Junicho Renku: Pizzicato

first blackthorn blossom
the tightness of the starling flock
loosens

risen mist
has left the greenness

under the canal bridge
just the throb
of a passing barge

string quartet pizzicato
at the open window

rummaging
through the toolbox -
a waft of wood oil

at the flea market
she finds that special scarf

I suppose
you’re an old flame -
what an odd thought

the Kama Sutra
carved in stone

scratching the city
stark moon
and frost

almost perfect
hotpot gets peppered

last-gasp equaliser
the chanting
switches ends

the wind blows out
the pumpkin’s eyes

all verses collegiate - composed 21/04/06
Kilnsey in Wharfedale

John Barlow
Colin Blundell
Doreen King
Martin Lucas
David Platt
Helen Robinson