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The excerpt represents the core issue or deciding factor on which you must meditate, and is drawn from Kwaidan by Lafcadio Hearn: trees of solid character. But you say that they are stiff and formal; and
you hate the sight of them, and never pay them a visit. Only to the
cherry-tree, and the kaido [15], and the peony, and the yellow rose you go:
those you like because they have showy flowers, and you try only to please
them. Such conduct, let me assure you, is very unbecoming. Those trees
certainly have handsome flowers; but hunger-satisfying fruits they have
not; and they are grateful to those only who are fond of luxury and show.
And that is just the reason why they are pleased by your fluttering wings
and delicate shape;-- that is why they are kind to you.
"Now, in this spring season, while you sportively dance through the
gardens of the wealthy, or hover among the beautiful alleys of cherry-trees
Kwaidan |
