ASSIGNMENT

BRIEF ANALYSIS OF A HOKKU

 

In this assignment, you will write a close analysis of one hokku. The hokku must be found in Ueda’s Bashō and His Interpreters, so that you will have various commentaries to consider. You should also consider translations other than the one in Bashō and His Interpreters (at least one other translation). Check the “Multiple Translations” section of the Study Aids, Ueda’s Matsuo Bashō (for both translation and commentary), and Barnhill’s Bashō’s Haiku.

 

In your analysis, consider the following:

  • the imagery used
  • the structure of the poem, including the image order
  • the way nature is presented (including what season it is and if possible the season word)
  • the atmosphere or mood of the poem
  • themes such as solitude, the journey, death
  • spiritual experience

You should comment on at least some of the commentaries in Bashō and His Interpreters, using them to advance your analysis (whether you agree or disagree with the commentaries). You should also comment on the different translations. The conclusion of the paper should be your own translation of the hokku.

 

The paper should be about one page. Because this is such a short paper, it needs to be very efficient. The paper should be right around one page, typed, double-spaced, one-inch margins, Times New Roman 12 point.

 

 

 

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Last updated: March 14, 2007