What is a Haiku?
A Haiku is a type of short poetry that dates back to 17th century Japan. Traditional Haiku consist of three lines. The first must have exactly 5 syllables, the second must have 7 and the third must have 5. However, several 5-7-5 stanzas can be strung together to make a longer poem. Haiku do not have to rhyme, and often don’t however authors are free to use repetition of words. Authors may also choose if they use punctuation or not.
Examples
Roaming Rooster
crispy, crackly, crunch
marvel at u street murals
as you gladly chew
Nechama Masliansky Heart of DC Haiku Contest 2021 Winner
“My fridge is empty
To the rescue: Soupegirl
Salad, soup, and bread”
“1st Ode to Teaism” Heart of DC Haiku Contest 2021 Runner Up
Chai, have you ever
Sought a cure through a cup
Thirst for what matters
Longing for normal
Meant craving tea with sweet milk
And community
“An ode to my favorite dishes at Green Almond Pantry” Naomi Barry-Perez Heart of DC Haiku Contest 2021 Runner Up
A wheel of target green
Atop fluffy focaccia-
Parcels of delight.
Jammy yolk, laced with
Salty, briny anchovies
Party in my mouth
Tender cabbage chunks
Ooze heat, each bite brings comfort,
Nourishing my soul.
Airy whipped cream meets
Silky, sublime chocolate
Heave in a slice