Haiku and Senryu part 2
I was in a hurry yesterday when I posted. I meant to add that while the traditional haiku is 17 syllables, modern haiku don't necessarily adhere to that strict form. They might go 6/8/6 or might be a good deal shorter. Modern Haiku and Senryu might not even follow the three line format at all.
Most modern Haiku consist of fewer than 17 syllables and are written in one, two, three, and four lines as well as a variety of shapes. Written in the present tense, a haiku focuses on nature, frequently includes or suggests a season word, and relates a moment of discover/ surprise with each line offering a distinct image. Also, within a haiku, a pivotal point shifts to another image, dividing the poem into two parts. The pivot generally occurs at the end of the first or second line. Traditionally humor was not a part of haiku.
A turtle floats
in water's edge.
A head
and a shadow.
Senyru are people poems. I've written many of them in the few years I've been writing poetry yet only now do I learn they are a separate form. I'll give you a few examples pulled from my archives. Again, there is not strict adherence to 5/7/5, though since I was working with the haiku format, most of them were written in 5/7/5.
going through the motions
pretending to be alive
dying deep inside
Poetry so small
each syllable expressing
meaning beyond sound.
nemesis rhythm
popping into my short poems
or hiding away
happy muse is gone
vacationing Bermuda
angsty muse is back
If you must have spam
spread ketchup, mustard, mayo.
Do not serve it plain.
this poem is for those
who brave my insanity
to come read my work
Those who love me true
are the only ones who come.
My poems I think, stink.
The muse is happy.
A fool? That is probably true.
But a happy fool.