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American Haiku: The Poetry of Philip Vassallo

Robbie Carter

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Published in American Haiku Philip Vassallo

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Philip Vassallo is one of the most important figures in the history of American haiku. His work is characterized by its simplicity, clarity, and deep understanding of the natural world. Vassallo's haiku are often praised for their ability to capture the essence of a moment or a season in a few short lines.

American Haiku

by Philip Vassallo

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	781 KB
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Early Life and Influences

Philip Vassallo was born in New York City in 1934. He developed a love of poetry at a young age, and he began writing haiku in the early 1960s. Vassallo was influenced by the work of Japanese haiku masters such as Matsuo Bashō, Issa, and Kobayashi Issa. He also drew inspiration from the American haiku poets Gary Snyder, Jack Kerouac, and Allen Ginsberg.

The Haiku Form

Haiku is a traditional Japanese form of poetry that consists of three lines, with five syllables in the first line, seven syllables in the second line, and five syllables in the third line. Haiku often focus on nature, and they often use imagery and metaphor to create a vivid and evocative picture in the reader's mind.

Vassallo's Haiku

Vassallo's haiku are often characterized by their simplicity and clarity. He uses simple language to create vivid images of the natural world. His haiku are often full of wonder and appreciation for the beauty of the world around him.

Here are a few examples of Vassallo's haiku:

Spring rain falls
On the petals of the cherry tree
The world is reborn

Summer breeze blows
The leaves of the aspen tree
Rustle like whispers

Autumn leaves fall
The earth is covered in a blanket of gold
Winter is coming

Legacy

Philip Vassallo is one of the most important figures in the history of American haiku. His work has helped to popularize the haiku form in the United States, and he has inspired many other poets to write haiku. Vassallo's haiku are a valuable contribution to American literature, and they continue to be read and enjoyed by people all over the world.