Things That Have Lost Their Power

"A large boat which is high and dry in a creek at ebb-tide. A woman who has taken off her false locks to comb the short hair that remains. A large tree that has been blown down in a gale and lies on its side with it roots in the air. The retreating figure of a sumo wrestler who has been defeated in a match. A man of no importance reprimanding an attendant."

Sei Shonagon, "Things That Have Lost Their Power" from The Pillow Book (11th Century).

[Translated by Ivan Morris.]