PACE Global Haiku • Spring 2007 Dr. Randy Brooks

Jenna Pelej

Purple Umbrella by Jenna Pelej My first exposure to haiku was in second grade and only included the basic 5-7-5 format. When I registered for the haiku class by Dr. Brooks at Millikin University, I thought I would be doing the same type of haiku. I have been greatly surprised and pleased by the haiku I have been introduced to during this class. I have seen a whole new world of haiku and have had my own haiku influenced by great haiku authors like Bashô, Peggy Lyles, George Swede, and Penny Harter. I find many inspirations for my haiku in my everyday life, such as college, spring break, friendships, dating, cooking, and working out. I also recalled memories from my own childhood to write some of my haiku. I found writing haiku to be very therapeutic and enjoyable. I was very anxious to share my haiku with my peers and hear their comments. I also shared my haiku with my family to get their reactions and input. I plan to continue writing haiku in the future. My haiku do not always have a seasonal element, but I feel that each of my haiku draw upon the senses and can be easily visualized by the reader. I hope that you enjoy the haiku I have included in this collection. I have included some of my personal favorites, as well as the favorites of my peers. Please feel free to share your own comments regarding my haiku and to pick your own favorites! Jenna Pelej May 11, 2007

purple umbrella untouched puddle dance in the rain

summer afternoon a familiar tune two scoops for me

old lace dress saved for a daughter who was never born

I stand at his grave our first meeting “Good morning Grandpa”

slick sidewalks an old woman balances a soup pot on her side

chica bonita bartenders gossip good thing I speak Spanish

crowded bar a smile and a tip get us drinks first

© 2007, Randy Brooks • Millikin University
All rights returned to authors upon publication.