How to Write a Haibun

Haibun is a poetic form that originated in 1600s Japan and is now popular worldwide. It consists of a prose paragraph of a direct, usually personal experience, ending with a haiku that deepens the paragraph’s meaning. The haibun’s strength lies in its use of simple, natural language, often with images of nature, to convey meaning and experience. We will learn about the form and structure of haibun, read a variety of haibun, and try our hands at writing a haibun using an easy, accessible prompt. All are invited to this fun and supportive course. Each participant will receive a small notebook and a copy of the instructor’s latest book, In Full Bloom.

Instructor: Jeanne Martin