Poet Sosei Hōshi (Priest Sosei) from page 3A of the printed book of "Thirty-Six Immortal Poets" (SanjÅ«rokkasen), Kōetsu edition c. 1610

Editor: Here we have "Poet Sosei Hoshi" from the "Thirty-Six Immortal Poets," a Kōetsu edition print. The calligraphy is by Hon'ami Kōetsu from the Momoyama period. It's a beautiful, delicate image. What do you see in this piece? Curator: Well, it's more than just seeing, isn't it? It's feeling the artist's hand, the weight of tradition, the quiet contemplation. The poet’s robe, so intricately patterned, contrasts wonderfully with the fluid calligraphy. It’s as if he’s caught mid-thought, a poem forming in the air around him. Editor: That's a lovely interpretation. I hadn't thought about the poem taking shape around him! Curator: It's all suggestion, isn’t it? The artist invites us to complete the story. What I find striking is the raw, almost vulnerable quality—a peek into the poet's inner world. What do you make of that? Editor: I agree. It’s like he's sharing a secret with us. Curator: Exactly! And that's the magic of art, isn't it? A shared whisper across centuries.