Introduction to Tanka Poetry
Tanka, meaning “short song” in Japanese, is a classical poetic form dating back over 1,300 years. Composed in five lines with a 5-7-5-7-7 syllabic structure, it distills emotion, memory, and fleeting beauty into just 31 syllables. Unlike haiku, which often captures a moment in nature, tanka opens space for personal reflection—desire, sorrow, longing, and love. It is a form where brevity meets depth, and where each line folds into the next like waves returning to shore.
In modern practice, tanka has evolved beyond strict syllabic constraints, embracing free verse while retaining its lyrical soul. Whether traditional or contemporary, each tanka is a quiet invocation—an intimate breath of feeling shaped into form.

“Hope’s Rainbow Glow”

In the storm’s cruel grip,
Hope’s colours unfurl boldly,
Bright arcs pierce the gloom,
Standing tall, we find solace,
Rainbow glow, our beacon strong.

“Childhood’s Treasures”

Innocent delight,
Childhood’s key unlocks wonders,
Creativity,
Curiosity, pure joy,
Rediscovered, embraced whole.

“Melodies of Life”

Symphony of life,
Heartbeats weave harmonies sweet,
Each a melody,
Unique, in the grand concert,
Life’s rhythm, diverse and rich.

“Strength in Vulnerability”

Embrace openness,
Vulnerability’s true power,
Strength found within it,
Uncovering depths untold,
Courage blooms, unafraid, strong.

Sun-Drenched Memories

Bare feet on hot sand,
Laughter rings, a salty breeze,
Castle walls crumble.
He offers a pink seashell,
“Keep it safe, for me, always.”

Fireflies ignite,
Whispering secrets in dark,
Blanket fort heaven.
She points to the Milky Way,
Lost in dreams, side by side, still.

Ice cream melts too fast,
Sticky fingers, cherry stained,
A giggle escapes.
He buys her another cone,
Sunlight paints their happy smiles.

Sudden summer rain,
Hiding ‘neath the porch awning,
Sharing whispered tales.
She leans closer, shoulder touch,
The storm fades, a gentle peace.

End of summer nears,
Promises in fading light,
Seagulls cry goodbye.
She clutches the pink seashell,
“Next year, we’ll build even more.”