Here's a breakdown of its evolution:
* Early Forms:
* Haikai no renga (linked verse): A collaborative form of poetry involving multiple poets, where one poet would write a three-line verse (hokku) followed by a response from another poet, and so on. This form existed from the 14th century.
* Hokku: The first three lines of the haikai no renga, often focusing on nature and featuring a seasonal word (kigo).
* The Birth of Haiku:
* Matsuo Bashō (1644-1694): Widely considered the master of haiku, Bashō perfected the form, emphasizing simplicity, directness, and a sense of transience. He often used vivid imagery and focused on capturing fleeting moments in nature.
* "Haiku" as a separate form: Around the early 18th century, the hokku became recognized as a distinct form of poetry, known as "haiku."
* Later Development:
* Modern Haiku: In the 20th century, haiku spread internationally, inspiring new interpretations and innovations. Modern haiku often explores a wider range of themes beyond nature and employs a more personal style.
So, while the origins of the form can be traced back to the 14th century with haikai no renga, the haiku as we know it today originated in the 17th century with the work of Matsuo Bashō.