The World of Courtesans c9.15

c9.15

In the fifth canto the pleasures of *shishira*, late winter, are described. In this season the windows are shuttered, the people love fire and sunshine, warm garments and young courtesans. Sandal paste, open terraces and cool breezes have lost their appeal. The nights are colder on account of the frost and the clear moonlight is of no use to the lovers. Accepting betel, perfumes and garlands, their mouths emitting the sweet aroma of wine, courtesans now enter bedrooms fumigated by *agallochum*. In this season courtesans forget all the faults of their lovers and consort with them. They wear charming *cholis* made of coloured silk They wear flowers in their hair. Lovers drink together at night. The nights are fragrant with the scent of lotuses In the morning they fumigate their hair with fragrant *agaru*-wood and wear garlands that tend to slip from their hair.