Selected Haiku
by

Mike Lawary

Global Haiku Tradition
Millikin University, Summer 2001

Most of my haiku comes from experiences that I have had. Whether it is from childhood or just remembering a moment, it's an experience of mine. I come from a very large family, and for the most part, we are very close. Family is very important to me. I'm not used to being alone, therefore I hate it when I am. A good haiku must make me think about something. I must relate to it in some kind of way. If I can't relate to it or even picture it, I usually don't go back to it. A lot of my haiku have seasonal words. I really don't believe that every haiku must have a seasonal word. It all depends on the setting. Another important element in haiku is, is it realistic? Thus, meaning can this actually happen. This goes back to me either relating to it or just picturing it.

sun in his face— the baby swings without a care (Illinois Times, June 28, 2001)

summer reunion no one speaks . . . of the deceased

summer school— driving in a circle no place to park

winter storm . . . her bulging belly the wet car seat

dogs barking— two men running in the night

dripping sweat . . . we walk the tracks with the sun

cool summer night         we met . . .        fireworks

baby pictures looking at him I see me

talking to the dirt . . . I visit my cousin