Tengen

© 2003

Tengen, source of heaven, tempts my stones
I wish to claim it, and thereby the middle,
but the position is too unstable. I do not yet know
if my stone, placed there, will live.
Before I seek the middle, I must prepare the ground;
attend to my own affairs, so that I can put all my energies

there.

I watch you place your stones.
I place my stones.
We approach
and
dis
engage.

I have so much territory of my own —
what right do I have to mold my wall to yours?
(better to make space, prepare to reengage)
— So much wonder and to give, so much to live

what right to shape my life
[before I know it’s now, and you]
to fit with yours?
(so when you and I meet in the middle, I can be fully there)

My opening, played with yours, is unique, but
¿couldn’t it be said?
The best beginnings are so good because they don’t depend upon the other player.