Beautiful Breamish blossom

One of my favourite films is the 2003 movie ‘The Last Samurai‘. While I find it memorable for all sorts of reasons – the stunning panoramas, the evocation of a strange and often cruel cultural practices – there’s a quote that sticks in my mind. The samurai leader Katsumoto (played by Ken Watanabe), is grounded in the old samurai ways and the Bushido code of honour. In contrast to his relentless warrior instincts, when confronted by Spring cherry blossom in his courtyard, he says:

The perfect blossom is a rare thing. You could spend your whole life looking for one, and it would not be a wasted life.

The Last Samurai

OK, so it’s a bit cheesy but, hey, that’s what going to the movies is all about, isn’t it? Just forgetting ourselves for an hour or so and being carried off with our imaginings.

I had the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to visit Japan several years ago during the cherry blossom season. Simply stunning.

But, of course, we have our own beautiful blossoms here in the Breamish Valley. Not so much of it in comparison but, as Ken Watanabe said you only need to find the one perfect blossom.

There is no glory in star or blossom till looked upon by a loving eye; There is no fragrance in April breezes till breathed with joy as they wander by.

William Cullen Bryant