How to compose classical haiku
I love haiku that imply, rather than describe. For instance, traditional haiku are supposed to mention a season somewhere in one line, but I prefer the implication of a season as it means I have to work harder for the words. I love contrasts, juxtapositions and a-ha moments. But best of all I love excellent use of the English language! Send me your haiku that take me beyond reality, that have something Other, that spark that fires my imagination…
Here at Pure Haiku I only publish classical haiku in the English language which are constructed in the strict syllabic structure of 5-7-5.
First line = 5 syllables
Second line = 7 syllables
Third line = 5 syllables
Here is an example: –
crystallisation-- timeless spaces embedded inside catharsis © Kerfe Roig
Line 1 – 5 syllables – cry-stall-is-a-tion
Line 2 – 7 syllables – time-less-space-es-em-bedd-ed
Line 3 – 5 syllables – in-side-cath-ar-sis
Here some more examples of haiku that I like to publish on this site: –
an echo repeats revealing infinity but still our time ends © Tina Stewart Brakebill 2021 stars dance through cloud-waves time’s chiliad rhythms beat, past and future merge © Merril D. Smith 2020 esoteric moves dances with divinity emancipation © Radhika Puttige 2020 swarming night insects instinct draws them to bright bulb an imminent death © Susi Bocks 2020 Of course, syllabic content is just part of what makes traditional haiku traditional. For a better idea of what I choose to publish on Pure Haiku, please read recent posts from the previous 2 years.
Please make sure you also read SELECTION PROCESS and SUBMISSION EMAILS before sending your haiku to me.
Updated March 2021
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