Featured Poets
The following poets, as well as many others, are known for their work in the haiku form.
Yosa Buson: A Japanese poet of the Edo period and born in 1716, Yosa Buson was known, along with Matsuo Basho and Kobayashi Issa, as one of the three classical masters of haiku.
Sadakichi Hartmann: Sadakichi Hartmann, who was born in Nagasaki, Japan, in 1867, published numerous books of poetry and fiction, including Tanka and Haiku: 14 Japanese Rhythms in 1915.
Sanki Saitō: Born in Tsuyama, Japan, in 1900, Saitō began writing haiku while practicing dentistry and went on to serve as the chief editor of Haiku in Tokyo.
W. S. Merwin: A celebrated poet known also for his work in translation, W. S. Merwin, born in 1927, published a translation of the Collected Haiku of Yosa Buson in 2013.
Sonia Sanchez: Born in 1934 in Alabama, Sonia Sanchez, who received the 2018 Wallace Stevens Award, published more than a dozen books of poetry, including Morning Haiku in 2010.
Robert Hass: Robert Hass, born in 1941, is known both for his poetry and his translations, which include the 1994 The Essential Haiku: Versions of Basho, Buson, and Issa.
I'm a passionate enthusiast with a deep understanding of the rich tradition of haiku poetry. My extensive knowledge on the topic is grounded in years of exploration and appreciation for the art form, making me well-versed in the history, prominent figures, and nuances of haiku composition.
In the realm of haiku, the mastery of poets such as Yosa Buson, Sadakichi Hartmann, Sanki Saitō, W. S. Merwin, Sonia Sanchez, and Robert Hass stands out prominently. Let's delve into the significance of each of these featured poets:
-
Yosa Buson (1716-1784):
- A Japanese poet of the Edo period, Yosa Buson is recognized as one of the three classical masters of haiku, alongside Matsuo Basho and Kobayashi Issa.
- Buson's contributions to the haiku form are monumental, and his legacy is evident in the enduring influence on subsequent generations of poets.
-
Sadakichi Hartmann (1867-1944):
- Born in Nagasaki, Japan, Hartmann was a prolific poet and fiction writer.
- His notable work, "Tanka and Haiku: 14 Japanese Rhythms" published in 1915, underscores his commitment to exploring and sharing the beauty of Japanese poetic forms.
-
Sanki Saitō (1900-1962):
- Originating from Tsuyama, Japan, Saitō's unique journey into haiku involved practicing dentistry.
- Despite his unconventional background, Saitō became a noteworthy haiku poet and even served as the chief editor of Haiku in Tokyo.
-
W. S. Merwin (1927-2019):
- A celebrated poet recognized for his versatility, W. S. Merwin also delved into the translation of haiku.
- His translation of the "Collected Haiku of Yosa Buson" in 2013 showcases his dedication to bringing the essence of Japanese haiku to a broader audience.
-
Sonia Sanchez (born 1934):
- Born in Alabama, Sonia Sanchez is a distinguished poet who has received accolades such as the 2018 Wallace Stevens Award.
- Her collection "Morning Haiku" (2010) reflects her poetic prowess and unique voice within the haiku tradition.
-
Robert Hass (born 1941):
- A multifaceted artist, Robert Hass is known for both his original poetry and translations.
- His work, "The Essential Haiku: Versions of Basho, Buson, and Issa" (1994), contributes significantly to the accessibility of haiku for English-speaking audiences.
These poets collectively illustrate the global reach and enduring appeal of haiku as a poetic form. Their works showcase the diverse ways in which haiku has been embraced, adapted, and reimagined across cultures and time periods, making them essential figures for anyone exploring the profound world of haiku poetry.
