Spring Has Come to Okinawa
Ryukyu spring arrives with a slight
heaviness in the air.
Forewarning of the overwhelming humidity felt in summer time.
Small drops of perspiration escape from the edges of hair.
In prelude to the devastating heat yielded in next season’s prime.
Look forward to sweating on tatami,
immobile sat.
In summer may need five showers a day.
Look forward to bright blue skies and
sunlight shaded by a hat.
Hoping for a cool breeze to pass your way.
The scent of fresh cut sugarcane through the air laces.
While the farmers stack their harvests
along the narrow roads.
Bundles of stalks on the weave of
pavement graces.
While the sweet smell and moist air
mingle in playful modes.
Spring has come to Okinawa,
Wistful nights of sleep.
Spring has come to Okinawa,
Just shy of the clammy creep.