Senryu Morning

The Shortest Stories

I love writing very short fiction: flash fiction, micro fiction, and I’ve come to love writing the Senryu poem, because it’s the shortest form of story telling I have ever found. It’s a challenge to write and I adore challenges!

The Senryu poem comes from the Japanese.  The first line must contain 5 syllables, the second line 7 syllables and the third line 5 syllables.  Usually, they do not rhyme.

Senryus tell a story, paint a mental image, or get a point across in a simple, brief way.  They are also concerned with pointing out human nature and its foibles.

Here are a few Senryu poems to have with your coffee …

Senryu (5/7/5)
Take everyday words
beyond everyday talent
and write them alive.

Senryu (5/7/5)
You have amnesia
and can’t remember your name?
… No, you can’t have mine.

Senryu (5/7/5)
In my mirror, there’s
someone that’s older than old.
I pray it’s not me …

Senryu (5/7/5)
Hypocritical:
To proclaim a Godly self,
yet write hate in verse.

Senryu (5/7/5)
HIS feet are stinky?
You think HE has smelly feet?
It’s not HIS … they’re YOURS.

Senryu (5/7/5)
My dad’s head is bald.
No more barbers are needed.
All Dad wants … is Pledge.