Spring Around the World

With the cherry blossoms here in Narita having once again bloomed brilliantly and fallen quickly, spring is fully upon us which brings to mind the Japanese saying “春宵一刻値千金” (shunsho ikkoku, atai senkin), “Half an hour in a spring evening is worth a thousand gold pieces.” This expression describes how small moments of beauty are more valuable than any material object. So, to celebrate spring, here are some sayings about spring from a few countries around the world.

France: “En avril, ne te découvre pas d’un fil.” “In April, don’t remove a thread.” This French expression says that you shouldn’t put away your winter clothing yet due to the volatility of spring’s weather.

Italy: “La primavera è la stagione dell’amore.” “Spring is the season of love.” With the colder days of winter passing, the warmer days of spring bring forth new life and love.

Germany: “April, April, der macht was er will.” “April, April, it does whatever it wants”. This German saying speaks of how the spring weather, especially in April, can be unpredictable, so one must be prepared for whatever may come their way.

Korea: “꽃샘추위” (kkot saem chuwi). “The cold envies the flower.” This Korean expression talks about how winter is jealous of the flower’s beauty and wants to hold on but knows its time is up. The Netherlands: “Een nieuwe lente, een nieuw geluid.” “A new spring, a new sound.” Every year, spring arrives bringing with it new experiences. This Dutch phrase reminds us to take advantage of new opportunities and take notice of what is going on around us.

The United Kingdom: “April showers bring May flowers.” In light of the challenging British weather, this English phrase is often said to encourage a positive attitude. It may be raining heavily now, but everything will look more beautiful because of it.

While spring has sprung, 物の哀れ (mono no aware), “the pathos of things,” encourages us appreciate the fleeting nature of life and beauty and savor the transient moments. Have a wonderfully blessed spring.   Erik