On the back of the Forestone package is a poem in Japanese by one of the most famous Japanese poets, Matsuo Basho (1644-1694). The English translation of is:
This type of verse is known as “haiku.” Haiku evolved hundreds of years ago in Japan as a form of “sending” or “play” verse. The form is extraordinarily compact and concise: a mere three lines with five syllables in the first line, seven in the second, and five in the third. In these seventeen syllables, a universe of thought may be expressed.

Haiku poets rely on symbolism, keen observation and a deep love of nature to create their exquisite word pictures. A distinct art form whose main pillars are understatement and omission, haiku are meant to be read and re-read over and over again, enabling you to experience new interpretations with the passage of time.

Matsuo Basho is arguably the greatest haiku poet of them all. His “cuckoo/bamboo” poem is a gem that seems particularly relevant to the subject of clarinet playing and reeds. The bamboo reference is obvious. As for the cuckoo, there are many musical references linking the clarinet and this particular bird starting with the Symphony #6 in F Major by Ludwig van Beethoven (Pastoral). At the end of the first movement of this masterwork, there are bird calls. The first is a generic bird and it is performed by the flute. The second is a cuckoo and it is performed by the clarinet.

Danke schön Herr Beethoven. Arigato Basho-san.