Sanuki no Suke’s Diary: Memories of the Imperial Palace (12)

 

     The next morning, with the vivid impressions of the previous night still lingering in my mind, my thoughts immediately turn to the late Emperor. I write to Taira Chushi (1037–1109), knowing she will understand my feelings, as she is always in my thoughts.

     My poem:

Gazing upon the splendid ceremonies

Of the Five Festivals,

How deeply I long for the late Emperor,

Whom I served for so many years.

     Chushi’s reply:

Just hearing of those splendid ceremonies

Of the Five Festivals is wonderful.

Now a stranger to the palace,

My sleeves are utterly drenched.