The tolling of the dawn bells summoned him to leave, and as he left he uttered a parting verse in such a low voice that I had to ask him to repeat it.

I ponder life’s sorrow:
Sound of the tolling bell,
Moon in the dawn sky—
What grief they bring. [2.12]

sad girl



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From The Confessions of Lady Nijō, translated by Karen Brazell - About this site