A haibun wet sidewalks glisten languages rush as tourists eschew umbrellas We arrived for a week’s vacation in Budapest this evening, and I find the city lovely- certainly very, very vibrant. Of course, that’s because we’ve rented an apartment in the city center, putting us right in the middle of all the action. The weather […]
Budapest, or: First impressions
Raindrops patter against the ground, forming a symphony of sound that echoes throughout the city. The wet sidewalks reflect the neon lights of towering buildings, illuminating the path for tourists who wander through the bustling streets. Despite the rain, they move with purpose, eager to explore the foreign land that surrounds them.
The languages of the world converge in this metropolis, each voice adding to the chorus of excitement that fills the air. They eschew umbrellas, embracing the rain as a welcome companion on their journey. With each step, they immerse themselves in the vibrant culture of the city, savoring the flavors, sights, and sounds that make it unique.
As the day draws to a close, the rain subsides, leaving a fresh scent in its wake. The tourists depart, carrying with them memories of a place that will always hold a special place in their hearts. And the wet sidewalks, now glistening with the last remnants of rain, bear witness to the countless stories that unfold within the city’s embrace.
The rain falls gently, a soft lullaby that soothes the weary soul. Wet sidewalks glisten, reflecting the colors of the world around them. Languages rush like a river, each voice adding to the melody of the rain. The tourists move with purpose, their footsteps echoing through the streets.
Umbrellas, a hindrance
to those who seek adventure
in the rain's embrace
The rain, a welcome friend
embraced by those who wander
through foreign lands
As the rain subsides,
its scent lingers in the air
a memory of joy.
A lone traveler walks along a deserted beach, the sound of waves crashing against the shore echoing in the distance. The sun sets in a blaze of colors, painting the sky with hues of pink and orange. The traveler stops to watch the spectacle, taking in the beauty of the moment.
Sun sets in the west
Colors paint the sky with grace
Beach whispers goodbye
The city bustles with life, its streets teeming with people going about their daily routines. The air is thick with the scent of coffee and pastries, as cafes and bakeries open their doors to welcome their patrons. The noise is a symphony of sound, each voice adding to the chorus of the city’s heartbeat.
City never sleeps,
Its pulse beats with energy,
A symphony of sound.
A mountain path winds its way up towards the summit, the trail narrow and steep. The air is thin, making each breath a challenge, but the view is worth the effort. As the hiker reaches the top, they are greeted with a panoramic view of the world below, a reminder of the beauty that can be found in the most challenging of journeys.
Mountain path ahead,
Breath labored, steps unsteady,
Summit's view awaits.
The forest is vibrant with the gentle rustling of leaves and the cheerful chirping of birds. The canopy overhead provides a welcome respite from the heat of the sun, casting dappled shadows on the forest floor. The earthy scent of moss and trees fills the air, a reminder of the beauty of nature.
Forest awakens,
Birds sing, leaves rustle, life thrives,
Nature's symphony.
The train station is a hub of activity, people rushing to and fro with bags and suitcases. The whistle blows, signaling the arrival of the train. There is a flurry of activity as people board and find their seats, the anticipation of the journey ahead palpable in the air.
Train station bustles,
Whistle blows, people scurry,
Journey's start begins.
The desert stretches out before the traveler, a sea of sand and sky. The heat is oppressive, making each step a struggle, but the beauty of the landscape makes it worthwhile. As the sun sets, the colors of the sky change, painting the horizon with hues of pink and purple.
Desert's endless sands,
Heat relentless, steps labored,
Sunset's beauty soothes.
The garden blooms with a riot of colors, each flower a delicate work of art. Bees buzz from bloom to bloom, collecting nectar and spreading pollen. The air is perfumed with the sweet scent of flowers, a reminder of the beauty of nature.
Garden awakens,
Flowers bloom, bees buzz, life thrives,
Nature's masterpiece.
The river flows steadily, its waters reflecting the colors of the sky. Fish swim lazily in its depths, while birds flit along its banks. The sound of rushing water fills the air, a soothing melody that lulls the traveler into a state of peace.
River's gentle flow,
Sky's colors reflected back,
Nature's symphony.
The meadow stretches out before the traveler, its grasses tall and swaying. Butterflies flit from flower to flower, while birds sing from the branches of nearby trees. The breeze is soft, carrying with it the scent of flowers and the sound of nature’s music.
Meadow's gentle sway,
Butterflies dance, birds sing,
Nature's lullaby.
The old man sits on a bench in the park, watching children play. He smiles as he remembers his own youth, a time of innocence and wonder. The children’s laughter fills him with joy, reminding him of the simple pleasures in life.
Childhood memories,
Innocence and wonder lost,
Laughter brings it back.
The city skyline towers above, a testament to human achievement. But in the shadows of the skyscrapers, there are people struggling to survive. The hustle and bustle of the city masks the cries of the forgotten, the homeless, and the hungry.
Skyscrapers rise high,
But in their shadows, unseen,
People's suffering.
The soldier stands at attention, his hand on his heart as the national anthem plays. He thinks of his fallen comrades, their sacrifice and bravery. The flag flutters in the wind, a symbol of hope and freedom for which they fought.
National anthem,
Soldier remembers his friends,
Flag waves in their honor.
The ocean stretches out before the traveler, its waves crashing against the shore. The endless expanse of water reminds the traveler of the vastness of the world, and the mysteries that lie beyond. The ebb and flow of the tide is a reminder of the cyclical nature of life, and the impermanence of all things.
Endless ocean view,
Mystery and wonder abound,
Tide ebbs and flows on.
Pebble's Galaxy 
Leave a Reply