Hokku and Self-Inscription for 'Omodaka' – One Hanging Scroll, by Yosa Buson, Hōreki 8 to early Meiwa (1758–66), Collection of Yamadera Basho Memorial Museum
Eighth day of Fumizuki
Does the omodaka bridge / Drag the Milky Way? / Buson (kaō)
[Explanation]
A work that clearly shows the characteristics of Buson's brushwork from the Hōreki to early Meiwa periods.
Omodaka (arrowhead) is a perennial plant that grows in paddy fields. The shadow of the omodaka by the pond seemed like a bridge crossing the Milky Way reflected on the water during last night's Tanabata. Even today, the eighth day, while reminiscent of last night's lingering charm, the poem and drawing both highlight its appearance, exposed and decaying as the season passes.