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International Haiku Poetry Day is celebrated around the world on 17th April of every year. Haiku is a concise form of Japanese poetry. Three qualities typically characterize it, and it is often represented by the contrast of two images or ideas and is separated by verbal punctuation marks and colors. Traditional haiku consist of 17 syllables, in which three phrases are arranged 5, 7, and 5 on, respectively; the third quality is seasonal reference usually as an extensive but only defined list of terms are used. Haiku as a poetry genre has been adopted by many languages around the world. In Japanese, haiku are traditionally issued in a single vertical line while haiku in English often appear in three lines parallel to the three phrases of Japanese haiku. Modern Japanese haiku are increasingly taking nature as its subject.
“I guess haiku is an inspiration for me. Everyday, simple moments.” – Misha Collins
History of International Haiku Poetry Day
International Haiku Poetry Day was initiated as a project of The Haiku Foundation in 2012 and registered by Sari Grandstaff which occurs in the heart of the United States’ celebration of National Poetry Month. Traditionally haiku was called hokku, and the modern name haiku was given by the Japanese writer Masaoka Shiki in the 19th century. Renga or renku consists of an orthodox collaborative linked poem, and its opening stanza is called hokku. By the time of Matsuo Basho (1644–1694), the hokku had begun to appear as an independent poem and was also incorporated in haibun which was a combination of prose and hokku, and haiga which was a combination of painting with hokku.
Other Celebrations on April 17
April 17 is also celebrated as
- World Hemophilia Day
- National Bat Appreciation Day
- National Mustang Day
- National Cheeseball Day
- Nothing Like A Dame Day
- Blah Blah Blah Day
- Drum & Bass Day
- National Banana Day
How to Celebrate International Haiku Poetry Day
Anyone can observe International Haiku Poetry Day by attempting to write haiku poetry. Haiku is considered to be a way of living and experiences as a reliever from many life blocks, so it is essential for everyone to try writing haiku poetry on this day. Few collections of short films, created by individual poets, groups, and organizations, celebrate the diversity of haiku around the world. The heart of haiku day is meeting with fellow poets to read, write, and share poetry together, often in the context of a nature walk. The Haiku Foundation encourages public events, including readings, exhibitions, and competitions. One can also spend some time reading haiku and its history on this day. Post pictures and share your thoughts on social media about International Haiku Poetry Day by using the hashtag #HaikuPoetryDay.
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