Goldfinch in stark winter: a Tanka poem
Photo credit Lorne Coughlin
Goldfinch, puffed out…
Protection or foolish pride?
Too recognizable…
We are so far from golden,
But seem compelled to puff.
Tanka poetry
Tanka poems follow a set of rules. They all have five lines and each line follows a pattern: the first line has five syllables, the second line has seven syllables, the third line has five syllables, the fourth line has seven syllables, and the fifth line has seven syllables.
When written in English, Tanka poems must meet criteria concerning their structure and content. The number of syllables in each line is the only stylistic constraint of Tanka—there’s no need to rhyme or follow any specific meter.
Additionally, the third line must transition from the descriptive and image-focused beginning lines (called kami-no-ku) into a reflective metaphor, simile, or personification for the closing lines (shimo-no-ku). The subject matter can vary, but many poets choose a subject that’s emotionally stirring or quietly profound.
Tanka Poetry Defined: 3 Examples of Tanka Poems – 2025 – MasterClass
Graceguts – Tanka and the Five W’s
Your friend,
Robert
Robert McBryde – robertmcbrydeauthor.com
