by Gary Matson
I have enjoyed studying and experiencing Japanese culture. One of the aspects of Japanese culture that I admire is a profound appreciation of nature found in the arts and daily life in Japan. And with such appreciation is a sensitive feel for the changes of the four seasons. Tied to the seasonal changes is the idea of mujo (evanescence). Japanese often liken human existence to cherry blossoms that bloom and fade away in spring. The coming of spring in 2013 has brought with it a particular sense of mujo to our community. We have lost Harry Aoki.
“In the spring, cherry blossoms, in the summer the cuckoo.
In autumn the moon, and in winter the snow, clear, cold.”
This is the opening quotation Kawabata Yasunari used in the Nobel lecture he gave on December 12, 1968. He was the 1968 recipient of the Nobel Prize in Literature. Kawabata has quoted a poem written by the priest Dogen (1200-1253) titled Innate Spirit. Kawabata explains as follows how these simple words touched him:
“When we see the beauty of the snow, when we see the beauty of the full moon, when we see the beauty of cherries in bloom, when in short we brush against and are awakened by the beauty of the four seasons, it is then that we think most of those close to us, and want them to share the pleasure.”
Kawabata goes on to compare the poem with a similar one written by the priest Ryokan (1758-1831):
“What shall be my legacy? The blossoms of spring,
The cuckoos in the hills, the leaves of autumn.”
Kawabata suggests that Ryokan pursued literature and belief in the benign spirit summarized in the Buddhist phrase “a smiling face and gentle words.”
As winter now departs, we look forward to the blossoms of spring. This year’s crossing of winter to spring marks the passage of the life of Harry Aoki. Harry was a marvelous musician. He shared the pleasure of music with others. He encouraged and inspired others to join him in the making of music in wonderfully eclectic ways. He did so with a smiling face and gentle words. Harry’s legacy is built on his music and the goodness and decency of his spirit.
Gary Matson, President, GVJCCA
