Written by
Ronald Hammond posted on July 13, 2014 12:24
A Short Haiku Primer:
Haiku is a very short form of Japanese poetry popularized by Matsuo Bashō (1644–1694), traditionally characterized by three qualities:
- The essence of haiku is almost always represented by the juxtaposition of two images or ideas.
- Traditional haiku consist of 17 syllables in three phrases of 5, 7 and 5 respectively.
- A seasonal reference, now widely ignored
In traditional and Japanese form, haiku are printed in a single vertical line. In English haiku often appear in three lines, the first line of 5 syllables, the second of 7 and the final line of 5.
In current English haiku, the images juxtaposed must be directly observed everyday objects or occurrences. This is the style which I employ in all my haiku.
There are many haiku clubs around the world which express the love and experiences of their own locale.
During my recent June visit to Thousand Islands I found it impossible to resist writing a few haiku. Some are shared below.
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The machines asleep
Birds singing, whole world list’ning
Not even one leaf moves
- - -
Natures’ Spring greeting
Are you still there? Did you sleep well?
Do you still love me?
- - -
Flock of geese lift off
Over Sagastaweka
Honking trail of sound
- - -
Learn to read nature
Twisted limbs, leaves, moss, rocks, stars
Each one shares its tale
- - -
Not wanting to move
Not wanting to talk or think
Drinking nature’s wine
- - -
Evening island meal
Summer visits us again
Along with old friends
- - -
Ah, the flowered patch
Arisen from the cold earth
Smiles in the sunset
By Ronald Hammond, Nyack, NY
Ronald Hammond was born in northeastern Ohio in a farming community. He came to New York to Nyack College where he received a BA in Social Science and Biblical studies. Always a lover, of nature he spent much of his early years in the woods and streams, hiking and camping, participating in Scouting and achieving the rank of Eagle Scout. His professional life was spent in various management positions in electronics and ERP software consulting. Now partially retired he consults with small companies improving their integrated management systems. Ron’s hobbies include sailing, gardening, singing in an Episcopal Church choir, and writing haiku.