What is a Haiku poem?

A Haiku is a traditional form of Japanese poetry that consists of three lines. It is known for its concise and structured style, with a specific syllable pattern. In a traditional Haiku, the syllable count for each line is 5-7-5, totaling 17 syllables in the entire poem.

The Haiku typically focuses on nature, the changing seasons, or a moment of contemplation. It often aims to evoke emotions, capture fleeting moments, and convey a sense of simplicity and beauty. Traditional haikus usually do not rhyme.

Here’s an example of a haiku:

A lonely cricket (5 syllables) Chirps beneath the harvest moon (7 syllables) Echoes in the night (5 syllables)

Read also: Consonance in poetry

Types of Haiku poem:

While the traditional 5-7-5 syllable pattern is the most well-known, there are several variations and types of haiku poems. Here are some common types:

1. Traditional Haiku: As mentioned earlier, this is the classic form with a syllable pattern of 5-7-5.
2. Modern Haiku: These haikus may deviate from the 5-7-5 syllable pattern and focus more on capturing the essence of a moment or emotion rather than adhering strictly to the traditional rules.
3. Three-line Haiku: Some modern haiku poets prefer to keep the three-line structure of a traditional haiku but use fewer syllables, such as 3-5-3 or 4-6-4.
4. One-line Haiku (Monoku): A haiku that is condensed into a single line, often retaining the 5-7-5 syllable pattern or variations of it.
5. Concrete Haiku: These haikus take a specific shape on the page, visually complementing the content of the poem.
6. Seasonal Haiku (Kigo): Traditional haikus often include a “kigo,” which is a word or phrase that indicates the season or time of year the poem is describing.
7. Nature Haiku (Shiki): Concentrates on nature themes, such as landscapes, animals, plants, or natural phenomena.
8. Human Haiku (Hito): Focuses on human experiences, emotions, and interactions.
9. Cutting Word (Kireji): In traditional Japanese haiku, a “kireji” is a cutting word that provides a pause or a shift in the poem, adding depth and contrast.
10. Contemporary Haiku: In modern literature, haikus have evolved to encompass various themes, styles, and formats, making them more diverse and flexible.