Vision Share: Haiku Pictures

Observing Moments – Step 3

Now convert your capsule description into a haiku with images.

In this step, you’ll highlight a few key details. Haiku is a poetic form that emphasizes visual imagery and being in the moment. One classic format:

five syllables
seven syllables
five syllables

So, write a haiku to evoke what you observed, then add images – line drawings, color washes, decorative symbols, or other media. The idea is to recast your written description in a visual format that can be shared with others.

Suggested Time for Activity: 20 minutes

Sharing: with a friend or writing group; social media

Write your haiku and combine it with drawings, photos, video, even music. Just be sure to keep the details specific, based on direct observation.

Q. Do I have to stick to that haiku format?

No, it’s just a template for coming up with a very short, image-based poem. For a variation, see Li Po’s four-line poem in the examples on the previous page.

A set number of syllables helps with choosing details.

Sticking to a set number of syllables and lines does help with choosing details. That brevity encourages description of a single moment as it unfolds.

Haiku also lends itself to observing nature, whether you’re young or old. The “Nature Haikus” page on Los Angeles County’s Natural History Museum website includes several examples by children, such as:

Singing birds fly by
Bringing peace to the garden
And the flowers bloom. ^[1]

Q. Do I need to include the written words of my haiku?

Yes, include your words. This step is about focusing your observations for an audience. Haiku are short enough to work well with imagery or other media. You’ll find many haiku memes and Instagram posts online.

Strong visuals don’t always involve realistic imagery.

Design suggestion: free yourself from the literal. Even if you took pictures of the place you observed, do more than combine your haiku with a photograph. Come up with symbolic ways to represent the words – doodles, emoji, a background color. Strong multimedia visuals don’t always involve realistic imagery.

For additional inspiration, see the artist David Hockney’s “iPhone drawings.”^[2]

Q. What if I don’t want to share my haiku picture?

It’s up to you, but I encourage you to try it with a friend or family member. The ultimate goal of becoming a better storyteller is to communicate with other people. The response of your fellow humans will let you know if you’re on the right track.

The ultimate goal is communicating with other people.

Sharing a haiku picture – in person, via email, on Zoom — is often fun and motivating. It’s a warmup for sharing other writing when you’re ready for that.

A Word About Social Media: Sharing your haiku picture on social media is not required. If you enjoy sharing and interacting with more followers, please do. But if not, avoid social media for the “Vision Share” step.