Carpe Diem Tanka Splendor #20 Chrysanthemums

Dear Haijin, visitors and travelers,

Welcome at a new episode of Carpe Diem Tanka Splendor. Yesterday we had the 7th Tanka Writing Technique by Teika, "clever treatment" and today We have just a prompt for you, a prompt that fits the time of the year, Chrysanthemums. Chrysanthemums are the flowers of autumn, but they can also be used as a "kigo" (season word) for winter.

The Chrysanthemum has a special message hidden in it. That special message is:

" Support your friends with loyalty and love, especially when they’re facing an obstacle or recovering from a life-changing event. Remember to honor the cycle of life, both at its end and with new beginnings".

A short episode, but I think you can work with it. I hope the special message of the Chrysanthemum can inspire you.

Chrysanthemums were introduced into Japan around the 8th century AD, and Emperor Gotoba (1180-1239) adopted this flower as his official seal.

Let's pluck and wear you,
O chrysanthemum flower,
while there's still dew --
that never-aging autumn
must then abide forever.

© Ki no Tomonori

A wonderful "waka" I think and I had to share it here with you.

Chrysanthemum

Here is my attempt to create a Tanka with this theme:

white chrysanthemum
stands proud between falling leaves
autumn has arrived
sharing its everlasting promise
there will be a new beginning

© Chèvrefeuille

This episode is NOW OPEN for your submissions and will remain open until November 25th at noon (CET). I will try to publish our new episode, Spider's Web, later on.