A Traditional Linked 12 Verse Haiku

The Beginning

Spring Seed
Spring rain on dark soil—
a quiet seed waking slow
beneath morning light.

First Green
Soft wind through the field,
a pale shoot lifts from the earth—
larks circle above.

Root and Rain
Roots drinking the rain,
earth loosens its gentle hold—
warm clouds drifting past.

Youthful Stem
Young stems sway lightly,
storm winds bow them for a while—
still they face the sun.

Early Summer
Bright meadow at noon,
new leaves turning toward the light—
bees wander the air.

Full Bloom
Petals opening,
golden dust upon their hearts—
summer humming loud.

Seeds Begin
Late afternoon breeze,
birds settle among tall stems—
fields whisper softly.

Seeds Depart
Small seeds ride the wind,
crossing hedges and open sky—
future drifting wide.

Autumn Field
Cool mist on the ground,
fading petals touch the soil—
geese call overhead.

Falling Quiet
Empty meadow paths,
dry leaves gather by the gate—
dusk deepens the lane.

Winter Rest
Bare branches in frost,
silent earth holding its breath—
long night over fields.

Hidden Spring
Under frozen ground,
a sleeping seed warms slowly—
spring waiting to rise.

The End

By Paul Baldry (LongJohn)

The Flower of Life follows the quiet journey of a seed through the seasons, reflecting the cycle of human life. In twelve linked haiku, growth, resilience, love, decline, and renewal unfold through nature’s imagery, reminding us that every ending gently prepares the soil for a new beginning.