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.
