Iemoto's Log Vol.25 Three Years On

Summer is now in full swing, and each day feels so hot that I wonder how long this heat will last—I feel like I might just melt. How have you all been?

It has now been two full years since I began writing this series, "Iemoto's Log," and with this issue, I step into the third year.

Over time, I’ve written about many things, and I want to sincerely thank you for taking the time to read my humble words.

These two years have passed in the blink of an eye. The deadline always seems to come around so quickly. I’ve come to truly realise how challenging it must be for those who make a living through writing. Still, I imagine that professional writers experience moments when their ideas overflow, when writing becomes pure joy, and they simply can’t stop. Perhaps it’s similar to how I often find my hands moving naturally when arranging flowers—allowing the flowers to guide me.

Looking back, I’ve written about flowers, seasonal events, and, quite often, things that felt like entries from my personal diary.

This made me want to reread everything from the very first article. I was surprised to rediscover how I used to write back then. Even though I wrote them myself, I had completely forgotten many of those early pieces. I also noticed that my recent articles tend to be much longer. Maybe, without realising it, I’ve gradually come to enjoy writing more and more.

I would like to once again express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has continued to read these pieces.

This summer, there are two flower exhibitions scheduled.

What shall I arrange this time? Where do I usually start when creating an arrangement? Do I begin with the vase? The materials?

What exactly am I thinking about when I arrange flowers?

...These are questions I am often asked. I think I’d like to take this opportunity to reflect on these things and try putting them into words.

As I begin this third year, I feel a renewed sense of purpose, and I hope to continue sharing my thoughts as they come to me along the way. Thank you very much for your continued support.

Please take good care of yourselves during these hot summer days and stay well.

梶井宮御流　Kajiinomiya Goryu

第二十一世家元　21st Headmaster

一松斎 藤原素朝　Fujiwara Socho