This is an illustration that Hokusai drew for Kyo-Shi (humorous poem) book titled ‘Itako Zekku-shu’.

The two poems have similar meanings; the writer sighs because of her inability to wed her lover due to her status as a courtesan.

These beautiful courtesans might be comforting each other on a pleasant spring day.

Each poem is written in both Japanese and Chinese.

# Right poem is read: 縁と時節を待てとは 言えど 時節どころか 片時も

# Left poem is read: わしによう似た あのホトトギス 鳴いて明かして いるわいな