The Philosophy of Haiku

1. The Philosophy of Haiku

2. Previous Knowledge • It’s a three-line Japanese poem, and the syllables for each line go 5-7-5 • Some legendary poets, such as Bashō, may vary the syllables per line; you, however, may not

3. Definition of and Characteristics that perhaps you didn’t know… • Haiku is about one’s interaction with nature or contemplation of or witness to an event. • The speaker is tranquil, thoughtful, aware, dreamy; he might make connections or draw parallels

4. It is an ancient art, written vertically in calligraphy Characteristics

5. Characteristics • it depends on perception, awareness, and suggestiveness • they’re always in the present tense because they have to be “of the moment”; the poet is watching something or doing something • Because each word is important, they are often read twice

6. Characteristics • They’re often slightly ambiguous so that different readers can bring their own perceptions to it • No rhymes, but the lines demonstrate enjambment, as the whole thing is one sentence or thought

7. Characteristics • No titles, but the author’s name may appear as the title or as a red seal

8. Characteristics • And there is often art that accompanies the words

9. Famous Japanese Poets • Matsuo Bashō (1644 to 1694) (popular Jeopardy answer) • Yosa Buson (this is his grave)

10. Let’s watch a haiku • http://www.npr.org/2013/04/12/176913038/short-and-sweet-celebrating-d-c-s-cherry-blossoms-with-haiku • http://www.npr.org/2013/04/12/176913038/short-and-sweet-celebrating-d-c-s-cherry-blossoms-with-haiku

11. Let’s look at some • Come get the handout!

12. Assignment • Write either 3 haiku or 2 haiku and 1 tanka • put all 3 on one page • there must be art/decorations or some sort • PLEASE pay attention to rules for syllables, subject, style, and effect • Fashion a Japanese pen name for yourself to put before each poem like on the sample handout (don’t choose Pikachu or Totoro!) • Due __________________