The First Person with Michael Judge

The First Person with Michael Judge

Pine Trees

After Shōrin-zu byōbu, ink on paper, by Hasegawa Tōhaku, circa 1595

Jul 22, 2025
∙ Paid
 Pine Trees

       After Shōrin-zu byōbu, ink on paper, 
        by Hasegawa Tōhaku, circa 1595


Nothing 
gilded —

no blossoms 
no brush

black needles
white mountain 

black trunk 
black branches

sand wind
snow stream

mist pebbles 
roots soil 

salt air 
memory —

swaying 
almost 

there
my son.

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