This poetry class will focus on the haiku form. The “hai” syllable in the word “haiku” connotes “play,” both in the sense of drama, or theatrics, and of recreation and enjoyment, or playfulness. Since “ku” denotes “word,” or “verbal component,” we will enjoy playing around with words in our haiku crafting process. To begin this enjoyable process, we will celebrate the winter holiday season by reading seasonal haiku by the traditional Japanese masters of the form, beginning with Matsuo Bash?. Their inspiration, combined with writing prompts and activities, will lead to unique haikus that we can share with each other for constructive feedback. Our goal is to produce some verses that can be inscribed on cards to celebrate the winter holiday season.

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