The following selection of Japanese poems, or haiku all date from the Edo period (1603-1868). During this period, painters and poets were held in high regard and enjoyed the patronage of the wealthy elite. Tree peonies had an important role in classical Japanese art and aesthetics. As in China, when depicted in art, they often represented wealth and status. They could also be cast in a more sensual way, standing in paintings and poetry for female beauty and allure. However, peonies are not always used as metaphors, in some of these poems the flower itself is the muse.
An Introduction to Peonies in Japanese Poetry
August 6, 2013 by Cricket Hill Garden
Wow! You’ve made me fall in love with peonies all over again.
Thank you so much. This is lovely.
Debbi
Sent from my iPad
I have been painting the glory of peonies this past year or more. To visit go to creativebeing.com art studio. Thank you for the beautiful haiku & photos. Peonies will be out soon!
About 50 years ago my sister found a haiku I’ve never forgotten. “The kingdom of the ants lies underground, and a red peony stands at the doorway.” Sorry, I don’t know the poet’s name.
Love it. Thanks for sharing.