What is a Haiku?
Three-line poem with 5, 7, and 5 syllables respectively.
Haiku: Three Lines of Poetry
Haiku is a traditional Japanese form of poetry. It is often taught as a creative writing exercise for its precision in language use and focus on imagery. Haiku consists of three lines, with the first and third lines having five syllables and the second line having seven syllables. Traditionally, haiku portray scenes in nature, expressing a clear emotion or insight. Haiku poets also often make use of a seasonal word or phrase to indicate when the poem takes place. In English, haiku may not follow the 5-7-5 syllable count exactly, but it should strive to capture the essence and simplicity of the form.
Haiku in Literature: Two Poetic Gems
Haiku is a featured format in literature, used with precision to capture images and ideas in minimal words.
Frog haiku by Matsuo Basho
An old silent pond, / A frog jumps into the pond— / Splash! Silence again.
Haiku by Kobayashi Issa
The snow is melting / and the village is flooded / with children.