Tanka poetry is an art form of
communication. It’s a short, free verse 31 syllable poem. When
written in Japanese calligraphy, it is usually written in one long line
however, when written in English, it is composed of 5 lines, with the following
syllables per line in the poem - (5-7-5-7-7). It emphasizes clarity and
conciseness, requiring the writer (poet), to choose each word carefully to
convey meaning. The aim is to stir within you and the reader feelings,
cherished memories, expressions, gratitude or vivid imagery and
reflection, about a topic that is emotionally significant; to experience what
the writer has felt.
The poem topic can be about
experiencing a new culture, feelings about different seasons, social issues,
childhood memories, romantic love. It can also be used as a concise story
telling experience.
It originated in Japan during
the 9th century during the Heian (平安), known
as the peace period - the golden era 794 - 1185, when the national culture of
Japan grew and flourished, especially in the Japanese Imperial Court. It was a
time noted for its art, etiquette, fashion, poetry and literature. This period
ended as the rivalling warlords assumed power and control of government, transforming
Japan into a shogunate. However, much of the Heian culture lived on and
defines Japan even now.
Tanka can be used as a
mindfulness activity, to help you slow down and be present, or to help you to
connect with others e.g. parents can sit down with family and friends, to play
with writing their own Tanka poem together, brainstorming ideas and
presenting aloud your poems. You may then follow up with drawing or painting
pictures or making a collage together. Each family member working together as a
team.
When writing tanka poems in
Japanese calligraphy, different meanings can emerge. (Note: The syllables
also translate differently and may not fit the format exactly, when changed
into another language).
When reciting a tanka poem
aloud, it can invoke from deep within you, the dormant performer. You may then
notice how you articulate your words, and listen to your own your voice tone
and pitch. Is it polite or brash? Do you articulate the words clearly? Have
you now found a new fun 10-minute activity that can help you improve your
public speaking skills? Writing Tanka poetry connects you to your heart and
spirit.
Our FSFA Japanese Festival
held in August 2025, provided an opportunity to engage and experience Tanka
poetry with the Melbourne Tanka Group led by Dr Kelly Shang and her
colleagues. They meet regularly to play with Tanka poetry writing and
expression, outside their busy workplaces and family life. Tanka is an
opportunity to reconnect with your inner true self, and connect with others,
who may feel at times, suppressed, caged, or inspired by their occupational
roles, relationships, culture or home life.
Our challenge to you, is to
choose a topic of choice e.g. winter, love, happiness, a person to describe or
a job title, etc. and explore the fun of writing your own tanka poem.
Alternatively, you could rewrite the following poem in your own words sounding
out the syllables for each line (5 lines only) 5-7-5-7-7.
My poem, about Japan is as
follows:
5 (syllables) Japan is busy
7 Polite, organized, patient
5 Slow down and observe
7 Embrace this culture in life
7 Feel the blossoming emerge
My mother, an avid reader
who attended the Japanese Festival, wrote this tanka poem about spring, in
only a few minutes.
Spring
Buds are sprouting up
Blossoms blooming everywhere
Daffodils swaying
Colours exploding right now
Bringing life and energy
Melbourne Tanka Poetry Club
also wrote the following poem to celebrate our Japanese Festival day. It’s
written in Japanese calligraphy and translated into English, hence the
syllables are different.
