Meet the Poets of Hyakunin Isshu
Sugawara no Michizane
Meaning
This time, setting out in haste, I could not bring any offerings. O god of Mount Tamuke, please accept instead this brocade of autumn leaves, as you will.
Commentary
This poem was composed by 菅原道真, who accompanied the Retired Emperor on a journey. Known today as the god of learning, he is listed in the Hyakunin Isshu under the name 菅家.
In the Heian period, travellers would offer strips of paper or hemp — called 幣 — to the roadside deities when passing through mountain passes. Michizane had none, but with a quick wit he offered the beautiful autumn leaves in their place.
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