Why I Write Poetry Inspired by Japanese Traditions

When I began writing poetry, I sought a style that could capture emotions with simplicity and depth. Japanese poetry resonated deeply with me, focusing on nature, fleeting moments, and subtle beauty. Forms like Renga, which blend structure with emotional fluidity, became a natural choice for exploring my creative voice.

The Power of Emotions

Emotions are at the heart of my poetry. Inspired by Japanese aesthetics, I aim to express feelings like longing, joy, and introspection in a way that lingers beyond words.

Japanese poetry taught me the art of suggestion over explanation, where the space between the lines is as meaningful as the text.

By focusing on emotions, I strive to create a connection with the reader, inviting them to interpret and find their meaning within the imagery and tone of my work.

Why Renga?

The collaborative and reflective nature of Renga inspires my poetry. Traditionally written by multiple poets, Renga alternates stanzas to build a flowing chain of ideas and images. While I write solo, I’ve adopted its structure to explore emotional connections and transitions in my work.

• Layered Imagery: Renga allows each stanza to evolve naturally from the previous one, creating a rhythm of thought and feeling.

• Emotional Dialogue: Writing Renga feels like a conversation with the reader and myself as I reflect on emotions and moments.

  
  

Nature as a Metaphor

Nature has always been central to Japanese poetry and is equally vital in my work. Elements like grey skies, rain, and shifting seasons become metaphors for human emotions, allowing me to express the unspeakable through vivid imagery.

For example, in one of my newest (and unpublished) poems, I use rain to symbolize both sorrow and renewal:

Grey

Rain unstoppable

Grey

Rain unforgettable

Rain, a memory.

This balance between simplicity and emotional resonance draws me to Japanese poetic traditions.

Honouring Tradition While Innovating

While traditional Japanese poetry forms like Haiku and Tanka rely on strict syllabic structures, I often embrace the modern free verse Renga style. This approach offers freedom while maintaining the reflective spirit of the original form, allowing me to explore universal themes in a personal way.

A Timeless Influence

Writing poetry inspired by Japanese traditions has taught me to appreciate the power of brevity, the beauty of suggestion, and the importance of emotional authenticity. This journey continually shapes my creative process, offering structure and freedom as I weave emotions and imagery into every line.

Through this style, I hope to share moments of quiet introspection and emotional connection, creating poetry that feels timeless yet uniquely my own.