Indeed, the Haiku and the Tanka are wonderful forms, setting firm forms, and yet letting you make the poem unique and yours.
Some think the 5,7,5 syllable count enough, while other think the 3,5,3 form sounds more oriental (What ever that’s supposed to mean?) Both are challenging, especially with the last line to have some reference to nature.
Joining a 5,7,5 form (Haiku) with two 7,7 count lines (Tanka) and continuing on in that form gives one a unique structure to tell a story with a bit of work. I think more people should try the two forms, they are surprisingly flexible and fun.
Haiku, Tanka and Choka...
The Castle Tall is sort of a choka, I guess.
I really love the Tanka form best for short pieces.
This one:
Swimmers
Tasting the current,
what do the swimmers ponder
in sunlight and shade?
Eagles hunt from high blue sky,
Bridges give sanctuary.
Goes with this photo:
http://fc01.deviantart.com/fs18/f/2007/213/1/2/Swimmers_by_knittingknots.jpg
