Welcome to Poem of the Day – It’s Morning by Shuntaro Tanikawa.
Shuntaro Tanikawa, one of Japan’s most prominent contemporary poets, offers a beautiful reflection on the everyday moments of life in his poem “It’s Morning.” This piece is a simple yet profound exploration of the feeling that comes with the start of a new day, a theme that resonates universally. Let’s dive into the meaning and significance of this poem.
It’s Morning Poem
First I stretch myself in bed
I rise up in one breath
I go take a pee
I fetch newspapers
I am a miniscule power plant
The power of dry leaves falling
The power of tears from a fussing child
The power of the resonance of a Jews’ harp moving away
The power of casually placed punctuation
The power of Good Morning!
An invisible matrix
unites miniscule powers
I am one of its joints, too
A globe is placed on the table
I try to stare down the Earth
I drink a glass of carrot juice
I turn on my desktop computer
I sit unfocused for a little while
Unexpected words come to me
like water bubbles, like now
In “It’s Morning,” Tanikawa captures the essence of a quiet morning as a moment of calm and renewal. He focuses on the small, often overlooked aspects of daily life, inviting the reader to reflect on these moments with fresh eyes. His poem embodies the philosophy of mindfulness, encouraging the reader to embrace the present moment without distraction.
It’s Morning Poem Explanation
The Beauty of Ordinary Life
Tanikawa is known for finding beauty in simplicity, and “It’s Morning” is a perfect example of this. Through the poem, he demonstrates how the beginning of the day, a seemingly routine occurrence, holds immense significance. The morning becomes symbolic of new beginnings, a fresh start, and an opportunity for reflection.
Connection to Nature
Tanikawa’s poetry often draws on natural imagery, and in “It’s Morning,” nature plays a central role. The sounds of birds, the movement of light, and the quiet hum of the world awakening all form part of the natural rhythm that Tanikawa describes. The poem invites the reader to experience the world through these sensations, emphasizing how our surroundings shape our emotional and spiritual well-being.
Mindfulness and Presence
A crucial aspect of “It’s Morning” is its focus on being present in the moment. The simplicity of the morning rituals—the sound of the birds, the feel of the air, the first rays of light—acts as a reminder to slow down and appreciate what’s around us. Tanikawa encourages us to disconnect from the noise of daily life and embrace the peace that comes from simply existing in the present.
Language and Imagery
Tanikawa’s language is straightforward, yet his imagery is rich with sensory detail. He doesn’t rely on complex metaphors or language to convey his message. Instead, he chooses simplicity, using familiar images such as the morning sun and the sound of birds, making the poem accessible to all readers. This clarity allows his message to come through without distraction, making the poem a perfect reflection of the peacefulness of morning.
Why It Resonates
In today’s fast-paced world, “It’s Morning” serves as a gentle reminder to pause and appreciate the small moments of life. The poem speaks to anyone who has experienced the tranquility that comes with a quiet morning. Its simplicity is part of its beauty—there’s no need for grand statements or elaborate thoughts. Instead, Tanikawa reminds us of the importance of stillness, of connecting to ourselves and the world around us.
Conclusion
Shuntaro Tanikawa’s “It’s Morning” is a powerful reminder of the beauty in the mundane. The poem captures the quiet joy of the start of a new day, urging us to slow down, embrace the present, and appreciate the small things that often go unnoticed. Through simple language and vivid imagery, Tanikawa creates a piece that is both reflective and calming, making it a perfect Poem of the Day for readers who seek peace and mindfulness in their lives.
