Structure:
* Kireji (Cutting Word): A word or phrase that creates a pause or break in the haiku, often marking a shift in thought or imagery. This "cut" is not always at the end of the second line.
* Season Word (Kigo): A word that refers to a specific season, indicating the time of year the haiku is set in. This helps to create a sense of place and time.
* Focus on Nature: Haiku traditionally focus on natural imagery, often featuring the subtle beauty of everyday life.
Content:
* Conciseness: Haiku are short, typically containing only 17 syllables. They aim to convey a complete thought or image in a concise manner.
* Simplicity and Directness: Haiku avoid elaborate metaphors and similes, instead focusing on straightforward observations and vivid imagery.
* Suggestion and Implication: Rather than stating things explicitly, haiku often rely on subtle suggestion to evoke a deeper meaning or feeling. The reader is invited to complete the poem's message.
* Focus on the Moment: Haiku often capture a single fleeting moment in time, emphasizing the beauty and significance of the present.
Other:
* Often written in the present tense.
* Traditionally written in a single, unrhymed line.
Important Note: While these characteristics are common in traditional haiku, modern haiku can vary significantly. Some poets may choose to deviate from the 5-7-5 structure or forgo the use of kigo. However, the underlying spirit of brevity, nature focus, and suggestion remains consistent.