The Timeless Beauty of Haiku: A Reflection of the Now

Haiku is a unique form of poetry originating from Japan. These intricate works of art capture fleeting moments in nature, often reflecting the ephemeral nature of life itself. Haiku poets delve into the essence of the present, urging readers to pause and observe the world around them with a fresh perspective.

Exploring the Essence of Haiku

Haiku artistry lies in its simplicity and depth. Each poem is composed of three unrhymed lines, typically totaling 17 syllables: 5-7-5. Within these constraints, poets encapsulate profound emotions and philosophical musings. The technique of focusing on a singular subject or event, and capturing it in a moment, helps us to appreciate the beauty of what is often overlooked.

Haiku serves as a reminder to be present, inviting us to contemplate the world in the 'now.' By distilled language, it evokes a sense of timelessness, making past and future recede into the background. As Iso well said, 'The sands of time are slipping through our fingers, yet some people are truly alive, while many merely exist.' Through haiku, writers aim to stir feelings of joy, heartache, and everything in between, often conveying universal experiences that resonate deeply within us.

Personal Reflections on Writing Haiku

During the lockdown, I embarked on a journey of writing poetry, inspired by the seclusion and introspection it offered. Below are a few of my attempts at haiku:

Sands of time slipping, Through fingers some people live, Many just exist. I wish I could be, A bright star in the night sky, And fall at your wish. Late night on the roof, Old friends, good food, and some wine, Reminiscences. Chilly winter night, Hibernating animals, The cold beggar dies. Coronavirus, Mother Nature healing fast, Livelihoods destroyed. Lockdown commences, The rich kid takes the next flight, Poor labourer walks. Social Prescriptions, I carried upon myself, My brother walks free.

I invite you to provide feedback on these haikus. Your thoughts and critiques are greatly appreciated.

Haiku from Master Poets

Beyond my own efforts, I have also translated several famous haiku by Oriental masters. These timeless pieces encapsulate the profound wisdom and beauty found in nature and human interactions:

Title: The First Soft Snow, Loose Translation by Michael R. Burch from Matsuo Basho:

The first soft snow, Leaves of the awed jonquil, Bow low.

Title: Come Investigate Loneliness! Loose Translation by Michael R. Burch from Matsuo Basho:

Come investigate loneliness, A solitary leaf, Clings to the Kiri tree.

Title: The Cheerful-Chirping Cricket, Loose Translation by Michael R. Burch from Matsuo Basho:

The cheerful-chirping cricket, Contends gray autumns gay, Contemptuous of frost.

Title: Whistle on Twilight Whippoorwill, Loose Translation by Michael R. Burch from Matsuo Basho:

Whistle on twilight whippoorwill, Solemn evangelist of loneliness.

Title: Oh Fallen Camellias, Loose Translation by Michael R. Burch from Takaha Shugyo:

Oh fallen camellias, If I were you, Id leap into the torrent!

Title: I Remove My Beautiful Kimono, Loose Translation by Michael R. Burch from Hisajo Sugita:

I remove my beautiful kimono, Its varied braids surround And entwine my body.

Title: This Day of Chrysanthemums, Loose Translation by Michael R. Burch from Hisajo Sugita:

This day of chrysanthemums, I shake and comb my wet hair, as their petals shed rain.

Title: Right at My Feet! Loose Translation by Michael R. Burch from Kobayashi Issa:

Right at my feet, When did you arrive here, snail?

Title: I Toss in My Sleep, Loose Translation by Michael R. Burch from Kobayashi Issa:

I toss in my sleep, So watch out, cricket!

Title: In a Better World, Loose Translation by Michael R. Burch from Kobayashi Issa:

In a better world, I'd leave you my rice bowl, little fly!

Title: Alls Well with the World, Loose Translation by Michael R. Burch from Kobayashi Issa:

Allsx well with the world, another fly shares our rice!

Title: Cries of the Wild Geese, Loose Translation by Michael R. Burch from Kobayashi Issa:

Cries of the wild geese— Spreading rumors about men.

Title: Wake Up Old Tomcat, Loose Translation by Michael R. Burch from Kobayashi Issa:

Wake up old tomcat, Then elaborate yawns and stretchings, Prepare to pursue love.

Title: An Enormous Frog!, Loose Translation by Michael R. Burch from Kobayashi Issa:

An enormous frog, We stare at each other, Both petrified.

Title: Skinny Frog, Loose Translation by Michael R. Burch from Kobayashi Issa:

Each of these haiku captures a moment in time and offers a profound insight into the vagaries of life and nature. They are a testament to the enduring power of haiku to provide solace and understanding in an often confusing world.

Conclusion

Haiku is more than a form of poetry; it is a reflection on the beauty and complexity of life. By engaging with these works, we can learn to appreciate the richness of the present moment and find meaning in our experiences. Whether writing or reading, haiku offers a powerful lens through which to view our world.