Redstart in the Snow (Japanese Poetry)

The graceful Redstart migrates to Japan in October and during the early part of November. They naturally avoid the harsh northern regions of the country and instead seek the central and southern regions. Hence, there is often a sudden increase in sightings of these birds before severe winter weather hits northern China, Mongolia, and southern Siberia in the Russian Federation.

Sawako Utsumi, a contemporary artist who hails from northern Japan, depicts the Redstart above in a mild winter scene. Accordingly, the Redstart is perched on a snow-covered log but appears seemingly at peace. Similar to Robins in the United Kingdom, the Redstart in low-level mountain areas is extremely inquisitive.

The poet Kawabata Bosha (1897-1941) wrote:

Like the handball
of the old monk Ryōkan,
the redstart bounces near.

Each year, in Utsumi’s mountain abode – where small Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples dot the landscape (even if Shinto shrines are often small in scale) – the Redstart, despite not having the spiritual association of Jizō, still provides a warmth inside.

Redstarts protect their small territories – for example, around a traditional house and garden in low-level mountain areas. Thus, the male and female guard against other Redstarts entering their limited territory. At the same time, when residing in areas inhabited by humans, they are lovely visitors because Redstarts, like Robins in the United Kingdom, are friendly and inquisitive. Therefore, each autumn and winter is a time to look forward to seeing this lovely bird in Japan.

The poet Iida Dakotsu (1885-1962) wrote:

In the timber forest,
past the little redstart—
a drift of woodsmoke.

Overall, during the colder months in Japan, the Redstart is a delightful visitor to witness. If fortunate, one may even welcome this charming bird into the garden, or encounter it near a local Buddhist compound, Shinto shrine, or small park. Therefore, for Utsumi, the Redstart is a familiar friend she awaits each year in her mountain abode.

Written by Lee Jay Walker

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