I’ve been reading about different poetic forms in my Writer’s Digest. Today, I’d like to explore the Gogyohka form.
Gogyohka literally translates as “five-line poem,” and hails from Japan, developed by Enta Kusakabe. The rules are quite simple. The poem consists of verse written in five lines, but each line is a separate phrase. It is described as “having a different feel to five-line verse commonly found in Western poetry.”
Here is a sample by the creator of the form, Enta Kusakabe:
What kind of
stained glass
have your
rose-coloured cheeks
passed through
It’s meant to be both concise and free. A compound or complex sentence is probably too long. The phrases may be seen as separate, but connect.
Here is my offering, inspired by a recent workout my coach named, “Fifty Shades of Pain.” Oh, yes!
Physical Engagement
Standing tall
I drop my head
to curl small
and breathe
easier dead
Aching body
acetaminophen cured
strong enough
to climb mountains
on my mat
Slam down
the medicine
in a ball
rolling around
thrusting it out
Push up
that kettle to
slide against the wall
holding the squat
just a bit more
Fifty shades of pain
reward your body
with sweaty beads
glistening skin
a sea of sparkles
What about you? Do you have lines you’d like to share? Give it a go.
photo credit: ** via photopin (license)
Editor’s note: I asked Amy if she could do a regular gig here, and she was up for something monthly. You’re all invited to participate, in a comment or ping-back. If this poetry form, and a few more ahead, sound good for an official Link-Up, let us know.
Reblogged this on The Bumble Files and commented:
I’m guest posting over at Adam’s blog, The Dependent Independent with a poem. We considered possibly doing a regular Link Up with poetry. If you’re interested, please let us know in the comments. If you like, you can share a few lines of poetry there, too. Thanks!
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I didn’t know you wrote poetry, Amy. I enjoyed reading it. I’ll think of you tomorrow during my morning workout. 🙂
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Well, I try to write poetry. I enjoy it. What about you? Are you game for a Link Up?
Aww, thanks. I’ll think of you, too as I’m writhing in pain. 🙂
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Nah, I’m not a poetry writer. Far from it. 🙂
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Well, never say never!
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An interesting concept Amy
and you do it with style my
sweet friend 🙂 Have a fantastic
start to your Monday 🙂
Andro xxx
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Thank you, Andro! Thanks for your lovely comments. You have a wonderful Monday. xox
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I could see and feel your work out, Amy. Enjoyed the firm as well.
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FORM ( although I bet you’re quite firm…given the pain and all)
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Ha ha. I have to keep climbing up that mountain! 🙂
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Thanks so much, Audra. Have you ever tried this form before? I had never heard of it.
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I’ve never thought of myself as a poet
nor do imagine myself as one
because one shouldn’t be
who they aren’t
or even trying would be a fraud.
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Excellent, Frank!! Look at you. You are, too, a poet!! I like this form because I like reading and seeing the phrases as separate. These are great all by themselves, too, and work beautifully woven together. Nice work!
Thanks for playing along. 🙂
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Thanks for the smiles!
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Okay, I have to try that out. Great post!
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Thanks! Yes, do try it out. I hope you like it.
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