PANDEMIC DIARY

DO YOU HAIKU?
February 11, 2021

A haiku is traditionally a Japanese poem consisting of three short lines that do not rhyme. The origins of haiku poems can be traced back as far as the 9th century. A haiku is considered to be more than a type of poem; it is a way of looking at the physical world and seeing something deeper, like the very nature of existence. The standard format is counted in “mora” or units considered like syllables except in Japanese the intonations translate to differences in the classic 5-7-5 structure, as used here. Typically, the first two lines express two different related ideas. The third line might refer to nature, seasonal attributes, or spiritual abstractions. I have utilized, as well, ideas relating to the pandemic and experiences and thoughts related to our current circumstance. Haiku should leave the reader with a strong feeling or impression. Have you ever written a Haiku? Maybe you want to give it a try?

1. Wake up to sunlight
   Take endless walks…endlessly
   Wander not of heart.

2. I hold her hand near
   Did I disinfect with wipes?
   April’s showers bring…

3. Religious fervor
   Sweet mustard barbecue sauce
   Get them while you can.

4. Politicians lie
   Comedians make us laugh
   A three-humped Camel.

5. Disease, death, and doom
   Do not inhale; only exhale
   Feel the ocean’s spray.

6. Valentine’s Day soon
   Roses display Love’s layers
   How little time left.

7. Two plus two is four.
   At times it does not add up.
   The maze has us choose.

8. Jesus is Saviour
   Life is but a Purple Rain
   Apple Crumb Donuts.

9. Raspberry preserves
   Little seeds caught between teeth
   Rinse, gargle, and spit.

10. Pump air in your tires
    Dreaming of a White Pizza
    Naught’s perfectly round.

11. Ocean’s rolling waves
    Dolphins jolly leaping. Splash!
    Silence churns beneath.