The Two Halves of a Classic Tanka
Tanka poems balance objective external observations with subjective internal feelings across 31 syllables:
Tanka Checker
Check your tanka format, syllable count, and traditional 5-7-5-7-7 structure as you type with real-time 5-line syllable analysis.
L15 syl
0 / 5
L27 syl
0 / 7
L35 syl
0 / 5
L47 syl
0 / 7
L57 syl
0 / 7
Pattern: 5 • 7 • 5 • 7 • 7 syllables
Tanka Syllable Breakdown (5-7-5-7-7)
| Line | Breakdown | Syllables |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | — | 0 of 5 |
| 2 | — | 0 of 7 |
| 3 | — | 0 of 5 |
| 4 | — | 0 of 7 |
| 5 | — | 0 of 7 |
Syllable counts are shown in parentheses next to each word.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a tanka poem?
A tanka (meaning "short poem" in Japanese) is a classic poetic form consisting of five unrhymed lines with a 5-7-5-7-7 syllable structure, totaling 31 syllables. It originated over 1,200 years ago in classical Japanese imperial court literature.
How is a tanka different from a haiku?
A haiku has 3 lines with a 5-7-5 structure (17 syllables), whereas a tanka adds two concluding lines of 7 syllables each (5-7-5-7-7, 31 syllables). The upper unit (kami-no-ku, 5-7-5) sets up an image or scene, and the lower unit (shimo-no-ku, 7-7) deepens it with personal reflection, emotion, or philosophical response.
What is a "pivot turn" in a tanka poem?
In traditional tanka composition, line 3 often functions as a "pivot turn" (or pivot word/concept) connecting the natural imagery of lines 1 and 2 to the intimate human emotions expressed in lines 4 and 5.
Does a tanka need to rhyme?
No. Like haiku, traditional tanka poems do not rhyme. The form relies on emotional resonance, vivid sensory imagery, and syllable cadence.
Is my poetry private?
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