The essence of this piece is the imagined inner space of a Japanese Zen monk assigned the task of ringing the Densho or temple bell, calling the other monks to meditation. Aligning with a reverent, sacred equanimity in preparation for ringing the bell is the monk’s goal. The ritual sequence as the monk approaches the bell, pauses, and then swings the shu-moku – the wooden striker – is the practice for that task.

Although not himself a monk, the composer frequently wishes for that sense of equanimity in the midst of this daily life.