A haiku is a traditional form of Japanese poetry composed of three lines. The first and third lines typically contain five syllables, while the second line contains seven syllables, following a 5–7–5 syllabic pattern. Haiku often reflect moments in nature or seasonal changes, capturing fleeting beauty and deep emotion in very few words.

Origin and Development

The term haiku derives from two Japanese elements: “hai,” meaning playful or humorous, and “ku,” meaning verse. The form as we know it today was popularised in the 17th century by the great Japanese poet Matsuo Bashō, whose work brought clarity, simplicity, and depth to the haiku tradition.

Bashō’s haiku followed the structure of 17 on (a phonetic unit in Japanese, roughly but not exactly equivalent to a syllable). These short verses were renowned for their cadence, subtlety, and rich connection to nature.

Although traditional haiku followed the 5–7–5 pattern rigidly, modern poets sometimes adopt more flexible formats such as 6–8–6 or 7–9–7, especially in English, where the sound structure differs from Japanese. Nonetheless, the essence of haiku remains its brevity, clarity, and evocative imagery.

Essential Features of Haiku

• Concise form: Three lines with a syllabic pattern (typically 5–7–5).
• Focus on nature: Most haiku centre around natural elements, seasons, or moments of change.
• Simplicity: Clear, unembellished language; emotional depth through minimalism.
• Kigo (seasonal word): A reference to the season or time of year is often included.
• Kireji (cutting word): A word or punctuation that provides a pause or shift in tone, adding tension or contrast.

Examples of Haiku

Here is a classic haiku in the 5–7–5 format:

The sound of rain
Falling on the leaves of trees
Is music to me

This haiku, inspired by Kobayashi Issa, showcases the tranquil relationship between sound and nature. It includes an implied kireji, offering a gentle shift in mood.

Another example, in the 6–8–6 format, avoids a strict syllabic count while retaining the spirit of haiku:

In the autumn sky
The leaves of the maple tree
Are red and gold

Written in the style of Mary Oliver, this modern haiku captures the serene imagery of a crisp autumn day. Notice the absence of a cutting word, common in contemporary haiku written in English.

Modern Haiku and Flexibility

While traditional Japanese haiku follow precise rules, English-language haiku are more flexible. Many contemporary poets prefer not to adhere rigidly to syllable counts, instead focusing on imagery, tone, and momentary insight.

Haiku can be written on any subject—whether it be a poignant reflection on life, an observation of the natural world, or a moment of personal clarity. Their brevity makes them particularly appealing to young writers and newcomers to poetry.

Why Try Writing Haiku?

Haiku offers a unique poetic challenge: to express something meaningful in very few words. Writing haiku enhances observation skills, encourages appreciation of simple things, and fosters a deeper connection with one’s surroundings.

Whether you are a seasoned poet or just starting out, crafting haiku is an enjoyable and rewarding way to explore creativity through constraint.

Haiku is more than just a poetic form—it’s a way of seeing. Through simplicity and stillness, it brings attention to the present moment. Give it a try; you might discover profound beauty in just three short lines.