Global Haiku • Spring 2017
Dr. Randy Brooks

After You Leave

by
Emily Chudzik

A common theme in my haiku is relationships. I find my best work comes out when I focus on that theme. I decided to choose my favorites and create a story. Each haiku is specifically placed in order to tell the story of a relationship, from its new and exciting beginning to its uncertain ending. While compiling my collection, I noticed I often focus on stars, coffee, and small imperfections, like freckles or moles. I think this brings a nice level of continuity to the story. Each haiku is derived from a specific instance in my life or from stories my friends have told me. Only a few are made up, but they all somehow fit together to create something bigger. I decided to call my collection After You Leave after a line in one of my haiku. Although the collection deals with the relationship, the title suggests what happens in the end. I hope you enjoy After You Leave.

Reader's Introduction

After You Leave mainly focuses on the relationship between two people. The haikus stand alone individually, but when they come together, they create a bigger story. They start at the beginning of a relationship, most likely a first love. As they progress, the two people in the story slowly begin to drift apart until they are no longer together. It is a relatable story with snapshots of a relationship. At its core, it is a bittersweet collection about young love.

Kate Gebultowicz

suburban driveway
my first
kiss

the curve of your
lips remind me
sandcastles

stargazing—
the brightest one
sits next to me

connecting your
freckles—
the Big Dipper

drinking coffee
the next morning—
officially lovers

lingering on my lips
the feeling of
your name

sunlight enters
a narrow window—
the shape of you

on the dance floor
spinning
planets

winter
the first time i kissed
your scars

hanging
in my closet
your high school sweatshirt

morning—
i dress myself
in your clothes

coffee date
staring at the
mole above your lip

lying on the
trampoline
mapping out our future

fun.
on the stereo
you lean in to kiss me

quiet morning
i make your bed
after you leave

your eyes
undress
my mind

hardwood floor
fingers softly trace
my beauty marks

end of the movie
you open the door
but don't kiss me goodnight

when the stars
left your eyes
i knew we were over

coffee brews—
you tell me you
need more time