Q&A for How to Write a Haiku Poem

Since haiku are traditionally about nature, you'd want to start by thinking about some natural things that are typically associated with Christmas—holly, perhaps, or pine trees. Just make a big list of natural things. You might also think about seasonal words associated with winter, such as snow. And, of course, you could always include the word Christmas (or a synonym, such as yuletide) directly in your poem. Have fun!

The short answer is that this is just how this particular poetry format evolved. However, despite what's often taught in Western schools, the 5-7-5 syllabic structure isn't a strict requirement of haiku. In fact, that structure doesn't even really equate to the original Japanese concept, which counts sounds rather than syllables.

Yes, haiku can have any punctuation that's necessary or that improves the flow of the poem. Haiku don't need any sort of punctuation at all, though (or even capitalization, for that matter)—whether you include it is entirely up to you as the poet.

Technically, yes. The whole point of a haiku is to paint a picture with words so that your reader can see and feel the moment. This isn't really possible unless you include sensory details to orient your reader.

You don't, really. Poetry is an art—there's not really such a thing as "correct" or "incorrect." If you're talking about whether your haiku fulfills the requirements of an assignment for school, then it would depend on how well you accomplished your teacher's objectives for the assignment.

No one really knows who the first person was to write a haiku, but Matsuo Bashō is widely considered the first master of the haiku form.

Yes, you have to write three lines in a haiku but they do not have to rhyme (unless you want them to).

It's supposed to be a simple message that captures a simple feeling, and leaves further reflection/imagination up to the reader. That's simply what this particular style was designed for. You are free to write a poem of any length and any syllable scheme you want - it just won't be called a haiku.

Haikus were created in Japan and originally called "haikai no ku," which translates to "light verse." That was eventually simplified to "haiku."

Yes, but it doesn't have to. Some haiku don't even adhere to the suggested syllable count.

There is no single type of poetry that is the most or least difficult. It depends on an individual's talents and several other factors.

Japan.

Look in a thesaurus for new words and keep writing them. The more you write and practice, the better they will be.

Traditionally, yes.

As with other written art forms, it could have a title or simply be "Untitled." Haiku with titles may be more memorable.

Haiku is a poem in 3 line form consisting of 17 morae (a unit of syllable weight or timing) arranged in 5-7-5 form. Being unfamiliar with the subtle nuances of timing of Slovak, Japanese, or Sanskrit, we usually say 17 "syllables". Haiku must be objective/universal, never subjective, and have a two-part juxtaposition. Cinquain is normally a 5 line stanza. The two didactic/school versions of the cinquain are 2-4-6-8-2 syllables; and noun-2 adjective-3 gerunds-1 phrase-synonym of the noun.

A haiku by definition is three lines. Poems don't have to be long in order to be meaningful.

In almost all cases, yes. There are some exceptions, however, as in the word "rhythm."

Five, then even, then five. How to write Haiku -- Spring to a new challenge -- Fleeting solutions.

"An old, silent pond. A frog jumps into the pond, splash! silence again."

According to the information on this page yes, it should describe something beautiful that you want to share with the rest of the world.

Yes, you can add commas in any place you want when the circumstances fit the comma rules.

Painting shows the world what the artist's eyes have seen by means of his hands. There, that's how. If you need more help, read the whole of this page, there is a lot of information and help for you.

Write a poem about something you care deeply about. Think about how it makes you feel, how you would describe it, and write accordingly.

No, it still has to follow the 5-7-5 syllable pattern. If you do not follow this pattern, it will not be identified as a haiku.

It is good but it may be too short. Maybe try it more like: As high as mountains, the knowledge flew through the sky, thanks to OHU. That said, it is just an opinion and you should go with what you think is best for you.

Because those are the parameters for haiku, much as a couplet has two lines.

It is traditional to use 5, 7, 5 syllables, but you do not have to. It is better to use the traditional.

Yes, it originated there and was originally called "haikai no ku," which translates to "light verse." That was eventually simplified to "haiku."

Writing a haiku is like writing any kind of poem: it can be a creative exercise, a gift for someone else, etc.