Classic tanka (traditionally known as waka) is made up of what are considered to be 5 units. These units are what most people recognize as the lines in the poem (5-7-5-7-7). Of all the Japanese poetic forms, tanka is (in my opinion) the most disciplined when it comes to adhering to a particular line structure. the 5 unit format is broken down even further into two separate rhythm structures. The 5-7-5 is what is known as the "Upper Phrase" (Kami-no-ku) while the 7-7 is referred to as the "Lower phrase" (Shimo-no-ku). In modern tanka, following the unit count is not considered a necessity (though some disagree) in executing a good tanka. The most important things to observe are the principles of brevity, flow, and being actively engaged in the moment at hand. In both modern and classic tanka, there is often a pivot point between the two phrases. This pivot point refers to the moment when you transition from the image to the emotion being felt by the speaker...for example
you will grow to be
better than me
he said...
from the porch, our shadows
race each other
In this piece from my Tanka Series part 2 laurence55.deviantart.com/art/… I used the third line "he said" along with the ellipses to transition between the heartfelt conversation between two individuals to the image of shadows in the setting sun. In this case, the third line is the pivot line.
Where the pivot line takes place is not really as important in modern tanka. Also, there are some tanka that flow through the piece without making use of the pivot line at all. These tanka display the emotion in a kind of "stand alone" manner; without an overt shift from a contrasting nature image.
In conclusion, each of the methods is merely a "technique" for achieving a desired effect. I often find myself playing with many ideas in my tanka when it comes to form. I would encourage everyone to find a method that works for you and then play with it.
that is all for now...please note me with any questions, comments, or curses
Next, I will be discussing content in Tanka...
stay tuned!P.S- For anyone interested in gaining a detailed critique of their work, asking the opinion of an experienced haijin (one who is preferably not a jerk
) is good for gaining a sense of direction in your writing...remember though, that nobody truly knows "how" to write a tanka (or any other form). A master should not expect you to follow their methods to the letter. The only kind of tanka is a good one!!!
