Happy International Haiku Day

Haiku by Aspasia S. Bissas

Darkness unfurling 

Weary, bruised, the sun retreats 

Rest for tomorrow

It’s International Haiku Day today! You might remember being taught in English class that a haiku is a poem consisting of three lines, with five syllables in the first line, seven in the second, and five in the third. Traditional haiku are about nature or “ephemeral beauty,” but not every writer follows tradition.

My first poem (above) was inspired by a challenge to write a haiku about “unfurling” (I wrote it before I realized we weren’t supposed to use the word “unfurling” in it– oops). The next poem was inspired by a friendly dog that used to show up in our yard, looking to play. It turned out he belonged to the neighbours (he and they have since moved).

Haiku 2 by Aspasia S. Bissas

Sad dog in our yard,

Barking an invitation.

Where do you belong?

Poetry not your thing? I’ve got you covered– download my novel and short stories:

Love Lies Bleeding: Smashwords (all formats), Barnes & Noble, Kobo, Apple Books
FREE Blood Magic: Smashwords (all formats), Barnes & Noble, Kobo, Apple Books
FREE Tooth & Claw: Smashwords (all formats), Barnes & Noble, Kobo, Apple Books

If you prefer paperback, use this link to order Love Lies Bleeding from Bookshop – a portion of each sale goes directly to independent bookstores, as well as to myself. Thank you for supporting indie! ♥

Find out more about International Haiku Day here.

Find out more about haiku poetry here.

Cheers,

Aspasía S. Bissas