Haiku
in English
Haiku is a type of short form poetry that originated in Japan. In Japanese, haiku are traditionally printed as a single line, while haiku in English often appear as three lines, although variations exist.
Although haiku in English are also short poems that generally reference
the seasons, not all elements of Japanese haiku have to be implemented.
For example, it is a misconception that the three lines
of an English haiku have to obey the 5-7-5 syllable pattern.
(it does act as a good guide, though)
Check your understanding of syllables:
The label "haiku" is sometimes applied to any short, impressionistic poem, but there are certain characteristics that are commonly associated with the genre:
- a focus on nature or the seasons
- a division into two asymmetrical sections that juxtaposes two subjects (e.g. something natural and something human-made, two unexpectedly similar things, etc.)
- a contemplative or wistful tone and an impressionistic brevity
- no superfluous words, but avoiding a "telegram style" syntax
- an emphasis on imagery over exposition
- avoidance of metaphor and similes
- non-rhyming lines
- brevity, with some haiku meant to be expressed in a single breath