A Dance with Evil Spirits
by Frank Watson
I went to the monastery

Buried deep in lush green trees.


     A rustling sound


I had come to ask a question of Buddha

But he did not answer me this day;


     I saw a deer


The sky turned black

And crackled pounding rain.


     It fled. I could not find it again.


All around, the air was gray

and mixed with thunder; I could not see.


     A bell tolled


Cars stopped everywhere.

The sky contained the face of Buddha.


     Tears had fallen


I started to drive again

As mist rose from nearby mountains.


     Now there is nothing


The road ahead washed white

To reflect the midday light.





Note: Written after a visit to the Chuang Yen Monastery in Carmel, NY today.


All writings and translations are Copyright © by Frank Watson, also writing as "Blue Flute" (2011-2014).
Year: 
2012