The Tamagawa river
whispers her raucous refrain
cool and unruly
calling out to no one
as I walk along Mitake Gorge.

River of life and grace
imagined rhythm
blood in my veins
waking ancient memories
drawing me to her stony bank.

Red and yellow ripples of light
dance with reflected beauty,
maples, beeches, and gingkoes
in annual pilgrimage,
homage in a thousand pyres.

The gods must surely blush
at the wild abandon
and earthly delights,
at such autumnal beauty
that comes from patience and time.