Haiku is a language of the mind and heart. It requires both the unique skill of painting a descriptive image in as few words as possible and connects those words to emotions so deep it evokes a response from the reader. As a form of poetry originally written in Japan, haiku has undergone many transformations to become the type we read and write today. Whether a tanka, renga, kasa no renga, or senryu, haiku has many faces that can all accomplish evoking emotion and providing great detail for its reader. Traditionally haiku has two verses that are similar with one straying from the other two but connecting two ends of the puzzle to still form a complete picture. There is also a kigo (seasonal word) present in one of the lines to give the reader a sense of place where he/she can then build the picture from.

starless night. . .

I find them

in your eyes

            Chmiel

Haiku can be passionate or fearful, it can bring joy or sorrow, it can spur curiosity or inferiority, but most importantly, it evokes emotion. Emotion is a trade that defines us as humans so it is up to us to share this feeling with the people around us as well as future generations as we live our individual lives experiencing different emotions each day. This was my goal when compiling these works so I hope they speak to you as much as they did to me when scribing them. Enjoy!