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Kouta Poems

I have consistently explored Japanese poetry forms across the years. Boketto, Dodoitsu, Gogyyohka, Haibun. Haiku, Kimo and Tanka most among them. Today, allow me to present Kouta poems -a four line quatrain. It is renowned as a traditonal song of geisha.

The word 'kouta' means little song. They come in two versions:

Version 1 -7575 syllables

Version 2 7775 syllables.

The kouta has no other rules and generally follow themes of ordinary life. They are an ancient form that harkens back to the 14th century.

I have chosen version 2 (7775 syllables) for my kouta poems. My poems deal with introspection and observation of the human condition. I'm in that sort of mood so I went with it...













Conflicted Thoughts

My heart rages with conflict

I possess no direction

Your words light the way forward

And my world settles.

Alan j Wright


Deliver Light

Overthrow this inner doubt

With memory of good deeds

Utter words consolingly

And draw light your way.

Alan j Wright


Find Joy

I dare to be bold with joy

And again I am lifted

Comfortable to sing out

Stirred by inner strength.

Alan j Wright


 It is Poetry Friday and our host this time is Cathy Mere at Merely Day By Day. Cathy presents a thought provoking poem about the status of women across generations and the need to continue to raise voices.


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