Background Information
Irodori poetry is a Japanese poetic form that dates back to the 15th century. It combines haiku and tanka to tell a story. The word irodori has two meanings: “to paint” and “to mix in a variety of colors.” The goal of irodori poetry is to create a vivid landscape made up of images, emotions, and memories. The structure of irodori poetry is similar to a mashup of three different poetic forms: haiku, tanka, and waka. A haiku is a short poem with seventeen syllables (5-7-5). A tanka is composed of five lines, with each line containing seven or fewer syllables (5-7-5-7-7). A waka consists of five lines, with each line containing five or fewer syllables (5-7-5-7-7). While there is no one definitive structure for irodori poetry, the general goal is to create something unique, with layers of visual, emotional and intellectual elements blended together.
Things to Keep in Mind
When writing irodori poetry, it is important to keep the following things in mind: focus on imagery, use allusions, implement elements of surprise, utilize word play, and create something that has personal relevance. Irodori poetry is rooted in the Japanese aesthetic of “mono no aware,” which is the understanding that life contains a bittersweet beauty that can both inspire and move us. Therefore, when constructing an irodori poem, the writer should not be afraid to evoke a sense of melancholy and express emotion.
Jumping Off Point
The best way to start an irodori poem is with a jumping off point. This could be as simple as a lone image, a feeling, or a phrase that sparks the poet’s creativity. It does not necessarily have to be realistic or literal, as abstract and surreal ideas can also be used. Once the initial concept has been determined, the poet can then construct the poem with haiku, tanka and waka.
Combining the Poetic Forms
When constructing an irodori poem, the poet should strive to create something that is evocative and thought-provoking. When combining the different poetic forms, it is important to create an atmosphere of ambiguity. In Japanese poetry, there is a pervasive idea of the “floating world”—which is the idea that life is transient and that nothing remains the same forever. In that sense, the poet should strive to capture this idea of impermanence by utilizing elements of surprise and wordplay to create something that is both complex and beautiful.
Using Metaphors and Similes
Metaphors and similes can be used to create vivid imagery and to evoke emotion in the reader. According to traditional Japanese aesthetic principles, the poet should strive to evoke a sense of awe in the reader by utilizing symbols, such as animals, plants, and celestial bodies. In addition, the poet can also enhance the poem by utilizing allusions to mythology and folklore.
Headings for Each Poetic Form
When constructing an irodori poem, the poet should use a heading for each of the three different poetic forms. For example, the heading for the haiku could be something like “Autumn Reflection” or “The Passing of Time”. Alternatively, the heading for the tanka could be something like “A Promise of Love” or “A Desperate Longing”. For the waka, the heading could be something like “A Moment of Joy” or “Answering My Prayers”.
Using Rhyme and Assonance
When constructing an irodori poem, it is important to use rhymes and assonance to create a sense of unity. Rhymes and assonance help to create a sense of continuity and flow that can draw the reader in. By using words that are similar in either sound or meaning, the reader can more easily follow the story and understand the intent of the poet.
Using Advanced Grammar Structures
One of the most important things to keep in mind when writing irodori poetry is to use advanced grammar structures. The writer should strive to create variety in the poem by utilizing different types of sentence structures, such as compound sentences and periodic sentences. Additionally, the writer should also strive to avoid the passive voice in order to create a sense of immediacy and urgency.
Using Emotional Triggers
In addition to utilizing advanced grammar structures, the writer should also strive to use emotional triggers in the poem. Words like “beauty”, “sorrow”, and “longing” can evoke powerful emotions in the reader and can help to move the story forward. Furthermore, it is also important to use language that is evocative and vivid in order to create an atmosphere of mystery and intrigue.
Involving the Reader
One of the key elements of irodori poetry is involving the reader. The poet should aim to engage the reader by asking questions and creating a sense of anticipation. Furthermore, it is also important to use language that is accessible and relatable in order to ensure that the reader can identify with the story and its characters.
Stylistic Elements
When constructing an irodori poem, it is important to pay close attention to stylistic elements such as word choice, punctuation and line breaks. Word choice should be precise in order to create a strong visual impact, while punctuation should be used sparingly in order to create a sense of openness. Furthermore, it is important to break the lines in a way that creates a sense of flow and rhythm.
Conclusion
Irodori poetry is a unique form of Japanese poetry that combines haiku, tanka and waka and utilizes metaphor and imagery to evoke emotion in the reader. In order to create a successful irodori poem, the poet must pay close attention to style, grammar and word choice in order to create a vivid landscape. Furthermore, the poet should strive to employ emotional triggers and implement elements of surprise in order to engage the reader. With practice and patience, anyone can create a unique and beautiful irodori poem.
