japanese poetry – Almost An Author

Today we are going to look at another short form of Japanese poetry known as tanka. The short form of this poetry, much like haiku, is great for any level poet, but especially beginners.

Tanka and haiku are technically different forms of poetry, but they are related. Some poets see tanka as an extended haiku because the first three lines take the same form. But others would disagree and maintain that they are two very distinct forms.

One difference concerning tanka is that the last two lines are 7 syllables each, making it a 5-line poem. Therefore it contains the syllabic pattern of 5, 7, 5, 7, 7.

Moreover tanka poems generally focus on a specific object or event to convey a mood or emotion through imagery and figurative language. In other words, the poems cover a broader field of subjects (not only nature) and can include some reflection as well.

The Shadow Poetry website offers a great explanation and examples of tanka.

As I noted before concerning haiku, be aware that tanka originated from Japanese culture so the form may be perceived and written a little differently in English. Obviously, I am explaining the English guidelines for writing these types of poems.

However, if you’re interested, Shadow Poetry covers some of the cultural and language differences. They also offer a host of resources for writing many kinds of poetry.

Now I’ll share my own tanka poem that started out as a haiku.

Purple irises

with proudly tall and green stalks

stand near the water.

Grass carpets the water’s edge.

And I, a lowly clover.

Honestly, I wrote this during a break at a writing conference while sitting by a pond surrounded by beautiful flowers. I was reflecting on how we can be easily discouraged and intimidated when surrounded by superstar writers or poets. So through imagery, personification and metaphor I attempted to convey that sense of inferiority.

Here are some tips to help you craft your own tanka:

*Try writing a haiku first and then adding the last two lines as reflection on your subject

*Use concrete images (relating to the five senses) that allow the reader to experience what you’ve experienced

*Choose vivid verbs and nouns but don’t forget to count syllables!

This article also has a great description, tips and examples for writing tanka.

[bctt tweet=”Short and sweet. Learn to write tanka poems. #poetry #poets”]

Now it’s your turn.

Next time when you are outside enjoying the beautiful weather or if you experience a meaningful event, jot down notes about it. Then see if you can transform that experience and emotion into a beautiful tanka to share with others.

Feel free to post your poems or questions in the comments below!

Haiku: Poetic Forms II

We’re going to explore a very short Japanese form of poetry known as haiku. This type of poem reflects a simpler side of Japanese culture.

And you know me. Simple is just my style.

A haiku poem consists of 3 lines with a pattern of syllables arranged in 5, 7, 5. Usually the lines don’t rhyme, but in this type of poetry, sounds are not as important as the imagery anyway. Typically the subjects of these poems are about nature but not always.

When I write haiku, I personally focus on a natural scene that touches me in a unique way. Nature has a way of speaking to a poet’s soul without using words.

So how do we take those impressions and translate them into poetry?

[bctt tweet=”Nature has a way of speaking to a poet’s soul without using words. #poets #poetry”]

First, when writing haiku, it’s always important to use vivid figurative language (such as a simile or metaphor) to paint a picture of whatever scene or object you are observing. And you should always use concrete imagery to describe your subject, meaning you need to use language that appeals to the five senses.

I suggest you jot down words and phrases about your subject using the above techniques. Then begin to arrange the words and phrases into lines.

Because the form limits you on lines and syllables, you have to choose your words very carefully. It might appear an easy poem to write, but don’t be fooled. You may find that it takes some extra thinking to arrange the right words in an order that will speak poetically.

The point is that you want to show the reader what impacted you in order to let them experience that same feeling or emotion. You don’t want to tell them. Hence the golden rule of writing in general.

There’s a great description and examples of haiku poetry on www.literarydevices.net and Shadow Poetry.com.

If you need a little more guidance, Creative Writing Now also has excellent tips for writing haiku poetry.

You should probably take note that because haiku came from Japanese culture and language, it may be perceived and written a little differently in English. I am only conveying the accepted English guidelines for writing this type of poetry.

However, if you’re interested, Shadow Poetry also covers some of the cultural and language differences. As a bonus, they offer a host of resources for writing many other kinds of poetry as well.

[bctt tweet=”Simple is just my style. Learn to write haiku poems. #poetry #poets”]

Now it’s your turn.

Take a walk or find a quiet place to sit and observe an area outside. What inspires you? Do you notice anything that creates a unique impression? See you if can jot a few observations and create a haiku.

Feel free to post your poems or questions in the comments below!