As a writer, I’m always looking for little bursts of inspiration: poetry, flash fiction, or prompts are often where I find small but mighty moments of insight. One of my favorite tiny powerhouses is haiku, the Japanese poetry style wherein just seventeen syllables, in three tight lines of five, seven, and five syllables, can conjure a whole world of emotions.
Traditionally evoking images of the natural world, haiku can be about anything… so here are a few Jewish-themed haiku I wrote when I had something big to say in a small space (a sentiment that feels inherently Jewish in and of itself).
HAVDALLAH
Sharp sweet spicy scent
sizzle of candle in wine
a new week begins.
HEBREW SCHOOL
Those guttural sounds
somehow went from hard to soft
aided by bagels.
COMEDYHe’s disappointed:
“I heard that Jews were funny.”
Guess my joke fell flat.
EPIGENETICS
I have these nightmaresthat are not truly my own
but also… they are.
SMALL TOWN STORY
You want to know more?Ask me gently; I will be
your first Jewish friend.
All poems by Beth Kander, all rights retained by author. Included in this blog with permission.
