not be doing Ryoken justice?

Beautiful.

A brilliant book for the haiku lover. Amusing and informative.

The writer was a very creative and warm person. The poems are so special and they really touch our hearts.

genius