Definition of a Haiku
A haiku is a traditional form of Japanese poetry that consists of three lines with a syllable pattern of 5-7-5. It originated in the 17th century from the hokku, the opening stanza of a collaborative linked-verse poem called renga. Haiku captures a fleeting moment or image from nature, often evoking a sense of wonder or seasonal change, and typically includes a kireji (a cutting word for juxtaposition) and a kigo (a seasonal reference).
Key Elements of a Haiku
The core principles of haiku include its concise structure, which limits expression to essential imagery, and its focus on the present moment. Unlike Western poetry, haiku avoids rhyme and meter in favor of syllable count and relies on suggestion rather than explicit statement. The juxtaposition of two images often creates a deeper philosophical insight, emphasizing impermanence (mono no aware) and harmony with nature.
Example of a Haiku
A famous haiku by Matsuo Bashō illustrates the form: 'An old silent pond / A frog jumps into the pond— / Splash! Silence again.' This 17th-century example uses the 5-7-5 structure to depict a sudden disruption in tranquility, highlighting the transient nature of sound and stillness in a natural setting.
Significance and Applications of Haiku
Haiku holds importance in literature for promoting mindfulness and simplicity, influencing global poetry and therapeutic writing practices. In education, it teaches observation and concise expression; in modern applications, English-language haiku adaptations expand its reach while preserving its essence, appearing in anthologies, environmental advocacy, and creative writing workshops.