The Art of Japanese Haiku:

“We learned about honesty and integrity – that the truth matters… that you don’t take shortcuts or play by your own set of rules… and success doesn’t count unless you earn it fair and square.” -Michelle Obama

 

Fuyugomori,

The ‘tsumetashi’ season,

One Kaeribana.

-UpontheHearth

 

The Haiku, a form of poetry is one that originates from Japan. It follows a simple syllabal pattern of 5 7 5, although there is much more to it than there seems. The syllabal pattern is only a basic fundamental.

Traditionally, apart from the syllable pattern, there is also two other key parts of a Japanese haiku. These are Kiraji, a clashing word and Kigu, referring to seasons or nature. The Japanese have some wonderful words to describe Winter such as Kareno, meaning withered field or Kangarasu, meaning cold crow.

Together, the syllabale pattern, Kiraji and Kigu can make a brilliant, traditional Japanese haiku.

 

To write a Haiku, first start with a seasonal basis. For example, it may be Spring or Autumn. What words may go with or be associated with this theme? Create a word bank of words to aid you with the process.

Now think of an idea which contrasts with the season or theme. To ‘clash’ with Spring you may think of an Autumnal word, or perhaps something else, such as death. It is the opposite of the new beginnings which are associated with Spring.

You may now begin putting together the haiku. It is up to you, however I have left an example at the top to help you with your writing.

 

_________________________________________________________________

Remember to enter the creative writing competition on the theme ‘nightmares’.

It may be a story, poem or anything!
The winner’s work will be posted on my blog and I will link to them for one week.

To enter either use the contact form to send your writing or email me at:

uponthehearth@gmail.com

The deadline is the 20th of November.