Waka Poetry Part II
More Waka Poetry. Each is its own poem, not necessarily related to the others.
“Waka translates simply to “Japanese poem,” but for most of us with a passing acquaintance with Japanese poetry, we’re more likely to think of haiku as the true poetry of Japan. While it is true haiku was the predominant form of Japanese culture, and certainly most recognized by non-Japanese, waka inspired it. It was an art form, first begun in the 8th century CE, which continued in popularity through the modern era.
The night sleeps again
Sunrise lifts human blindness
Hands stretch across time
Seeing is not believing
Rumi speaks sunset arrives
The Tanka form of waka completely inspired the syllabic form of haiku. The first three lines are 5-7-5, and the poem ends with two 7-7 lines. By merely cutting off the ending lines, we arrive at haiku.
River almost still
A heart beating quickly
Mind needs to slow down
A breeze tickles the tall grass
The grass returns to its post
Mikao Usui, who initiated the modern movement of Reiki, technically named, The Usui System of Natural Healing, was a writer of Waka Poetry and studied many old, famous Waka poems as part of his spiritual training.
I breathe a half breath
Confusion breeds illusion
Dry tears shake my grip
The river does snot know lies
Cool tranquil waters refresh
What is the next step?
I can’t wait and do nothing
Tadpoles scurry about
The frog sits home unmoving
Speed takes much time and effort
It will not happen
Hug the hate and fire will cease
Fire is an old friend
Hugs last longer than hate
Truth lives in The Soul’s pure water
Michael Swerdloff
Providence Holistic Counseling Services
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