S9E43 Nick Virgilio: The Art of Haiku, Emotion and the Moon A Poetry Pea Podcast

What makes a great haiku? Is it the cleverness of an image, the beauty of its construction, or the emotions it leaves behind? In this episode of the Poetry Pea Podcast, Patricia explores poetry of Nick Virgilio, one of the influential pioneers of English-language haiku. From his famous Lily haiku to the playful imagery of Bass picking bugs off the moon, we look at Virgilio's distinctive approach to the short form, his use of sound, rhythm, alliteration and seasonal reference (kigo). We explore how one poet's work can influence another, consider the relationship between Virgilio's poetry and J.W. Hackett's haiku, and discover how Virgilio used sound tand rhythm. But there is another, much more personal side to his writing. We look at the deeply moving haiku he wrote following the death of his younger brother in Vietnam, including the poem that helped change Professor Donald Keene's view of the possibilities of English-language haiku. And, as always, Patricia has a few questions. Is it enough for a haiku be clever without being emotionally engaging? What is the point of poetry if not to engager with us emotionally? Is alliteration a bad thing? Join us for a closer look at Nick Virgilio, his contribution to English-language haiku, and the poetry that continues to provoke discussion. In this episode: Nick Virgilio and the development of English-language haiku The famous Lily haiku Kigo, seasonality and emotional resonance Sound, rhythm and alliteration in haiku The influence of J.W. Hackett Haiku about loss, grief and the Vietnam War Cleverness versus emotional engagement in poetry Further reading and references are included in the show notes. If you enjoy haiku, senryu, Japanese short-form poetry and thoughtful discussions about writing, reading and appreciating poetry, subscribe to the Poetry Pea Podcast. And if you've enjoyed this podcast, do please support us at BuymeaCoffee. Ginger tea being my tipple of choice.