On Love and Barley is a collection of haiku by Matsuo Bashō, one of Japan’s most renowned poets. Bashō is credited with elevating haiku to an art form, and this collection showcases his skill in capturing the beauty of nature, the transient moments of life, and the profound within the simple. Through concise and evocative verses, Bashō reflects on human emotion, spirituality, and his travels through the Japanese countryside.

Why read this book

• Experience the beauty and simplicity of haiku, the traditional Japanese poetic form.
• Bashō’s haikus offer insight into Zen philosophy and mindfulness.
• Perfect for readers seeking brief, meditative reflections on nature and life.
• Provides a unique cultural and historical perspective on 17th-century Japan.
• A collection that can be revisited for inspiration and peaceful contemplation.

About the Author

Matsuo Bashō (1644–1694) is one of the most famous Japanese haiku poets. His poetry, rooted in Zen Buddhism, emphasized simplicity and the beauty of the natural world. His works have had a lasting influence on both Japanese and global poetry. Bashō’s travel journals, along with his haikus, reflect a deeply spiritual connection to nature and remain widely celebrated today.