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

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[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.