Ystrad Haiku

(from a seven day solitary retreat on the Ystrad Estate in Radnorshire)

Surrounded by sprouts 
stone cottage 
labouring poor

Sleep so deep 
I forget the names 
of lovers long ago

Small birds sing their evensong 
how sharp the incense!

Smoke drifts 
from my neighbour's chimney 
morning rain

Birdsong and rain 
incense and solitude 
day follows day

Young flames leap 
in pale sunlight 
it's Sunday morning!

Hanging up my old kimono 
incense ash