Write a haiku and win a $50 gift certificate to Salt Spring Books!

Winning entries will be displayed at the Japanese Garden Society’s Blossom Picnic on May 7.

Theme: Spring on Salt Spring

WHAT IS A HAIKU? We are using Haiku Canada’s definition:

A short unrhymed poem that records the essence of a keenly perceived or “aha!” moment. Haiku express awe or insight, often linking nature with human nature.

In Japanese, haiku consist of 17 on (sound beats) written in one line. In English, haiku usually have fewer than 17 syllables and are written in three lines. Strict adherence to the 5-7-5 syllable rule is not necessary.

Categories:

  • Primary ages 6-9
  • Intermediate ages 10-12
  • Youth ages 13-18
  • Adult
  • Adult written in Japanese, traditional format. Please supply a translation.

One entry per person.

Entries must be received by May 2 at 3:00. No late entries accepted!

Submit your entry to the Salt Spring Literacy office, at SIMS (the former middle school), Room 4, or email it to us at: info@saltspringliteracy.org

One prize of a $50 gift certificate to Salt Spring Books will be awarded in each category.

Winners that are selected will be final. One submission per person. Submissions will not be returned. Please include your name, contact information and category.

A media release must be signed so we can display your work at the picnic and publish it on our website and our FaceBook page.

Winning entries will be displayed at the Japanese Garden Society’s Blossom Picnic, Sunday, May 7, 11-2.

There are many resources on writing haiku online. Here’s a Canadian link: www.haikucanada.org. Check out their resources links.

Contest sponsored by Salt Spring Literacy and the Japanese Garden Society