A traditional poetic form of Japanese origin, the tanka consists of a single five-line stanza, with no rhyme scheme and a defined syllabic verse pattern of 5-7-5-7-7.
Consider the subject matter that you wish to write about. Remember that this is a fairly short form, so you'll have a very limited amount of space.
2
Keep in mind that the pattern of the first three lines of any tanka is identical to that of the haiku. The first line consists of a total of five syllables, followed by a line with seven syllables, followed by a line with five syllables.
3
Conclude the tanka with two lines consisting of seven syllables each.
4
Revise as needed.
Tips & Warnings
As with most poetic forms borrowed from Japanese tradition, the total number of syllables is counted rather than just the number of stressed syllables.
Do not let peers who claim to be poets discourage you from using forms. When you hear a poet say how much he or she dislikes writing in form, remember that a great artist sees the opportunities in every canvas, regardless or shape or size. A poor artist sees only the limitations.
