How to Write a Haiku with Examples

A haiku is a traditional Japanese form of poetry that captures a moment, an image, or a feeling in just three lines. It emphasizes simplicity, precision, and sensory experience, often focusing on nature or the seasons. Writing a haiku requires attention to structure and meaning.

1. Understand the Structure

A haiku traditionally follows a 5-7-5 syllable pattern:

• Line 1: 5 syllables
• Line 2: 7 syllables
• Line 3: 5 syllables

Example:

An old silent pond
A frog jumps into the pond—
Splash! Silence again.
(By Matsuo Bashō)

2. Choose a Theme

Haikus often explore themes like:

• Nature: The beauty of the natural world.
  Example: Cherry blossoms, sunsets, rivers.
• Seasons: Reflecting a specific season or its changes.
  Example: Snowfall in winter, autumn leaves.
• Emotions: Capturing fleeting feelings or moments.
  Example: Loneliness, joy, nostalgia.

3. Focus on a Single Moment

Haikus aim to evoke a specific moment or scene. Think of it as a snapshot or a brief meditation.

• Example of a Moment:
  Watching a bird take flight at dawn.

4. Use Sensory Language

Appeal to the senses by describing:

• What you see: Colors, shapes, movement.
• What you hear: Sounds of nature, silence, or noise.
• What you feel: The temperature, textures, or emotions.

Example:

Morning dew glistens,
Spider webs catch the sunrise—
A fleeting jewel.

5. Incorporate a Seasonal Word (Kigo)

In traditional haikus, a kigo (seasonal reference) is often included.

Examples of kigo:

• Spring: Cherry blossoms, frogs, fresh rain.
• Summer: Cicadas, heatwaves, ocean waves.
• Autumn: Falling leaves, harvest moon, crisp air.
• Winter: Snowflakes, frost, bare trees.

6. Introduce a Twist or Juxtaposition

A good haiku often contrasts two images or ideas, creating a surprising or thought-provoking connection.

Example:

In the cold night air,
A wolf's howl cuts through silence—
Stars shimmer softly.

7. Edit for Simplicity and Impact

• Avoid unnecessary words or complex language.
• Focus on simplicity and clarity.
• Make every word count.

Examples of Haikus

Nature:

Wind sweeps through the pines,
Whispers echo through the woods—
Ancient secrets told.

Seasons:

First snow gently falls,
Covering the world in white—
Silence blankets all.

Emotions:

A lone bird takes flight,
Empty nest sways in the breeze—
A mother watches.

Final Tips

• Practice writing about simple, everyday moments.
• Read traditional haikus for inspiration.
• Experiment with the form but stay true to its essence: brevity and beauty.

By focusing on a moment, using vivid imagery, and following the 5-7-5 structure, you can craft a haiku that resonates with readers and captures the beauty of the world in just a few words.

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