HaikuHaikuGetting in touch with nature

HistoryHistory• Is a form of Japanese poetry• Consists of three metrical phrases of 5, 7, and 5

(syllables)• There is no rhyme scheme in a haiku• In Japanese they are written in a single line,

while in English they are presented as three lines

• They typically contain a “kigo” or seasonal reference

An Example!An Example!• The following is a video from a Japanese

television show that depicts a classic form of the haiku.

• As you watch listen to the number of syllables you hear in Japanese versus the number of syllables you would hear if it were translated into English.

• http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UiZTrPVh81A

A Modern Take on an Ancient A Modern Take on an Ancient PracticePractice

• Haiku’s have become more flexible over time and have there have been some changes to the classic form such as– The use of three or fewer lines– The use of 17 (575) syllables or fewer– Use of a kigo – A contrast in images

An Example!An Example!• “I woke up dead

And had brains for breakfastI wonder what’s for lunch”- Zombie Haiku

• How is this poem different than the classic form of haiku? (think about the definition of a haiku)

Looking at a haikuLooking at a haiku• Ex. – “The leaves fall like rain

I throw them up to the sunAnd the flames begin”- Unknown

• Ex. 2 – “Fingers still sticky

from cotton candywe hold hands”- Edward J. Rielly

Your turn!

• Write a classical haiku– This means it must follow the 575 syllable pattern

and must also make reference to something in nature.