On the occasion of the “Hanami all’Orto Botanico” event organized by the Sapienza University of Rome and the Festival of Greenery and Landscape, Casadei Libri will present a preview of Snow on vermilion leaves, the collection of poems by D?gen Zenji enriched by commentary by Shohaku Okomura and the calligraphies of Norio Nagayama. The meeting entitled “Realising the Path while contemplating peach blossoms” (21 April at 5pm at the Botanical Gardens of Rome) will see the participation of illustrious personalities, including Lorenzo Casadei, publisher and translator, Michael Gauvain, translator , the Zen master Annamaria Gyoetsu Epifanìa and Master Norio Nagayama, whose work will be on display during the day.
The very title of the book, Snow on Vermillion Leaves, evokes the harmonious coexistence between unity and multiplicity, central concepts in Zen practice. Shohaku Okomura explains that this expression perfectly embodies the interpenetration of absolute and conventional realities, pushing readers to explore the profound meaning of life and nature. Each of D?gen’s poems reflects the diversity of the natural world and the continuous flow of phenomena, opening new perspectives on our existence. In these pages, the whiteness of the snow and the vibrant colors of the leaves become tangible symbols of unity and multiplicity, essential concepts in Zen practice. Shohaku Okomura, in his contribution, guides us in a deeper understanding of this collection, pushing us to explore with an open and meditative mind. In addition to Zenji’s words and Okomura’s enlightening commentary, the volume also contains the magnificent works of art of the master calligrapher Norio Nagayama. His calligraphies add a depth and tangible beauty that enrich the experience of reading this collection, transforming it into a sensorial and spiritual journey.
A unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the essence of Zen thought, exploring new perspectives on life and nature through the words of D?gen Zenji and the illuminating contributions of Shohaku Okomura. Snow on Vermilion Leaves is more than a book: it is an invitation to deep reflection and the practice of the Dharma. An unprecedented opportunity to explore the beauty and wisdom of the Zen universe, transforming our understanding of the self and the world around us.
Rome 21 April 2024
5.00 pm at the Botanical Garden of Rome
