Tanka Poems
World Literature
Tanka Poem
• Expresses a single feeling/emotion or
idea
• ONLY 5 lines
• Lines 1 & 3 have 5 syllables
• Lines 2, 4, & 5 have 7 syllables
• No required rhyme scheme
Example of Tanka Poem
To live is to break
by
Ueda Miyoji
To live is to break
One's heart for the sake of love;
A couple of doves,
Beaks touching on their way,
Are stepping out in the sun.
Example of Tanka Poem
Thunderclouds building
Gathering strength as they grow
Releasing themselves
Pouring life-giving torrents
Cleansing the world in shower