Season Word List

     While I was checking out Haigaonline for my next submission, I came across three resources where you can find a season word list. These sites are actually suggested for the next haiga challenge, but these might prove helpful in writing your haiku.

     The World Haiku Club's World Kigo Database     
     "The Five Hundred Essential Japanese Season Words" at Renku Home
     Yuki Teikei Haiku Society

     A Dictionary of Haiku by Jane Reichhold might also be useful to you. She has arranged a list of poems, not alphabetically, but by seasons. By checking this out, you can find out what words or phrases correspond to a certain season.

     By the way, Haigaonline is now accepting only one haiga from each contributor. Luckily, the editor informed me that she was pleased to include one of my haiga for their next issue. The haiga is another collaborative effort with my brother, Perry. In June, I'll be posting it for sure. :-)   

The Usage of Season Words

   Have you read any haiku that sounds artificial because of the unnecessary use of a season word? Or have you pinpoint a seasonal word or phrase that only applies to Japanese culture?
     Read Michael Dylan Welch's essay, Up With Season Words, and you'll be able to understand how Japan kigo are relevant in English-language haiku. You'll also discover how you can adapt the concept and principles of seasons words in English.
     According to him, season words do often improve the haiku, but aren't necessary. The three poems, which he illustrates in his essay, show his approach to season words. 
     When you decide to use season words to add depth to your haiku, always remember to carefully use them as "an anchor or 'setting' in time- like a gold ring that cradles a diamond." Read another of his essay here and you'll learn more about how to use seasonal reference effectively and avoid the common mistake of creating "weather report" haiku.