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Prose Poem + Haiku = Haibun NEW!

In this writing course, students will explore the haibun, a combination of two poetic forms: the prose poem coupled with a haiku. Haibun became known in 17th-century Japan, where it was popularized by the poet Matsuo Basho. The most interesting aspect of the form is the manner in which the haiku responds to the prose poem, offering an oblique commentary that intensifies its themes or offers a different perspective. Each session will include a brief lecture and discussion regarding these poetic forms. Mentor poems will be analyzed through discussion. There will be brief in-class exercises as time allows. Student poems will then be shared in a supportive and positive setting. An out-of-class writing assignment for the following week will be given at the end of the session. No prior writing experience is needed.

Prose Poem + Haiku = Haibun – Online
Item Number: S25ARTS354
Dates: 3/31/2025 - 4/28/2025
Times: 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Days: M
Sessions: 5
Maximum Enrollment: 16
Building: Online
Room: (Zoom)
Instructor: Linda Jaffe

Registration for this course is closed.
In this writing course, students will explore the haibun, a combination of two poetic forms: the prose poem coupled with a haiku. Haibun became known in 17th-century Japan, where it was popularized by the poet Matsuo Basho. The most interesting aspect of the form is the manner in which the haiku responds to the prose poem, offering an oblique commentary that intensifies its themes or offers a different perspective. Each session will include a brief lecture and discussion regarding these poetic forms. Mentor poems will be analyzed through discussion. There will be brief in-class exercises as time allows. Student poems will then be shared in a supportive and positive setting. An out-of-class writing assignment for the following week will be given at the end of the session. No prior writing experience is needed.

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