Composing

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.