Haiku is a Japanese form of poetry that became popularized in the west. In Japanese, it is a single line consisting of seventeen mora (sound units). Because English is so different from Japanese, it is expressed in three lines. Therefore it is a short line (5 syllables), a long line (seven syllables), and another short line (5 syllables).
Haiku Format
There are varying types of haiku poetry. While all haiku follows the three-line, five-seven-five syllable pattern, each style of haiku is different.
For example, traditional haiku always has some reference to nature or one of the four seasons, even if it has to do with something other than seasons. Haiku that is meant to be humorous will can contain anything as long as it follows the format. This type of haiku is also referred to as pseudo-haiku.
Examples of Funny Haiku Poems
Many people enjoy reading humorous haiku poetry, some people actually read it on a daily basis. The following examples are from Haiku-O-Matic.
Example 1: my exploited duck
ruined by telepathy
you shall quack no more
Example 2: O beautiful pox!
Infection is an art form
pleasing to the eye.
Example 3: Why do I waste time
On freaking websites like this
When I need to work?
Of course all these poems are considered pseudo-haiku because they make no reference to nature. They are also humorous and interesting to read. To begin writing funny haiku, imagine a concept. Write the concept down. Envision something surrounding the concept that would be considered funny. For example, if the concept is buses and buses in a certain area may be to slow. A good idea for a funny haiku poem would be to write about how the buses are too slow.
Haiku for Kids
Children are often taught about haiku in English class either in elementary or middle school. Those who are home-schooled or whose parents wish to teach their kids sooner may be interested in haiku for kids.
The characteristics of haiku for children are as follows:
- Kid-friendly language – This means no swearing, foul, or questionable language or themes.
- Simple concepts – The concepts of the haiku must be understandable for children.
- Interesting themes – Depending upon the age of the child, they may prefer things with cats or dogs or maybe they enjoy video games.
Example: Why did the dog bark
so loudly that I could not
sleep soundly that night?
Haiku isn't just outdated Japanese prose, it's a well-loved art form throughout the world. Anyone can learn to write haiku and many people find it interesting to read.
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