Simple format:
5 "on" (a Japanese word meaning a phonetic unit-- but in English we usually translate that to syllables)
7 "on"
5 "on"
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Haikus traditionally invoke nature imagery. From Wikipedia: The essence of haiku is 'cutting' (kiru).[1] This is often represented by the juxtaposition of two images or ideas[2] and a kireji ('cutting word') between them, a kind of verbal punctuation mark which signals the moment of separation and colors the manner in which the juxtaposed elements are related."
Below is my favorite haiku, by Mizuta Masahide (late 1600s). In the English translation, it doesn't follow the sound form. But the haiku essence of opposition, kiru, and imagery remain.
Barn's burnt down
now
I can see the moon
Try one. Your haiku needn't be formal, or even serious-- but play with the kiru.
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Till tomorrow--
Jana
10 comments:
High thin cloud cover
gives the thief veiling shadows,
the moon a halo.
You win the speed prize, for true.
Deep motivation
With a bulge to beat the band.
Weight Watchers a must.
Shore pines puncture sky
Dead shorebird poses on sand
Surf churns endlessly
Squirrel jumps to feed
gripping toes, downside up. Oops.
Small birds returning.
Here in Ukiah
No one can write a Haiku
What a backwards town
Bad Bowling Haiku
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Nine pins crashing down
The lone ivory standing
Yet again, you're spared
The bishop busted
Six hundred naughty pix and
A handheld device
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/01/05/world/americas/canada-judge-frees-jailed-bishop.html?_r=1&scp=1&sq=%22handheld+device%22+priest&st=cse
Boog, you are SO ahead of the game-- keep your eyes peeled for Jan 7 challenge.
Ukiah's backwards,
but the Haiku on Maui
hikes up the mountain.
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