Japanese Verse

Language is the most basic form of modern information exchange – therefore poetry can be seen as a form of information design. The Japanese have a magnificent tradition of information design through verse. Here are two examples – what does it tell you?

Can it be that the moon has changed?
Can it be that the spring
Is not the spring of old times?
Is it my body alone
That is just the same?
(Narihira in Ise Monogatari, p. 67)

In this world is there
One thing constant?
Yesterday’s depths
In Asuka River
Today are but shallows.
(Anonymous in Kokinshù, p.76)

Good morning to you.