What Is The Shortest Poem Known To Man?

What Is The Shortest Poem Known To Man?

The concept of the “shortest poem” is subjective, as the definition of a poem can vary. However, there are several contenders for this title, each offering a unique perspective on the nature of poetry and brevity.

1. Haiku

Haiku, a traditional Japanese poetic form, is composed of three lines with a syllable count of 5-7-5. While not the shortest poem technically, its succinctness and evocative power make it a strong contender.

For example, the famous haiku by Matsuo Bashō:

“An ancient pond,
A frog jumps into the pond,
Splash! Silence again.”

2. Tanka

Similar to haiku, tanka is another Japanese poetic form consisting of five lines with a syllable count of 5-7-5-7-7. While longer than haiku, tanka allows for slightly more depth and narrative.

An example by Kobayashi Issa:

“In this world of dew
Every morning is new—
Do not speak of despair.”

3. Senryu

Senryu, a subgenre of haiku, focuses on satire or humor rather than the traditional themes of nature and seasons. Its brevity and wit make it a popular form for modern poets.

For instance, a senryu by Yosa Buson:

“The old man’s fart
Echoes through the empty house,
What a lonely sound.”

4. Line Break Poem

Line break poems, as the name suggests, consist of a single line or a few lines arranged in a visually striking way. They often play with the space on the page and the reader’s expectations.

An example by e.e. cummings:

“(i carry your heart with me(i carry it in”

5. Micropoetry

Micropoetry is a contemporary form that pushes the boundaries of brevity to the extreme. These poems can consist of a single word, phrase, or even a punctuation mark.

For instance, a poem by Charles Simic:

“dot”

6. Shape Poems

Shape poems use the visual arrangement of words on the page to create an image or shape that relates to the poem’s theme. They can be particularly striking and memorable.

An example by George Herbert:


/ /\
| | |
| | |
| | |
\ \/


“The Altar”

The Power of Brevity

Regardless of their length, these poems demonstrate the power of brevity in conveying emotions, capturing moments, and provoking thought. They remind us that even in the smallest of forms, poetry can have a profound impact.

Questions and Answers

1. What is the haiku’s traditional syllable count?

   • 5-7-5

2. Which Japanese poetic form is known for its humor or satire?

   • Senryu

3. What type of poem uses visual arrangement to create a shape or image?

   • Shape poem

4. True or False: Micropoetry can consist of a single punctuation mark.

   • True

5. Name one of the contenders for the title of “shortest poem known to man.”

   • Any of the poems mentioned in the article, such as the haiku “An ancient pond” or the senryu “The old man’s fart.”