Poetry and buddhism

I have been fascinated with poetry for long. As such I look upon Poetry as the

language of mysticism. This is most evident in Haikus which are traditional short Japanese poems of 17 syllables which communicates a pristine insight into true reality. Haikus are rooted in Japanese Zen Buddhism and traditional Japanese culture. A haiku is realy a painting in words and the captivating beauty, clarity and spontaenity of their vision have been a compelling prelude to my attraction towards Buddhist philosophy.

Amongst all the Haiku poets I have found Matsuo Basho one of the classic exponents of this medium as one of my favourites followed by the deep communications of the celebrated Japanese Zen master Dogen Zenji. Amongst more modern Haiku poets I have found the beauty of the Haiku of Soen Nakagawa Roshi, another Japanese Zen master who has been the driving force behind the introduction of zen buddhism in the west, captivating in its pristine beauty. I am able to easily identify with the thoughts and visions of these masters.

Another modern Zen teacher whose teachings may be best described as being like "the cool summer rain on the parched earth" is Master Thich Naht Hahn, a Zen monk from Vietnam a peace activist poet and buddhist teacher. His wonderful prose and the soft beauty of his verse acclaiming pece and brotherhood of all human beings have touched my senses repeatedly.

Master Dogen's writings move the intellect and beyond, Master Soen Roshi's
haiku is a bridge from mundane reality to the true experience and Master Thay
(Thich Naht Hahns) teachings touces the heart and opens the moonlight path
within to true experience through compassion.

Poetry is indeed the language of mysticism.