Ryokan Taigu was a Japanese Zen poet and hermit, known for his simple and profound poetry and his solitary lifestyle. However, it would be limiting to label him solely as a poet or a hermit, as he was much more than that. He was a complex and multifaceted individual who embodied both of these roles, but also transcended them.

As a poet, Ryokan was deeply influenced by the Zen tradition and its emphasis on living in the present moment. His poetry reflects this, with its focus on nature, impermanence, and the beauty of simplicity. He often used simple and everyday language to convey profound insights, making his poetry accessible to all. His poems were not just words on paper, but reflections of his own spiritual journey and understanding of the world around him.

However, Ryokan was not just a poet who wrote in isolation. He was also a hermit, living a simple and solitary life in a small hut in the mountains. He spent most of his days meditating, writing, and tending to his garden. He embraced a minimalist lifestyle, owning only a few possessions and living off the land. His hermitage was a place of peace and tranquility, where he could fully immerse himself in his spiritual practice and connect with nature.

But Ryokan's life as a hermit was not one of complete isolation. He often welcomed visitors to his hut, offering them tea and conversation. He also traveled to nearby villages, sharing his wisdom and poetry with the local people. Despite his solitary lifestyle, he maintained a strong connection with the world around him and the people in it.

In essence, Ryokan was both a poet and a hermit, but he was also much more than that. He was a spiritual seeker, a teacher, and a compassionate human being. He embodied the ideals of Zen, living a simple and mindful life, while also sharing his wisdom and insights with others. So, while it is true that Ryokan was a poet and a hermit, it would be unfair to limit him to these labels. He was a unique and extraordinary individual who defied categorization.