Tag Archives: autumn

A leaf on the wind; watch how it soars

一葉落ちて天下の秋を知る (Ichiyou ochite tenka no aki wo shiru; “A leaf falls, and one knows autumn”) Definition: Sensing something big coming on from a relatively minor hint. Understanding the future from the very first signs. Like realizing that fall is on … Continue reading

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Hot air, cold air

物言えば唇寒し秋の風 (Mono ieba kuchibiru samushi aki no kaze; “When you say something, then your lips will feel the chill of an autumn wind”) Definition: Being nasty will only make you feel bad later; shooting off your mouth invites disaster. Needlessly … Continue reading

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A harder love

A harder love than frost I love the autumn: The smell of leaves’ new colors, The golds, yellows, reds, The play of warmth and coolness, The wonder of birds in flight. You are my autumn. You are bright leaves on … Continue reading

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An autumn all the more lovely for being free of raiders from the north

This isn’t a kotowaza in the normal sense of an adage or precept; it’s just an expression. But I’ve loved it since I learned it, and thought I’d take this opportunity to share. 天高く馬肥ゆる秋 (Ten takaku uma koyuru aki; “High-heavened, … Continue reading

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Godot. Guffman. Superman. The Man.

Hoping for fall – and cooler weather – to come soon. 一日三秋 ichi.jitsu.san.shuu Literally: one – day – three – autumn(s) Alternately: A single day seems like three years. Each moment seems to drag on. Waiting impatiently. Notes: The first … Continue reading

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