Writing Haiku: A Beginner's Guide

Understanding Haiku

Haiku is a traditional form of Japanese poetry that has become popular worldwide. At its core, a haiku is a short poem that captures a moment in nature and often includes a seasonal reference.

Traditional Haiku Structure

• 5-7-5 Syllable Structure:

  • First line: 5 syllables
  • Second line: 7 syllables
  • Third line: 5 syllables

• Kigo (Seasonal Reference):

  • References a specific season
  • Can be direct (e.g., "snow") or indirect (e.g., "warmth" for summer)

• Kireji (Cutting Word):

  • Creates a pause or break in the poem
  • Often represented by punctuation like a dash or colon in English

Modern Haiku

While traditional haiku follows strict rules, modern haiku often deviates from the 5-7-5 structure while maintaining the essence of capturing a moment. The focus is on:

• Brevity and simplicity
• Present-moment awareness
• A sense of surprise or insight

Tips for Writing Haiku

1. Observe Nature: Spend time in nature and observe the small details.
2. Be Present: Focus on the here and now.
3. Use Concrete Images: Show, don't tell.
4. Create Contrast: Juxtapose two different images or ideas.
5. Edit Ruthlessly: Haiku is about economy of words.

Example Haiku

An old silent pond...
A frog jumps into the pond-
Splash! Silence again.

- Matsuo Bashō

Practice Exercise

1. Go outside and find a quiet spot.
2. Observe your surroundings for 5 minutes.
3. Write down 3-5 images or moments that stand out.
4. Try to capture one of these moments in a 5-7-5 haiku.