Haiku – An introduction
-G.Ramasubramanian, Head (Training), Excel HR
Haiku if a Japanese poetry form, which is unique in it’s structure, philosophy and contents. It is so fascinating, that it is adapted by most of the world’s prominent languages, with the same name!
Structure:
Generally , a Haiku poem consists of three lines and seventeen words. (This seventeen words rule is not in practice in other languages, but the three lines are a must). These three lines form a two part relationship ( either the first two lines with the last or last two lines with the first ) with each other, which is complimentary although projecting different or contrasting stimuli. A technique which is called the cutting technique, is used to present this contrast in such a way, that is delightful and brings the vivid images, which the poet wants to transfer to the reader’s mind.
Philosophy:
The Haiku poem tries to capture the present moment awareness of the poet, in it’s three lines. It tries to project what is, as it is… This present moment awareness , a moment which the poet experiences , may be in a tea shop, or while commuting in the electric train,or a tranquil moment with night’s moon, or a capturing moment amidst the hills and valleys, beaches, or a frozen moment where he sees a crying child, a purse full of money, or what ever else it is, should be captured and spelled by the poet.
And THE most important rule is, that present moment awareness should not be contaminated by poet’s own interpretations. Hence there should be no advice, notions, implications and judgements by the poet. The present moment awareness devoid of all these contaminations, when given a haiku form, becomes such a wonderful vehicle, capable of rendering the very same experience, which the poet had to the reader.
Application:
A Haiku moment can happen only when we become aware of the present. For that to happen, getting away from the regrets of the past and the anxieties of the future are a must. When the mind’s chatterings of the past and future are neutralized, we get to experience the present moment, without any clouding. And this gives a “aha “ or Haiku moment, which can be caught in a haiku form. By being exposed to haiku, we get inspired to write haiku. While doing that, we subtly learn to position ourselves to the only reality available : NOW. While we can capture that now, we calm the chattering of the mind, learn to appreciate life better and of course find the source on inherent happiness and joy.
An Example of a Haiku by the famous Haiku poet Basho: savour it.
An Ancient pond
A frog leaps in...
sound of water....
Work Shops:
Haiku workshops are conducted for corporates and the general public by Excel HR , where the participants get exposed to the history and philosophy of Haiku and are encouraged to write Haikus. For further details please contact Excel HR at 9444128486 or 044-24984195.
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