The Classic Tradition of Haiku: An Anthology

Faubion Bowers

Apr 2012 · Courier Corporation

About this ebook

A highly distilled form of Japanese poetry, haiku consists of seventeen syllables, usually divided among three lines. Though brief, they tell a story or paint a vivid picture, leaving it to the reader to draw out the meanings and complete them in the mind's eye. Haiku often contains a hidden dualism (near and far, then and now, etc.) and has a seasonal tie-in, as well as specific word-images that reveal deeper layers in each poem.
This unique collection spans over 400 years (1488–1902) of haiku history by the greatest masters: Bashō, Issa, Shiki, and many more, in translations by top-flight scholars in the field. Haiku commands enormous respect in Japan. Now readers of poetry in the West can savor these expressive masterpieces in this treasury compiled by noted writer Faubion Bowers, who provides a Foreword and many informative notes to the poems.

Ratings and reviews

A thoroughly enjoyable, vast collection, laid out attractively, filled with notes that add context and meaning. As a fan of haiku, I could not have been happier. A true steal at the price I paid for it. Highly recommended. Especially valuable in that not only does it include many works from the "big four" haiku poets but also many by authors beyond these four adding scope and depth to this collection.