"Temple Bells Die Out" is a haiku that was written by the Japanese poet Basho¯, who is credited with developing the haiku form from a light humorous verse based on word play into an evocative, philosophical statement. Basho¯ used descriptions of common scenes from nature to make allegories about life.
"Temple Bells Die Out" was written between 1686-1691, a period in which Basho¯ wrote his most renowned haiku. Written in a style which Basho¯ both developed and favored, the haiku has only seventeen syllables and often contrasts two objects with no apparent similarities. In "Temple Bells Die Out," Basho¯ contrasts the sound of bells ringing through the evening with the smell of flower blossoms. His description of the transient sound of the bells and the enduring fragrance of the flowers suggests the disparate aspects of life which combine to give it form.
This complete Introduction contains 142 words. This
study guide contains 6,764 words (approx. 23 pages at 300
words per page).
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