Frequently Asked Questions

A haiku is a form of traditional Japanese poetry consisting of three lines. The first line has 5 syllables, the second has 7 syllables, and the third has 5 syllables. Haiku poems typically capture a single moment in nature or everyday life, often including a seasonal reference known as 'kigo'.

To write a haiku, follow the 5-7-5 syllable structure across three lines. Choose a subject — usually a moment in nature or a brief, vivid observation. Include a 'kigo' (seasonal word) if writing in the traditional style, and a 'kireji' (cutting word) to create a pause or contrast between two ideas. Keep the language simple, direct, and sensory.

The 5-7-5 rule refers to the syllable count in a traditional haiku: the first line contains 5 syllables, the second line contains 7 syllables, and the third line contains 5 syllables — 17 syllables in total. This structure originated in Japanese poetry and remains the most widely recognised format for haiku in English.

Haiku evolved from an older Japanese form called 'hokku', the opening verse of a longer collaborative poem known as 'renga'. The poet Matsuo Bashō (1644–1694) is widely credited with elevating the hokku into an independent art form. The term 'haiku' was later popularised by poet Masaoka Shiki in the late 19th century.

The four great masters of haiku are Matsuo Bashō, Yosa Buson, Kobayashi Issa, and Masaoka Shiki. Bashō is considered the greatest haiku poet and is known for works like 'The Old Pond'. In the modern era, poets such as Santōka Taneda and international figures like Jack Kerouac have also made significant contributions to the haiku tradition.

Kigo (季語) is a seasonal reference word or phrase used in traditional Japanese haiku. It signals the time of year and adds depth and context to the poem. For example, 'cherry blossoms' suggests spring, 'cicadas' suggest summer, 'fallen leaves' suggest autumn, and 'snow' suggests winter. Kigo words are catalogued in a reference book called a 'saijiki'.

Both haiku and senryu follow the 5-7-5 syllable structure, but they differ in subject matter and tone. Haiku traditionally focus on nature, seasons, and fleeting moments of beauty. Senryu focus on human nature, behaviour, and society — often with a humorous or satirical edge. Senryu also do not require a kigo (seasonal word).

Yes, haiku can absolutely be written in English. English-language haiku follows the same 5-7-5 syllable structure and captures similar themes of nature, mindfulness, and fleeting moments. Some English haiku poets adapt the form loosely, prioritising brevity and a single vivid image over strict syllable counts, since English and Japanese syllables are not equivalent in length.

The Haiku Guru is an online platform dedicated to haiku poetry. It offers an interactive haiku builder for creating your own poems, guides to haiku history and technique, book recommendations, videos, trivia, and a daily haiku inspired by events and seasons. It is designed for both beginners and experienced poets.