How to Write a Tanka

A Tanka is a Japanese verse form consisting of five lines with a total syllable count of 31. Traditionally Japanese forms are all based around the theme of nature; although these days any theme is acceptable.

A Tanka has a set formula for the amount of syllables on each line:
Line 1 has 5 syllables.
Line 2 has 7 syllables.
Line 3 has 5 syllables.
Line 4 has 7 syllables.
Line 5 has 7 syllables.

Imagery is important when constructing a Tanka, but it doesn't need to be as obscure as a Haiku.

Here is an example of a Tanka Poem:

Envious ocean, (5)
Like a mirror that reflects (7)
Her sister the sky; (5)
But broken and distorted, (7)
As she cannot fly so free. (7)

Once you've written your poem, why not send it to us to be entered into our competition - You can send via post to: Forward Poetry, Remus House, Coltsfoot Drive, Peterborough PE2 9JX, or email it to inbox@forwardpoetry.co.uk.

Tel: 01733 890099 Fax: 01733 313524 Email: inbox@forwardpoetry.co.uk

Forward Poetry's ethos has always been to act as a bridge to publication rather than a barrier. This, along with our passion for poetry and creative writing, has seen a humble family business evolve into the biggest publisher of new poetry in the world. We understand that poetry is subjective, that everyone writes in a different style and that what one person can love, another can hate! Our collections showcase a variety of themes, writing styles and poets from all walks of life. They are carefully edited and compiled to celebrate and complement the craft that all of our contributors enjoy poetry.

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How to Write a Tanka

Here is an example of a Tanka Poem:

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