"ONE HUNDRED POEMS"
by Sen Rikyu
In memory of Michael A. Birch.
"Hishaku nite sayu to mizu to wo kumu toki ha kumu to omowaji, motsu to omowaji."
When scooping hot or cold water with the hishaku, do not think of scooping with it or holding it.
"Hishaku nite yu o kumu toki no narai niha mittsu no kokoroe arumono zo kashi."
When scooping hot water with the bamboo ladle, there are three things which require strict attention.
"Yu wo kumu ha hishaku ni kokoro tsuki no wa no sononenuyoni kakugoshe kumu."
You should resolve to scoop water without damaging the neck of the bamboo ladle.
"Furo koicha kanarazu kama ni mizu sasuto hitosujini omou hito ha ayamari."
A person who unquestioningly thinks that water must be added to the kettle when preparing thick tea during the brazier (furo) season is mistaken.
"Akatsuki ha sukiya no uchi mo andon ni yakai nadoniha tankei wo oke."
For dawn gatherings, use andon even in the tearoom; for evening gatherings, set out tankei.
"Hanaire no orekugi utsu ha jishikii yori sanjaku sanzun gobu amari mo ari."
When putting in the hook for the flower container, position it 3 shaku, 3 sun, 5 bu from the floor of the alcove.
"Kama hitotsu areba chanoyu ha naru mono wo kazu no dogu wo motsu ha orokana."
Having one kettle you can make tea; it is foolish to possess many utensils.
to be continued