Buson's Snow Globe

Yesterday, after dealing with computer problems and a broken sewing machine and galloping thunder-thigh squirrels---I had left a bowl of raw peanuts out on the deck for them---I popped into a thrift store, hoping to treat myself without overspending.

It is a rare day when I find anything I want, but I enjoy looking around just the same.

So it was strange that the first thing I saw when I walked in the door was a cotton sweater in like-new condition, by a maker I like to wear, in my size, and in colors that appealed to me. I was not sold, but intrigued.

A few steps farther, and I saw a rice bowl in brown tones, decorated with two stringed instruments (I am guessing they are a mandolin and a lute) and two characters that I cannot read, in Japanese or Chinese.

Then I descended the stairs into the shop's basement, and there I found Buson's Snow Globe. Under the glass, I saw a tiny replica of a bonsai garden, down to the raked sand.

On the side of the base, I found this haiku:

Coolness: the sound of the bell as it leaves the bell.

Buson

The globe had no batteries. I bought it, and once home, inserted two silver and green, Fuji brand, double As, and listened.

There is a difference between hearing and listening.

I heard bells. But also, something else, something grating. It was the sort of sound that off switches are made for.

It seemed as if Yosa Buson (1716-1783) might be trying to speak from the grave. Even for one with such a voice, it is difficult to speak without a throat.

I knew at once why Buson's beautiful snow globe had been donated to the thrift shop.

My name is Rae Hallstrom, and Ameriku® is my art and my business and my brand.

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