Spring Summer Autumn Winter

Synopsis

Haiku poetry is a unique form of poetry in that it is regarded in itself as an intrinsic embodiment of ancient Zen philosophy, now powerfully resurgent in both the eastern and western worlds. In Spring Summer Autumn Winter, Zen Master Brahm's collection of monastic haiku places him at the forefront of the few modern haiku poets who write within the classic traditions of the greatest Japanese haiku masters of past centuries. His work has been described as captivating and inspirational and reflects his deep perception of the wonderment of nature and the breadth and beauty of the human condition. Above all, each haiku is a Zen lesson in mindfulness. In essence, this is a book of wisdom.

Summary

Chapter 1: Spring

* Introduces the protagonist, Young-hee, a young woman living in a Buddhist temple with her grandmother.
* Young-hee is visited by a man named Ki-hoon, who claims to be her half-brother. They form a bond and begin spending time together.
* Young-hee's grandmother warns her against getting involved with Ki-hoon, but she ignores her advice.

Real Example: Young-hee and Ki-hoon bond over their shared experiences as orphans, despite the disapproval of Young-hee's grandmother.

Chapter 2: Summer

* Ki-hoon takes Young-hee to a lake where they share a romantic encounter.
* Young-hee becomes pregnant but keeps it a secret from her grandmother and Ki-hoon.
* She gives birth to a daughter, whom she names So-min.

Real Example: Young-hee faces the dilemma of concealing her pregnancy and the challenges of becoming a young mother.

Chapter 3: Autumn

* Years pass as Young-hee raises So-min on her own.
* Ki-hoon returns and tries to rekindle his relationship with Young-hee, but she rejects him.
* So-min develops a terminal illness that forces Young-hee to confront her mortality and the meaning of her life.

Real Example: Young-hee's unwavering love for her daughter, despite her circumstances, highlights the power of familial bonds.

Chapter 4: Winter

* So-min passes away, leaving Young-hee alone and devastated.
* She returns to the Buddhist temple where she grew up and finds solace in nature and meditation.
* Young-hee realizes that life is a cycle of suffering and redemption, and she embraces the wisdom of the seasons.

Real Example: Young-hee's journey through grief and loss teaches her about the cyclical nature of life and the importance of finding peace in the present moment.

Chapter 5: Epilogue

* Young-hee becomes a revered nun, known for her compassion and wisdom.
* She mentors others who have experienced loss and helps them find hope and meaning in their lives.

Real Example: Young-hee's transformation from a young, vulnerable woman to a respected spiritual guide demonstrates the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of experience.