Clark introduces our first unit as an exploration of the haiku's three line, 17-syllable form.

The Essence of Haiku

These are the basic principles of haiku:

• the 5-7-5 syllable form
• the use of season words
• the creation of an original or captivating turn of thought.

This is what we'll be learning over the next six lessons. It's the pith of haiku, the essence of haiku. If all you remember is these three simple points, you'll be able to start writing haiku right away.

Download the workbook and audio

All of the written content of this unit is contained in a workbook, which you can download here for reference and reflection. Audio versions of the talks and meditations are also available for you to listen to.