What is a haiku? The traditional view of the haiku is that it is a form of Japanese poetry written in three lines – often with five syllables in the first line, seven in the second, and five in the third. But there is more to haiku than syllable count. The Haiku Society of America defines it as ‘a short poem that uses imagistic language to convey the essence of nature or the season intuitively linked to the human condition’. Jack Kerouac declared that ‘above all else, a haiku must be very simple and free of all poetic trickery and make a little picture and yet be as airy and graceful as a Vivaldi pastorelle’.

This workshop will feature an introductory talk on the history and art of haiku – focusing on classical Japanese haiku poets Bashō, Issa, Shiki and Chiyo-Ni; beat poets Jack Kerouac and Diane di Prima; and modern masters of the form such as Nick Virgilio, Elizabeth Searle Lamb and Sean O’Connor. It will then explore methods of writing haiku, exploring concepts such as kigo (season words) and the notion of ‘moments of revelation’ . Participants will then embark on a ginko – or haiku walk – which will offer them a chance to compose their own haiku. This is a highly enjoyable way to create and share poetry.

Participants will be given a recommended reading list of haiku resources prior to the workshop. The only equipment needed for the workshop are a notebook, a pen, and open eyes.