Meaning and Definition of Haiku | Concept and What is.

What is Haiku?

The Haiku, poetic form, coming from Japan, is a small poem which generally consists of 17 syllables which are divided into 3 verses, the first of 5 syllables, the second of 7 and the last 5 again; traditionally speaks of nature and its phenomena, although occasionally covers other subjects of life.

Arises from the "Hokku", i.e., of the introductory part or first part of the so-called "Tanka" or longer poem which originates in the improvisation of a group of poets.

The poet Matsuo Basho, considered the father of Haiku, defined it in the following manner, "Haiku is just what is happening in this place, at this time." In other words, the Haiku is a short poetic form that seeks to describe a scene or a picture, whether real or imaginary.

In most of the cases its content makes reference to some of the seasons of the year, each of which is associated with elements that are frequently mentioned. In the case of the spring refers to the flowering of certain trees as plums and cherry trees, birds singing and the 7 characteristics of spring flowers. The summer will remind some insects, as well as also the stormy rains and crops. In the case of the autumn mentioned elements saved relationship with rice crops and certain birds such as herons and ducks. Finally, in the winter cold, snow and fog the protagonists become this literary form so focused on the beauty of nature.

The simple and clear character of the Haiku is essential in order to understand it, is more does not possess neither the title nor the rhymes and you can do without both punctuation and capitalization. It is this simplicity that did become the artform which would better represent the philosophy of Zen Buddhism, which is universal in that simpler.

Translated for educational purposes.