How to Write Haiku in Japanese

How to Write Haiku in Japanese

The haiku, a beloved form of Japanese poetry, is a 17-syllable poem that captures a moment in time, often evoking a sense of nature or the seasons. The haiku’s brevity and simplicity belie its profound depth, making it a challenging yet rewarding art form.

Crafting the Haiku in Japanese

The haiku consists of three lines, with a 5-7-5 syllable count, respectively. The first and third lines are separated by a caesura, or pause, which divides the poem into two parts and adds to its rhythmic quality.

Each haiku seeks to paint a vivid image or convey a fleeting emotion using language that is both direct and evocative. The poet must carefully select each word, considering its sound, meaning, and placement within the poem’s structure.

Types of Haiku Writing Styles

There are several different writing styles that can be used in haiku composition. These include:

• Mono no aware: This style emphasizes the transience and impermanence of life, often through the depiction of nature or changing seasons.
• Kireji: This is a cutting word that creates a sense of separation between the two parts of the poem, highlighting the contrast or tension between them.
• Juxtaposition: This technique places two seemingly unrelated images or ideas side by side, creating a new and evocative meaning.

Examples of Haiku in Japanese

• Matsuo Bashō (1644-1694)

furuike ya
kawazu tobikomu
mizu no oto

Old pond –
A frog jumps into
The sound of water

• Yosa Buson (1716-1783)

kare-eda ni
karasu no tomari-keri
aki no kure

On a withered branch
A crow has settled
Autumn evening

• Kobayashi Issa (1763-1828)

o-jisan no
tai ga hayai na
hotaru kana

Fat old man!
Quick as a belly-flop!
A firefly

Tips for Writing Haiku in Japanese

• Observe carefully: Pay attention to the details of your surroundings, noticing the subtle changes and fleeting moments that often pass unnoticed.
• Use concrete language: Avoid abstractions and generalizations. Instead, focus on specific images, sensations, and emotions.
• Experiment with sound: The sound and rhythm of the haiku is an integral part of its beauty. Play with different word combinations and arrangements to create a harmonious flow.
• Seek inspiration from nature: The haiku has a deep connection to the natural world. Draw inspiration from the changing seasons, the sights and sounds of nature, and the interconnectedness of life.

How to Read Haiku

To fully appreciate a haiku, it is important to read it slowly and attentively. Allow the words to sink in and evoke the images and emotions that the poet intended to convey. Consider the arrangement of the lines, the juxtaposition of words, and the overall rhythm of the poem.

Questions and Answers

• What is the purpose of a kireji in a haiku?
  To create a sense of separation between the two parts of the poem, highlighting the contrast or tension between them.
• What is the traditional way to write a haiku in Japanese?
  In three lines, with a 5-7-5 syllable count, respectively.
• Who is considered the master of haiku poetry?
  Matsuo Bashō

Conclusion

Writing haiku in Japanese is an art that requires patience, observation, and a deep connection to the natural world. By following these tips and immersing yourself in the study of haiku, you can unlock the beauty and depth of this timeless poetic form.

Please remember to respect the copyright of others and always give credit to the original author when sharing or reproducing poetry. Together, let us celebrate the enduring legacy of haiku and the transformative power of words.