Clay Boutwell

Yumi Boutwell

Enjoy and Fully Understand 25 Haiku by Masaoka Shiki (正岡子規, 1867–1902)

Haiku fascinates people worldwide—so much emotion and meaning expressed in so few words. Yet, outside Japan, much of its depth is often only encountered in translation. While translations can capture the spirit, the cultural context, wordplay, and rhythm are easily lost.

This book is designed for beginner to intermediate learners of Japanese who want to experience haiku in its original language while building vocabulary, grammar, and cultural understanding.

In this expanded edition, you’ll explore 25 of Masaoka Shiki’s finest haiku, each presented in both Japanese and English. Every poem includes:

Multiple translations—from literal to more interpretive

Commentary in both Japanese and English explaining subtle cultural and linguistic nuances

Comprehensive vocabulary lists with definitions and grammar notes

QR codes linking to clear audio recordings of each haiku and commentary

Anki flashcard deck for learning the haiku on the go

Downloadable sound files for offline listening

About Masaoka Shiki (正岡子規)

Masaoka Shiki was a poet, essayist, and literary critic who helped revitalize traditional Japanese poetry forms such as haiku (俳句) and tanka (短歌) during the Meiji period.

Born in Matsuyama, Ehime Prefecture, his birth name was Masaoka Tsunenori (正岡常規). He later adopted the pen name Shiki (子規, “cuckoo”), inspired by the belief that the cuckoo coughs up blood when it sings—a symbol that reflected Shiki’s own struggle with tuberculosis.

Despite living only 34 years, Shiki wrote nearly 20,000 haiku and is regarded as one of the four great masters of haiku, alongside Matsuo Bashō, Yosa Buson, and Kobayashi Issa.

What You’ll Get

Read, hear, and understand 25 of Masaoka Shiki’s classic haiku

Perfect for beginner to intermediate students of Japanese

Word-by-word definitions and clear grammar explanations

Cultural insights that illuminate the poems’ hidden depth

QR codes for instant audio access, plus downloadable MP3s

Anki flashcard deck for learning the haiku on the go

Newly updated with more haiku, richer commentary, and modern design

Ready to deepen your cultural knowledge while improving your Japanese? Add this book to your cart today.

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