classic waka stream

Autumn wind that blows
past the maidenflowers comes on—
though unseen to eyes,
its fragrance alone reveals
clearly that it has passed by.

Meaning
The autumn wind that has passed over the maidenflowers cannot be seen, yet its fragrance clearly reveals it.
Commentary
Book Four Autumn Poems (Part One)

Composed and presented at the maidenflower contest held at the Suzaku-in.

The poem expresses how the scent of maidenflowers is carried by the autumn wind. Though the wind itself is invisible, its presence is clearly known through the fragrance it brings.

“Shirukere” is the realis form of “shirushi,” meaning something evident or clearly perceptible.
Author
Oshikochi no Mitsune
Source
Kokin Wakashu
Other