Tuesday 20th September
Mindful of the ever changing weather we met once again at Carol’s home. It was a delight to welcome Patricia back following a period of ill health. We were also looking forward to welcoming new recruit Joy. However, an unintended double booking meant we will have to wait until our next meeting.
Our set exercise was inspired by a book passed to me, which featured haiku themed on the traditional five elements: wood, fire, earth, water and metal. Conversations suggested the exercise had posed a challenge and it was interesting to hear the different interpretations from the scientific to the personal.
water
the very heart
of our existence
Ros Pitt
kitchen windowsill
Indian mynas shelter
from torrential rain
Patricia Meredith
strings of sunlight
stop on water
peaceful harmony
Rita Potente
water
not enough or too much
land of contrasts
Alison Miller
We went around the table listening to each member’s response. Constructive criticism was given for possible adjustments. To cliché the words spoken by the Professor to Eliza Doolittle, ‘by George you’ve got it’ came to mind when it was clear that the newer writers were improving significantly.
Just before lunch a selection of visual images was tabled as inspiration for writing a haiku ‘on the spot’ – a skill that is often difficult in the early stages of writing. However, again there were some well-crafted images.
During lunch we shared personal favourite poems written by others, drawn from our haiku bowl.
A hand-out of tips for members who might be thinking of sending their haiku for possible selection in competitions or publication on haiku websites or publications was shared.
While we would all benefit from more regular meetings, our daily life commitments impede. However, the old saying, ‘too much of a good thing’, highlights the benefits we take with us from our seasonal haiku experience and the eager anticipation of the next one.
Carol Reynolds
Group Coordinator
Australian Haiku Society 