To write a haiku, follow these key steps and guidelines:

• Structure: A traditional haiku consists of three lines with a 5-7-5 syllable pattern-5 syllables in the first line, 7 in the second, and 5 in the third. The poem is typically unrhymed

• Subject Matter: Haiku often focus on nature or seasonal themes (called kigo), but they can also capture personal experiences, emotions, or moments from everyday life

• Imagery and Simplicity: Use vivid, sensory language to evoke a clear image or feeling. Haiku emphasize directness and simplicity, often capturing a single moment or insight

• Juxtaposition and Cutting Word: Traditional haiku include a "cutting word" (kireji) that creates a pause or contrast between two parts of the poem, enhancing its impact. In English, this can be mimicked with punctuation like dashes or ellipses

• Writing Process:
  1. Brainstorm ideas or moments you want to capture.
  2. Prewrite by jotting down related images and words.
  3. Write your haiku focusing on rhythm and flow.
  4. Revise for clarity, stronger word choice, and smoothness

• Additional Tips: Avoid clichés, focus on sensory details rather than abstract concepts, and don’t worry about rhyming. Haiku can be serious or humorous

In summary, a haiku is a short, three-line poem with a 5-7-5 syllable count that captures a moment or image, often from nature, using simple, evocative language and a subtle pause or contrast