A haiku is a short poem made up of three lines that do not rhyme. It is intended to be read in one breath.

It has a total of 17 syllables:

5 syllables in the first line,
7 syllables in the second line,
5 syllables in the third line

Remember, a syllable is like a beat – so the word ‘haiku’ has two syllables (hai-ku) and the word syllable has three (syll-a-ble). Clap it out if you need to!

The haiku form was originally from Japan, and is usually used to capture a moment, almost like a word–photograph. They are very descriptive, rather than being an explanation or story. Originally the haiku was written about nature and the seasons, you can write about any theme you like: family, friends, home, people, school, your neighbourhood – whatever you like!

Here are some examples for inspiration:

The streets are shining
The rain has polished the tar
Rubbish soon returns.

***

Shouts and laughs at break
The boys running, girls talking
The bell rings too soon.

And some other lovely ones by FunDza Fanz:

A bird flies sweetly
On paper wings telling all
Of my love for you

– by Nkanyiso Bonginkosi Biyela

A flurry of wind
blew the fat mama away
At the taxi rank

– by Mbali Nhlumayo

Now write two or three of your own haikus.