Sijo is Korean poetic form, which originated nearly 700 years ago and is still written today. Typically dealing with topics of nature and existence, a sijo consists of just three short lines, with the final line providing some sort of twist or surprise ending.

The work 시조 (Sijo) evokes the character of a sijo poem, in this case by Joseon-era poet Kwon Homun (권호문). In this short piece, an atmosphere of serenity contrasts with the more turbulent distractions of the world, before regaining its calm in a new place.

 

바람은 절로 맑고 달은 절로 밝다.

대숲 정원 솔 기둥에 한 점 티끌 없으니.

한 대의 거문고 만권의 책이 더욱 깨끗하구나.

권호문

 

The wind is pure and clear, the moon is pure and bright.
The pine veranda in the bamboo garden is pure of worldly cares.
But a lute and piles of scrolls can make it purer still.

Kwon Homun (trans. Richard Rutt)