Beneath
the quiet hush
of the trembling trees
the light is fractured
Komorebi dances
and whispers spill
like secrets
each shaft of sunlight
a thread of grace
as the branches
weave their spells
shadows are stilled
as the forest watches
for this is a place
where beauty burns
and no-one
speaks its name
© Ann Bagnall
What is KOMOREBI?
Komorebi (木漏れ日) is a Japanese word that refers to the sunlight that filters and shines through the leaves of trees, creating a beautiful, dappled light effect on the ground or other surfaces. It’s a word that captures the delicate and fleeting beauty of this natural phenomenon, and there isn’t a single, perfect English equivalent.
木 (ko): Meaning “tree”.
漏れ (more): Meaning “leak” or “seepage”.
日 (bi): Meaning “sun” or “sunlight”.
Together, these characters create the sense of sunlight passing through the leaves of trees, resulting in a pattern of light and shadow. Komorebi is more than just a description of light; it evokes a sense of tranquility, beauty, and a connection with nature. It’s a reminder to appreciate the small, subtle moments of beauty in the world around us.
Annie's Poetry 