Book of Haikus by Jack Kerouac, 2003

Wed, 12 Sep 2007 07:01:23 GMT

Book of Haiku

Jack Kerouac

Edited by Regina Weinreich

Penguin Books, 2003

"Above all, a Haiku must be very simple and free of all poetic trickery and make a little picture and yet be as airy and graceful as a Vivaldi Pastorella."

This quote from the great man himself, about sums it up. While he doesn't follow the traditional Japanese Haiku which use the 5, 7, 5 syllable rule, he has managed to define his own style and capture a Western flair. This in turn has opened up the world of Haiku to me and no doubt others to have a try.

The Haiku takes me back to primary school and my very first introduction to writing poetry. I remember it well. Taupaki Primary, 1979. We had just moved into the new open plan school, leaving behind our old rundown 100 year old school house (I actually quite liked the old school), and I sat by the door. I had a beautiful view of the playground and of Kauri and Rimu tree's around the field in the distance.

On the very first day, a Swallow had built its nest right outside the door, hanging from the beam. We were instructed not to touch it, but watch and observe as the Swallow went about her business. This was one of the highlights of school...writing Haiku and seeing the Swallow flit in and out of the nest, a bit like my daydreams at the time. She raised two beautiful chicks. I was blessed to watch both of them take the plunge and leave the nest...something I longed to be able to do.

I watch

you come and go

I am in awe

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Book of Haikus by Jack Kerouac, 2003