On Haiku as an art form, a skill elevator, and a lifestyle
5 minute Read Time
LEM Haiku is deeply rooted in the natural world—but your language seems to do more than observe.
HF I consider myself a “traditional” haiku poet, adhering to 3 lines with 17 total syllables, which gives me the structure I enjoy. I try to include nature in each poem but find other influences just as worthy—some may call a narrative work a “senryu” instead, but to me the definitive terms are far less important than the work itself.
LEM What environments shape your haiku? The Physical, the internal? Do you write from weather, ritual, urban soundscape, dream terrain? I’m curious to hear what surrounds your work.
HF I strive to include three equal elements in my work: inspiration, craft, and what I call “significance.” Inspiration comes from anywhere/anytime, as most poets know. Of course, “craft” comes from life experience and education, both academic and personal (I’m a voracious reader).
Finally, “significance” refers to the WHY a reader would appreciate a piece; likewise, a deep dive into what exactly I’m trying to say. I find that all these elements are critical and surprisingly difficult to achieve in haiku. Sometimes, it takes me months or even years to reach my goals for a single poem.
LEM What’s a haiku (your own or someone else’s) that you return to again and again?
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