A Zen poem is nothing other than an expression of the enlightened mind ahandful of simple words that disappear beneath the moment of insight to whichit bears wi... » 

A Zen poem is nothing other than an expression of the enlightened mind ahandful of simple words that disappear beneath the moment of insight to whichit bears witness. Poetry has been an essential aid to Zen Buddhist practicefrom the dawn of Zen8212and Zen has also had a profound influence on thesecular poetry of the countries in which it has flourished. Here two ofAmerica8217s most renowned poets and translators provide an overview of Zenpoetry from China and Japan in all its rich variety from the earliest days tothe twentieth century. Included are works by Lao Tzu Han Shan Li Po DogenKigen Saigyo Basho Chiao Jan Yuan Mei Ryokan and many others. Hamill andSeaton provide illuminating introductions to the Chinese and Japanese sectionsthat set the poets and their work in historical and philosophical context.Short biographies of the poets are also included. «