Tanka Poem

Introduction

Tanka poems are a Japanese form of poetry with a syllabic line pattern of 5-7-5-7-7. They were often written as letters between lovers. Below I have posted one of the Tankas I’ve written! Let me know what you think, and if you end up giving it a try yourself, please post it in the comments! I’d love to see what kinds of poetry you all write!

The [currently untitled] Poem

I leave the window

open. So the room will smell

like rain, or like you.

You smell like the falling leaves.

You smell like what’s unopened.

Conclusion

Give poetry writing a shot even if you don’t think it’s your best form. It can tell you a lot about word choice and what’s left unsaid!

Thanks for reading and, as always, happy writing!