The Way Of Haiku: Waking Up Through Writing (7 of 9)

Pico Iyer discusses Haiku as a reflection of Japanese culture, highlighting its brevity, impermanence, and communal aspect. He notes Haiku’s integration into modern Japanese life, from education to public displays, underscoring its function as an exercise in mindfulness and a celebration of nature’s rhythms. Through anecdotes, Iyer illustrates how Haiku and Japanese cultural practices emphasize interconnectedness, minimalism, and attentiveness to the present moment. He shares the poignant life story of the Haiku poet Issa, whose works embody resilience and gratitude amidst personal tragedies, drawing a parallel between Issa’s outlook and the Dalai Lama’s approach to life’s hardships. Iyer concludes by reflecting on Haiku’s ability to foster a collective spirit and realistic acceptance of life’s impermanence

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