Hirohito’s Poem Loses Something in the Translation
United Press International
TOKYO —
Emperor Hirohito recalled the origins of his ancient imperial line today as he read his own poem at the annual Imperial Palace New Year’s poetry reading.
The 84-year-old emperor, who has reigned longer than any of his 123 predecessors on the Chrysanthemum Throne, described his state of mind during a trip to the ancient capital of Nara for a national athletic meet last October.
The emperor’s poem, translated: “Thinking about the history of the Yamato area where my ancient ancestors reigned I journey again today.”
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