Some Haiku

Here is a sampling of haiku from Haiku: An Anthology of Japanese Poems edited and compiled by Professors Stephen Addiss, Fumiko Yamamoto, and Akira Yamamoto from newly translated work as well as selections from other publications. An introductory essay provides a background about the origins of the 5-7-5 syllable verse or the free style haiku verse in Japan; haiku’s long legacy; humor and haiku; the way a particular verse has spawned numerous versions and playfully inspired satirical versions; and the technical aspects of translation. Throughout the book illustrations from artists in the 1600s-1800s, some also poets, add more beauty to the text.  At the end of the book are poets' and artists' biographies. The sections of the book divide into The Pulse of Nature, Human Voices, and Resonance and Reverberation.  Haiku might be useful to incorporate into teaching.  This book helps you think about whether or not you like haiku. Here are Haiku poems from this anthology for your enjoyment.

Even the clams

keep their mouths shut

in this heat.

  By Bashō  [lived 1644-1694] (p. 42)

Even in a single blade of grass

the cool breeze

finds a home

 By Issa  [lived 1763-1827] (p. 47)

Harvesting radishes,

he points the way

with a radish

By Issa (p. 108)

“Let’s pull them all”

says the dentist

generously

Anonymous  (p. 115)

Reference

Addiss, S., Yamamoto, F., Yamamoto, A. (2009). Haiku: An anthology of Japanese poems. Boston & London: Shambhala.