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What are some of Ikkyu Sojun's most famous poems?

One of Ikkyu Sojun's most famous poems is "The Moon is Hiding," which reflects on the transient nature of life and the inevitability of death. The poem reads:

"The moon is hiding Behind the clouds tonight How fleeting this life Like a dream in the night"

This poem embodies the essence of Zen philosophy, emphasizing the impermanence of all things and the importance of living in the present moment.

Another well-known poem by Ikkyu Sojun is "The Sound of One Hand Clapping," which is a famous koan in Zen Buddhism. The poem reads:

"The sound of one hand clapping Is the sound of enlightenment No need for words or thoughts Just be present in this moment"

This poem encapsulates the idea of achieving enlightenment through direct experience and transcending the limitations of language and conceptual thinking.

Ikkyu Sojun was also known for his playful and often humorous poems, such as "A Blind Man at a Poetry Reading," which pokes fun at the pretentiousness of the literary world. The poem reads:

"A blind man at a poetry reading Asks, 'What color is the wind?' The poets fall silent Unable to answer him"

This poem challenges the idea of poetry as a means of intellectual expression and instead highlights the importance of direct experience and perception.

Another famous poem by Ikkyu Sojun is "The Wild and Empty Sky," which reflects on the vastness and emptiness of the universe and the smallness of human existence. The poem reads:

"The wild and empty sky A mirror of my mind No beginning or end Just this moment, just this"

This poem emphasizes the interconnectedness of all things and the unity of the self with the universe, a central concept in Zen Buddhism.

In conclusion, Ikkyu Sojun's poems are known for their simplicity, depth, and ability to capture the essence of Zen philosophy. Through his words, he invites readers to reflect on the impermanence of life, the power of direct experience, and the interconnectedness of all things. His poems continue to inspire and resonate with readers, making him one of the most celebrated Zen poets in history.