Waka

• Form: 5-7-5-7-7 syllables

• Origin: Nara Period

• Main Themes: Nature, love, emotions

• Fetures: Elegant and Formal

• Key Figures: Kakinomoto no Hitomaro, Ki no Tsurayuki

Haiku

• Form: 5-7-5 syllables

• Origin: Edo Period

• Main Themes: Nature, moments of awe

• Fetures: Concise and descriptive

• Key Figures: Matsuo Basho, Kobayashi Issa 

Renga

• Form: 5-7-5 + 7-7 (alternating lines)

• Origin: Late Heian Period

• Main Themes: Collaborative stories or imagery

• Fetures: Collaborative, focusing on flow

• Key Figures: Sogi, Nijō Yoshimoto

Manyousyuu

In Japanese

[Azumanononi kagiroinotatumiete kaerimisureba tukikatabukinu]

In English

[ When I look east- the light of daybreak spilling out over the plain. When I look back- the moon crossing to the west. ]

Okunohosomiti

In Japanese

[Huruikeya kawazutobikomu mizunooto]

In English

[ The old pond; A flog jumps in - The sound of the water. ]

Minasesanginhyakuren

In Japanese

[Harunoyoru hananokouwoba kazeninose]

In English

[ On a spring night, I send the fragrance of flowers on the wind. ]

A figure of speech that explicitly compares one thing to another using words like “as” or “like.”

 A figure of speech that directly describes one thing as if it were another without using “like” or “as.” 

A literary device that attributes human qualities or actions to non-human objects or concepts. 

Translation

“Fields of rapeseed flowers—

the moon rises in the east,

the sun sets in the west.”

Explanation

"Nanohanaya"

“Fields of rapeseed flowers”

 The scene opens with a vibrant image of rapeseed flowers blooming in the spring countryside. The use of “ya” (a kireji or cutting word) creates a pause and conveys a sense of wonder at the beauty of the flowers.

"tukihahigashini"

“The moon rises in the east”

   The moon is beginning to rise in the eastern sky, suggesting the transition from day to night. This marks the start of evening with the soft, serene light of the moon.

"hihanishini"

  “The sun sets in the west”

   At the same time, the sun sets in the west, leaving a lingering glow in the sky. The juxtaposition of the moon and the sun emphasizes the passage of time and the harmony of nature.

Translation

“As I step out to Tago Bay and gaze upon the scene,

pure white snow falls continuously

on the lofty peak of Mount Fuji.”

Explanation

"Tagonourani"

"Tago Bay "

Refers to a picturesque coastal area in present-day Shizuoka Prefecture, renowned for its view of Mount Fuji. The poet begins with a sense of motion, stepping out to admire the expansive view.

"Hakumyou"

"White Cloth "

The word “shirotae” (white cloth) is a metaphor for the snow, emphasizing its brilliance and purity. It draws a visual connection between the snowy landscape and the refined elegance of white fabric.

"Hujinotakane"

"Lofty Peak of Mount Fuji"

Mount Fuji is portrayed as majestic and awe-inspiring. Its high peak is an enduring symbol of Japan’s natural beauty and cultural significance.

"Yukihahuritutu"

"Snow Falling Continuously"

The phrase conveys a sense of time and motion, describing the serene and persistent snowfall. This dynamic element enhances the tranquil and timeless atmosphere of the scene.