EN340 / IN350 Global Haiku Tradition
Dr. Randy Brooks
Millikin University PACE November 2004
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RustyVinson
Rusty Vinson

The reading and writing of haiku is new to me. I was just introduced to this wonderful poetry not long ago. Few words written can have so much meaning. I would have never dreamed haiku would mean so much to me. The images created in my mind from the few lines written can be so vivid. I took this class with Dr. Randy Brooks because of all the positive comments made to me by other students. Everyone who has taken this class has found it to be a sheer joy and pleasure. I now understand why haiku has been so enjoyable to them. I have always heard that a picture is worth a thousand words but with haiku, a few words are worth a thousand pictures. Haiku pictures are found in the mind of those who read and enjoy the memories of the thoughts and smells of those who have touched your life. Haiku takes one to places of imagination or real life experiences. My haiku stems from memories of real life experiences. I have chosen some of my favorite writings to share with you. The class has come to its close, but my joy for haiku will continue. I would like to thank Randy Brooks for opening my eyes to the poetry everyone can enjoy.

 


       Eyes

nursing home
autumn eyes
staring from bedroom window

wondering mind
many thoughts

flowered housecoat
bed sores
on backside

brightened eyes
shadows in the distance
become clearer

faces appear
grandchildren on the sidewalk

hugs and kisses
glowing face
not forgotten

by Nila Vinson & Rusty Vinson


winter storm
ice on the power line
candles flicker


snuggling close
ten little toes
under the covers

 

 

harsh words
mom
goes to her room


emergency room
baby cries
for the first time

 

 

       Still There

old victrola
shadows of the past
grandma dances

reminiscing of the days
when we used to laugh

faded memories
teeth in a cup
grandpa’s laughter

together
we once were
in love

grandma and grandpa
crank the victrola once more

our passion
still there
for the last dance

by Rita Marlow & Rusty Vinson


     Rengay Project

old tennis shoes
badly worn
frayed laces

sitting in a corner
worn no more

replaced by a chair
blisters on hands
pulling me along

memories of when
I stood tall
alone

knock
on the door

friends are here
not forgotten
I stand tall

by Nila Vinson & Rusty Vinson

 

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©2004 Randy Brooks, Millikin University, Decatur, Illinois || all rights reserved for original authors