How to Write a Senryu (Haiku vs. Senryu)

Haiku and Senryu are often confused with one another. They are both three line poems with a 5/7/5 syllable count but the difference is subject and tone. A haiku is about nature and seasons with a somewhat reverent tone while haiku’s cousin, senryu ,is about human nature (characteristics, behavior, emotions, traits) often with an humorous tone. See my example poems below.

Haiku (NATURE):

acorns pelt my head
i look up in the oak tree
at squirrels laughing

©Danna Smith at poetrypop.com

SENRYU (HUMAN NATURE)

i tipped the artist
a benjamin for every
wrinkle overlooked

©Danna Smith at poetrypop.com

rules for writing a senryu

  1. Three lines with optional 5/7/5/ syllable count.
  2. Like haiku, senryu is written in incomplete sentences.
  3. Usually speaks of human nature (behavior, emotions, characteristics).
  4. Often has a humorous tone.
  5. Senryu are untitled and do not rhyme.
  6. As with haiku, no capitalizations or periods (em dash, comma, and explanation points are okay)

NOT SURE HOW TO COUNT SYLLABLES?

  • Clap out each syllable as you say the word. 
  • The word “blue” has one syllable (one clap): blue.
  • The word “thunder” has two syllables (two claps): thun-der. 
  • The word “poetry” has three syllables (three claps): po-et-ry.

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