One of the most intricate Japanese Poetry forms is the Choka. Also referred to as a “Long Poem,” the Choka often tells a story. It does not rhyme, and offers a choice of syllabic form structure, as follows:
5 – 7 – 7 – 5 – 7 – 7, etc.
~or~
5 – 7 – 5 – 5 – 7 – 5, etc.
The poem is as long as you make it, adhering to your chosen structure.
WALT’S CHOICE OF CHOKA:
THE MUSIC OF YOUR HEART, by Walter J Wojtanik
Hearts beat in rhythm,
a song of true love’s making,
never forsaking
the message it gives.
It lives to keep us dancing
for hearts are that way.
We chose how we step,
a waltz of passion’s fire.
What we desire
keeps moving our feet.
It’s the music of your heart
in this life’s slow dance.
POETIC BLOOMINGS 