How to Read “物言えば唇寒し秋の風”
mono ieba kuchibiru samushi aki no kaze
Meaning of “物言えば唇寒し秋の風”
This proverb expresses the psychological state of becoming anxious about whether one’s words were appropriate or feeling regret after making a statement.
In particular, it expresses the chilly uneasiness and worry felt after making critical remarks or frank opinions. “Lips cold” does not refer to physical coldness, but metaphorically expresses the mental agitation and anxiety after speaking. The autumn wind symbolizes the seasonal transition from summer’s warmth to winter’s harshness, representing the subtle change in atmosphere caused by one’s words and the anxiety about consequences that might follow.
This proverb is used in situations immediately after expressing honest feelings or critical opinions. Even when one believes their statement was correct, it captures the moment when worries cross one’s mind about whether they might have hurt the other person or damaged the relationship. Even today, it is understood as an expression that accurately describes that subtle state of mind felt after speaking frankly in a meeting or giving an honest opinion to a friend.
Origin and Etymology
This proverb is said to originate from a haiku by the Edo period poet Matsuo Basho. Basho composed the verse “Mono ieba kuchibiru samushi aki no kaze,” which is thought to have later become established as a proverb.
The social conditions of the time are deeply connected to the background of Basho’s composition of this verse. The Edo period was an era with a strict class system, where careless remarks could lead to one’s downfall. Political statements and criticism of those in power were often subject to severe punishment.
The expression “lips cold” does not simply represent physical coldness, but expresses the psychological anxiety and fear felt after speaking. The autumn wind was used as a symbol of the seasonal transition that marks the end of summer’s heat and foreshadows winter’s harshness.
Considering the historical context in which this verse was created, we can see that Basho deeply understood the frightening power of words and the weight of responsibility in speaking. Within beautiful natural imagery, he embedded the complexity of human society and the danger of words – a work filled with the deep insight that is truly characteristic of Basho. This verse, which expressed universal human psychology, has been loved by many people across the ages and passed down as a proverb.
Usage Examples
- After pointing out problems in a meeting, I’m in a state of “If thing speak lips cold autumn wind,” unable to stop worrying about everyone’s reactions
- I gave my honest opinion about my friend’s boyfriend, and now I’m in the mood of “If thing speak lips cold autumn wind”
Modern Interpretation
In modern society, the meaning of this proverb has taken on more complex and serious aspects. With the spread of social media and the internet, our statements are instantly disseminated worldwide and permanently recorded. Comments and statements once posted remain as digital tattoos semi-permanently.
Particularly noteworthy is the spread of cancel culture. Even trivial remarks can be taken out of context and become targets of major criticism. Not only celebrities and politicians, but ordinary people also constantly face the risk of social sanctions due to careless statements. This phenomenon can truly be called the modern version of “If thing speak lips cold autumn wind.”
On the other hand, modern society also values freedom of expression and respect for diversity. However, amid these conflicting values, many people have become overly cautious about speaking, creating an atmosphere where it’s difficult to express one’s true feelings. In various situations – workplace harassment issues, hypersensitive reactions to political statements, discussions about gender and human rights – people are being careful about their word choices.
Under these circumstances, this proverb is beginning to take on new meaning. Post-speech anxiety has evolved beyond personal relationship issues into more serious concerns about social standing and future implications.
When AI Hears This
The true brilliance of this verse lies not merely in its lesson about “loose lips sink ships,” but in its exquisite setup where the “lips”—the very bodily organ that produces speech—experience physical coldness as a result of their utterance.
Why not “cheeks feel cold” or “hands feel cold”? Because the lips are the frontline organ that weaves words. It’s like a computer keyboard becoming cold from the very text you’ve typed on it. In other words, it creates a structure where the act of criticism rebounds directly onto the very part of the body that executed that act.
Even more fascinating are the physical characteristics of lips. Lips are among the thinnest parts of the body, so sensitive that blood vessels show through them. Medically speaking, lips are considered one of the places most sensitive to temperature changes. Basho intuitively grasped this physiological fact and expressed psychological regret through the body part capable of feeling it most acutely.
The sensation of “coldness” is also exquisite. By choosing coldness rather than heat, he expresses the sense of silence and isolation that follows after speaking. It’s as if one’s own words freeze the surrounding air, and that chill returns to the speaker’s lips. This circular structure is what creates a literary completeness that transcends mere moral instruction.
Lessons for Today
What this proverb teaches us today is the wisdom to deeply understand the power of words and skillfully navigate our relationship with them. Post-speech anxiety and worry are never signs of weakness. They are proof that you seriously consider others and try to take responsibility for your words.
What’s important is not to fear this “lips cold” sensation so much that you fall silent, but to cultivate the ability to choose appropriate words at appropriate times. Sometimes it’s necessary to courageously speak the truth, and sometimes it’s necessary to refrain from speaking out of consideration for others’ feelings.
In modern society, because the impact of statements extends more widely, the importance of word choice has increased. However, this is not meant to stifle expression, but to build more thoughtful communication that shows greater respect for others. Your honest feelings and important opinions, when conveyed through appropriate methods, will surely become valuable. Experiencing moments of “If thing speak lips cold autumn wind” is also proof that you are growing.
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