Friday, June 23, 2006

Haiku and Tanka Needed

Promise of Light Publications is seeking
submissions of superb haiku and tanka for a book.



I should clarify something. The haiku and tanka we seek are what’s known as the traditional English haiku and tanka, consisting of 5-7-5 and so on. I appreciate the fact that many North American authors have their own perspectives on how many English syllables a haiku should contain, and have indeed changed the way haiku is written in English today. But regardless of differences in languages, a 5-7-5-written haiku can be just as powerful and effective as any variation of the form I’ve seen. And although haiku written in English has evolved from 5-7-5, and truth seems to be the motivator in such transformations, when an author’s word choices are of high caliber, the nature theme is there with some humanistic quality, the traditional form shines.

This is not an opening statement for debate. It is, however, this editor’s opinion and should be taken into account when submitting poetry in these forms.

1 Comments:

Blogger westcoastmama said...

I agree wholeheartedly. This is in fact the definition of haiku and tanka and what is expected in promise of light. It is not to separate or discriminate against those who have taken some liberties with the form, but it is a way in which to promote and present the true form

1:34 AM  

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