Yet in those three lines, with only a total of 17 syllables, the poet must conjure up a complete world that evokes both a scene and an action. The poet achieves haiku when this scene, which is ordinarily quite mundane, reveals a spiritual inner quality.
Some Japanese authorities on the subject contend that there must be a word in the poem that describes a certain season of the year. While others feel that it is important to recognize that this gift from Japan has developed several offspring forms where it has taken root in other cultures and therefore cannot always be criticized by Japanese standards.
As for myself, I have found that the traditional physical form becomes an intellectual excercise. Such a formal structure compels me to consider my feelings carefully. Then identify my concern. Next, describe the moment. Finally, discern the message. If I am successful, then we have a new haiku.
In any case, my humble attempts are offered here for your enjoyment
and contemplation. For further understanding of Haiku, please visit
the The
Shiki Internet Haiku Salon. There you will find articles on both
its development and history, as well as many examples of truly fine
Haiku.
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