Haiku - GCSE English Language Definition

Definition

A haiku is a traditional Japanese poem that consists of 17 syllables, in three lines, almost always following the same pattern. A haiku will have five syllables in the first line, seven in the second, and five again in the third and final line. 

Explanation

Haiku poems first emerged in Japanese literature in the 17th century, although they did not go by the name haiku until the 19th century. They originated from a Japanese genre of poetry called renga, acting as an opening part of these larger poems. They were known then as hokku, but began to be written as standalone poems, rather than just as an opening stanza, and were renamed haiku by Japanese writer Masaoka Shiki. 

Traditionally, the haiku focuses on capturing a moment in nature or daily life, using concise and direct language to express a point and paint a picture in a simple form. 

The Japanese haiku structure is centred around the number of phonetic units known as on. With no direct equivalent in the English language, it has become common that the English haiku is a 17-syllable poem. This retains the need to pick words carefully and evoke the spirit of the original haiku, in which ideas are expressed concisely. 

There are other aspects to the haiku that have been seen traditionally, but are not known as well as the syllable and line forms. Haiku poems would include a kigo, which is a seasonal reference to connect each poem to a particular time of year or season. Cherry blossoms might be used to represent spring, whereas winter may feature bare trees or snow.

Many haiku also contain a kireji or cutting word. This is used to create a pause in the poem, maintaining the deliberate and calm pacing of the haiku, and can usually be found at the end of the first or second line. Sometimes in English translations, the pause may be shown with a full stop or a dash, but writers do find creative ways to include the stop. 

Ideally, the subject of haiku focuses on the natural world. Most traditional topics include weather, plants, animals, and seasonal changes. The poems are used to capture a moment in time, and to help readers see ordinary things in new, thoughtful and pensive ways. 

Haiku is generally written with imagery rather than abstract ideas, and looks to evoke feelings with that imagery to convey emotions. For example, a haiku may describe “autumn leaves falling” rather than saying “I feel sad” so that the imagery tells us the message. This can make the poems more vivid, capturing how different sights can have different meanings. 

One aspect of haiku that makes it more challenging, but also useful for study, is the precision required of the writer, due to the brevity of the form. By being forced to consider syllables and sentence length, no words can be used without thought of impact. This can lead to surprising and poignant results. With a tight framework to write within, poets must distil complex thoughts and feelings into just three lines and 17 syllables. 

Example

Delightful display

Snowdrops bow their pure white heads

To the sun's glory.

This haiku comes from the poet Paul Holmes’ A Year in Haiku. Here we see the standard 5-7-5 syllable pattern of haiku in English. It also follows classic haiku features, capturing a specific moment in nature, with concrete and simple imagery. 

The haiku creates a vivid scene, one the reader can easily recognise and visualise, without explicitly explaining its meaning. Each aspect can be imagined by the reader, thinking of the fall of snow, the sun that rises over snow-laden fields, the peace and calm of a scene in nature. 

In GCSE literature, haiku may appear in poetry anthologies or be used to illustrate various poetic forms. Some contemporary English-language poets also adopt the haiku format in their writing.

When analysing haiku in exams, pay close attention to the imagery and how the poet makes use of the poem’s strict syllable limit. Think about the specific moment the poet has chosen to depict and why it holds importance.

Why do writers use haiku?

Writers are drawn to haiku for both practical and creative reasons. Its strict structure offers a useful framework that encourages concise expression.

The limited syllable count requires careful word choice, often resulting in language that is more precise and impactful. Writers must strip away anything unnecessary and focus only on what truly matters.

Haiku is ideal for capturing brief, often overlooked moments. It encourages close attention to nature and everyday life, helping writers highlight the beauty in the ordinary. It can be meditative and mindful, giving reader and writer a connection to a peaceful scene. 

The short form also makes it easier to express complex emotions. Instead of long explanations, feelings are communicated through clear, simple imagery, more concise and direct, and leaving a deep impression on the reader. 

Many writers value how accessible haiku feels. Its brevity makes it less daunting than longer poetic forms, opening the door for beginners to explore poetry without feeling overwhelmed. It can be accessed at almost any age, to express simple ideas and complex ones. 

The traditional emphasis on nature helps connect both writer and reader to the natural world. In a fast-paced modern life, haiku invites us to slow down and appreciate small, meaningful details.

Haiku also gives poets a chance to explore minimalism, challenging them to create strong effects with very few words, which can help writers learn to express themselves more precisely. 

Finally, the mindful nature of writing haiku appeals to many. It requires presence and attention, making the act of writing both calming and creatively fulfilling.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a haiku?

A haiku is a traditional Japanese poem that typically has three lines and follows a 5-7-5 syllable pattern (5 syllables in the first line, 7 in the second, 5 in the third). It's known for being short but expressive, often capturing a brief moment in time.

Do all haiku have to follow the 5-7-5 syllable pattern?

Traditional haiku always follow the 5-7-5 pattern, and this remains the most recognised form. However, some modern English-language poets write shorter haiku with fewer syllables.

The reason for this difference is that Japanese and English work differently. Japanese syllables are more uniform in length than English syllables. Some poets argue that strict syllable counting in English doesn't capture the spirit of traditional Japanese haiku.

For GCSE purposes, stick to the traditional 5-7-5 pattern. This is what examiners expect when they ask about haiku structure.

Can haiku be compared to other poems in the anthology?

Absolutely. Haiku can be compared to longer poems in terms of:

• Use of imagery (e.g., comparing natural imagery in a haiku to that in Wordsworth or Heaney)

• Tone and mood

• Themes of time, memory, or observation

• Comparisons of language use, like minimal or elaborate

These comparisons help students explore how different forms express similar ideas, and how structure influences meaning.

What subjects can haiku write about?

Haiku can be about a wide range of subjects. Traditionally, haiku focused on nature, the seasons, and small, quiet moments in everyday life. Classic haiku often include a seasonal reference and highlight a natural image, such as falling leaves, a sudden breeze, or birdsong.

In modern times, haiku has expanded to cover many more topics. Poets now write haiku about city life, emotions, relationships, technology, and social issues. Anything that captures a brief moment or a strong image can be the subject of a haiku.

Whether it’s a peaceful scene in a garden, the noise of traffic, the feeling of loneliness, or the simple act of drinking tea, haiku can turn ordinary experiences into meaningful reflections. The key is to focus on a single moment and express it clearly and simply.

Why is haiku so popular in schools?

Haiku is accessible at different ages and writing ability. It can teach children about syllables, and gives them an introduction to poetry in a short form. For older students, it is a fantastic way to teach writers how to be more concise and deliberate in their words, showing them how to be creative and powerful with their choices when writing. 

Sources:

https://hellopoetry.com/poem/166158/a-year-in-haiku/ (opens in a new tab)

Related glossaries 

Analogy

Form

Imagery

Metaphor

Related revision notes

Poetry: Writer’s Methods & Techniques

Approaching the Unseen Poetry Question