It's Not A Haiku!!!
It's A Senryū
Introduction
Vocal had two recent Haiku Challenges, but I don't think one of the winners was a Haiku , I think almost every one was a Senryū.
Up til very recently I thought a Haiku was just a Japanese poem with seventeen syllables in a 5-7-5 line form, until a photographer friend Lee Sei-Macfhearchair
told me what I had written was Senryū, not Haiku
Here are the definitions with example poems:
Haiku:
A type of short-form poetry originally from Japan. Traditional Japanese haiku consist of three phrases that contain a kireji, or "cutting word",17 on (phonetic units similar to syllables) in a 5, 7, 5 pattern, and a kigo, or seasonal reference. Similar poems that do not adhere to these rules are generally classified as senryū.
Winter Is Leaving
Spring Is Now Coming Our Way
And Flowers Will Bloom
Senryū:
A Japanese form of short poetry similar to haiku in construction: three lines with 17 morae (or on, often translated as syllables). Senryū tend to be about human foibles while haiku tend to be about nature, and senryū are often cynical or darkly humorous while haiku are more serious.
Unlike haiku, senryū do not include a kireji (cutting word), and do not generally include a kigo, or season word.
Not A Haiku
No Kigo, No Kireji
Haiku It's Not
Conclusion
I know people will say I'm being pedantic but even Dr John Coope Clarke didn't get it right with his Haiku
Reader insights
Outstanding
Excellent work. Looking forward to reading more!
Top insights
Compelling and original writing
Creative use of language & vocab
Easy to read and follow
Well-structured & engaging content
Excellent storytelling
Original narrative & well developed characters
Expert insights and opinions
Arguments were carefully researched and presented
Eye opening
Niche topic & fresh perspectives
Heartfelt and relatable
The story invoked strong personal emotions
Masterful proofreading
Zero grammar & spelling mistakes
On-point and relevant
Writing reflected the title & theme
Keep reading
More stories from Mike Singleton - Mikeydred and writers in Poets and other communities.
Please Remember
Introduction Many of our Vocal friends are going through hard times for one reason or another. Please don't forget them, they are still part of our community and they will come back to share their creations with us and we will be so happy to welcome them back with open arms.
By Mike Singleton - Mikeydredabout a year ago in Poets
The Business of Nature
Dew drops reflected the light of the sun. The inhabitants of Whispering Woods woke up to the golden droplets of water on the leaves of the flora. The oaks particularly enjoyed the light and the maples did, too. Happiness enveloped all who lived there, even the rocks that cried out in the night delighted in the morning.
By Skyler Saunders4 days ago in Fiction
Comments (6)
I think I'll be more comfortable writing a Senryu than a Haiku, lol!
More Anarchy! Love it 🥰
I really have to agree with you. But I'm past caring as I gave up on Vocal. I'm just letting my sub expire this summer and I'll continue to coast, as I have been doing for the last... decade here. The original "OMNI Reboot" was a much better site.
If you want to get REALLY pedantic the first one isn't a haiku either, since the 'm' at the end of "bloom" would count as one on... maybe? :D I've seen people refer to the "cutting word" before but have never seen anyone define it. What does it actually mean?
Excellent and impressive information!!! Loving it!!!💕💖😊
Very interesting, Mike. I want to read more about Senryū. I did love both haiku winners, and enjoyed reading soooo many submissions.
This comment has been deleted