At around the the time the Kanpyō Emperor took Holy Orders, ladies were only permitted to serve him from beyond his curtains, and being unable to approach him closely, she wrote this and fastened it to his screen.
立ちよらは影踏む許近けれど誰かなこその関をすゑけん
| tatiyoraba kage Fumu bakari tikakeredo tare ka nakoso no seki o suweken |
If I were to approach, I would simply step upon your shadow; I am so close, yet Who is it Nakoso – Come not – That barrier has placed between us? |
The Kohachijō Miyasudokoro 小八条御息所
[Minamoto no Sadako 源貞子]