Haiku: The Earth-Friendly Poetic Form
Is one form of poetry “greener“, that is more environmentally friendly than, another? Today I will assert that Haiku is environmentally friendly poetry. Why?
- Well, for one-thing, this form is by its very essence sustainable: At 3 lines, 17 syllables, nothing is wasted.
- Also, Haiku is rooted in nature. Each poem connects us to nature and human nature.
- And finally, and most importantly, Haiku is poetry of awareness. It demands present-moment connection with self and the natural world. I believe that the more we operate from this perspective, on the page and off, the more likely we are to behave in Earth-friendly ways.
In honor of Earth Day Month, I invite you to try your hand at Haiku. Oh, and don’t worry overly much about the syllable count. Aim for a short poem, in which you show (rather than tell) of a moment when you really experienced the natural world and your connection to it. And in that last line, add a little twist or surprise.
Here’s a Haiku I wrote for Earth Day back in a few years back.
April Haiku
Pink and white blossoms
puddle on the sidewalk,
springtime drought.
Reblogged this on Don’t Call it Poetry.
Much-needed rainfall
Pollen-covered cars washed clean
Thirsty new-growth drinks.
Thank you Riva! I love that you were inspired to write and post your Earth Day Haiku.
On the Great Lawn
offer a wafer for the half moon
Jane says Let’s go
with love,
two J”s
(#surprised?!!)
Yes, what a beautiful surprise! I love your Haiku!