Haiku

A haiku is a tiny poem from Japan. It has just three lines, but it can say a lot. Haiku poems often describe nature or the seasons. People all around the world enjoy reading and writing haiku.

How to Write One

A haiku follows a simple pattern. The first line has five syllables. The second line has seven syllables. The third line has five syllables again. That adds up to seventeen syllables in total.

What They Are About

Most haiku poems describe something from nature. They might talk about a frog, a flower, or the moon. Haiku try to capture one small moment in time. They can make readers feel peaceful and thoughtful.

Fun Facts

• A poet named Matsuo Basho is one of the most famous haiku writers ever.
• Haiku poems are over 400 years old.
• Many haiku mention a season, like spring or winter.

Did You Know?

The shortest haiku in English can be read in just a few seconds, but it can take hours to write a good one.