Month: January 2023

AHS Summer Equinox 2022 Haiga Kukai: Seasonal Results with Comments by Judge Ron C. Moss

1st Place

neap tide
the moon’s tug
on our blood

Marietta McGregor

There was an interesting mix of entries for the seasonal kukai. When reading through the poems, I’m always looking for those that resonate and have elements of shift and link, as well as those in which the two parts of the image and words merge into something stronger together. With Marietta’s haiku we are tantalised with a word that is not all that well known – neap tide – a period when moderate tides occur, usually seven days after a spring tide. The wonderful moon’s tug connects us with the universe and celestial bodies – the tug on our blood and the flow of tide all governed by the moon. Such a powerful poem resonates on many levels with the image and I’m thankful for the poet’s deep seeing.

Continue reading “AHS Summer Equinox 2022 Haiga Kukai: Seasonal Results with Comments by Judge Ron C. Moss”

AHS Summer Equinox 2022 Haiga Kukai: Non-Seasonal Results with Comments by Judge Ron C. Moss

1st Place

the autistic boy
drawing his perfect world …
a smiling shark

Natalia Kuznetsova

The image I captured was of a sculpture in Fremantle, Australia, and I was looking for interesting responses that might come from the unusual elements. I know it was a challenge to keep away from a direct seasonal reference but I feel the image was evocative enough and I’m pleased to say we have some fine entries to enjoy. I feel the winning poet has captured a whole story in three short lines and they sizzle along with the image to make a very effective haiga. We probably all feel the sharp teeth of life at times and I can only guess what it must be like for those who have added challenges. A fine poem that stays long after first reading.

Continue reading “AHS Summer Equinox 2022 Haiga Kukai: Non-Seasonal Results with Comments by Judge Ron C. Moss”