Spring season in the autumn of my life…a Tanka poem

Spring season in the autumn of my life…a Tanka poem

Perched on a sparse branch

A plump winged miracle

Ready for flight.

Am I prepared for take off

In the autumn of my life?

https://www.masterclass.com/articles/a-guide-to-japanese-poetic-forms

https://www.masterclass.com/articles/tanka-poem-defined-plus-examples

https://www.masterclass.com/articles/cinquain-poetry-guide

When written in English, tanka poems must meet criteria concerning their structure and content. Regarding structure, the first line of a tanka poem has five syllables, the second line has seven syllables, and the third line again has five syllables—a pattern also found in haiku poetry. A tanka poem deviates from a haiku poem, however, with fourth and fifth lines that are each seven syllables. 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.

An air of mystery is common among this Japanese style of poetry.