How To Write Senryu
Senryu is a traditional form of Japanese poetry closely related to haiku. It consists of three lines with a syllable pattern of 5-7-5, just like haiku. This is simply a suggestion, ultimately the poem should simply say a lot in three short lines. While haiku focuses on capturing the essence of nature, senryu is centered around human nature, emotions, and the often humorous aspects of everyday life.
Rules of Senryu
- It is a short, 3 line poem
- Focuses on human beings, not nature
- You may choose to write it in the 5-7-5 tradition
- It is unrhymed
Advantages of the Form
Senryu explores the complexities and idiosyncrasies of human behavior, often portraying the irony, satire, or wit found in human interactions. It delves into various aspects of human experience, including love, relationships, social dynamics, and societal observations.
Similar to haiku, it aims to convey a momentary insight or realization in a concise and evocative manner.
Challenges of the Form
The brevity of the form requires the poet to distill their thoughts into a few carefully chosen words. This can prove difficult when discussing topics as complex as human nature. The results, though, encourage the reader to contemplate the underlying meaning and find resonance in the simple yet profound observations of human nature.
Senryu Writing Prompts
Prompt 1 – Horror Senryu
Use the senryu form the craft a horror poem. The definition of horror is up to you.
Example:
The toilet paper
in a public restroom
is empty
Prompt 2 – Best Friend
Write a senryu poem about some aspect of your best friend.
Example:
He walks outside
with a dog in one hand
and love in his heart
Prompt 3 – In Your Neighborhood
Keep this senryu poem close to home; write about something or someone in your neighborhood.
Example:
Summer smiles and rust
My neighbor swings her legs
On an ancient porch swing
Prompt 4 – Glimpse into the Future
Write a senryu poem about what you think the future will look like. This could be one week into the future, or 1,000 years, up to you!
Example:
Rolling fields of corn
Vast, empty, and hot
Indiana will never change
Prompt 5 – Black Friday Chaos
Write a senryu poem about your craziest black friday experience. If you haven’t had one, make it up!
Example:
Rolling tide, strong current
An ocean of men
Laps at the sliding doors
Prompt 6 – For Your Parents
Write a senryu poem about your parents.
Example:
They pass along love
in a frying pan—I am grateful
for each bite
Prompt 7 – Gifts
This one is all about gifts. Whether it’s about giving or receiving them is up to you.
Example:
They say giving
is the gift itself—but for me
it’s getting a gift in return
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