Global Haiku • January 2016
Dr. Randy Brooks

Pieces of Me

by
Megan McGurr

Before taking my Global Haiku class, I had no idea what haiku was. I didn't know how to read it let alone write it. But as the class went on I learned more and more and became better aware of this poetry. My haiku are filled with feelings that I usually wouldn't freely write about. Haiku, for me, are a way to get my thoughts and feelings on paper. I am able to express myself through writing and I think that is why I enjoy doing it. My best haiku come from feelings of love and heartbreak. I think a lot of people are able to relate to them, which is what I really wanted. I think going through a heartbreak in the past has definitely spurred my creativity in writing haiku. It feels good to be able to get feelings off my chest and create something incredible with it. Learning about haiku has definitely been an incredible experience. It is a way to capture senses and feelings and reconnect with old memories. I would encourage all to try it.

late in the night
voices of broken love . . .
burned out streetlight

icy winter wind
I grasp tighter
as he lets go

picnic by the headstone
a piece of me
                    buried

into the light
a familiar outstretched hand
invites her home

Navy wife—
wherever he is
she is home

heavy silence
weaving through a full house—
sudden downpour

entangled in him
his blue eyes shine brightly
I forget to hate him

late in the night
Mother’s lullaby
crickets

I look up to the sky
stars shining back at me
you are the brightest

sun setting over the ocean
I enjoy the view
of her bare olive skin

tattoos cover his arms
he said he didn’t like
commitment