Haiku is a traditional form of Japanese poetry. It has strict rules that govern the number of lines and syllables in the poem. Each Haiku consists of 3 lines, the first line with 5 syllables, the second with 7, and the third with 5 syllables. Typically, each Haiku is a single sentence that combines a concrete image of time and place with a vivid observation. Together, the two images work to evoke a certain mood and emotion within the reader.

Here’s an example of a Haiku by the poet Basho who lived in 17th century Japan and is considered by many to be the master of this form of poetry.

Now the swinging bridge
Is quieted with creepers
Like our tendrilled life

Often Haiku contain images of nature intersecting with the lives of the speaker in a way that leads to some sort of revelation. This poem by another Japanese poet Issa presents spring and a love song followed by an observation of being alone - most likely because the speaker also feels alone surrounded by signs of love.

A flowering plum
and a nightingale’s love song
he remains alone

How to Write a Haiku

1. Think of an image. Try to think of specific details, concrete images to describe. Write down words and thoughts provoked by the image.

2. Keep it simple. Organize your ideas and thoughts into the form of the poem.

Line 1 - 5 syllables

Line 2 - 7 syllables

Line 3 - 5 syllables

Try to begin by setting the place or time. Give a concrete example.

A flowering plum

Follow that by expressing a thought or emotion (though it’s not always necessary to say the feeling, but rather create it). Notice in Issa’s poem, the second line

and a nightingale’s love song

Notice he doesn’t say something like There’s love in the air or anything cliche like that, but simply gives another quick concrete idea or image - in this case a nightingale’s love song. In any case, combine the bird’s love song with the flowering fruit in the first line and the reader is left with feelings of love, spring and renewal.

The third line brings these observations of the natural world into sync with feelings from the speaker’s life by giving a simple observation:

he remains alone

This line should evoke in the reader a scene of the speaker observing these other things, yet observing these signs of love and spring while being alone in his own life.

3. Short, simple, sweet.

The Haiku may be one of the shortest forms of poetry, but it’s compact form serves to create some powerful images in the reader when done correctly. Good luck with your own Haiku writing efforts!