An ancient form of Japanese poetry, the English version of a haiku is only three lines. They do not have to rhyme but they do follow a particular rule about syllables:
the first line has five,
the second line has seven,
and the third has five
The haiku has its origins in the Japanese hokku—the opening stanza of a longer renga[1] sequence. They often use images to depict a brief moment of time with a focus on nature or seasons.
I come weary [2]
I come weary,
In search of an inn—
Ah! These wisteria flowers!
An ancient pond [3]
An ancient pond!
With a sound from the water
Of the frog as it plunges in
Try it yourself
Remember pick a time and use vivid imagery
A haiku about a specific season:
| 5 |
| 7 |
| 5 |
A haiku about a specific time:
| 5 |
| 7 |
| 5 |
A haiku that focuses on nature:
| 5 |
| 7 |
| 5 |
[1] a poem written by different poets that was usually 36 lines
[2] Matsuo Basho; translation by William George Aston (1899). This poem is in the public domain.
[3] Matsuo Basho; translation by William George Aston (1899). This poem is in the public domain.
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