Haiku in English, Part 5

ESUJ's perennially popular series Haiku in English took place on April 23 (Wed) at the Japan National Press Club.

Once again our instructor was Emiko Miyashita-sensei. Since January this year The Asahi Weekly has been publishing Miyashita Emiko's "Haiku Corner", normally in the first issue of the month. Twenty-three people participated in the session, among them readers of the Asahi Weekly, with 11 persons submitting haiku beforehand.

First, everyone was asked to close their eyes while Miyashita-sensei read a submitted haiku. After thinking about the poem, observations and impressions were exchanged.

Next, while looking at Emiko-sensei's suggestions for improving the haiku, we listened to her explanation, and then the author's own explanation, for a very high-level, intellectual and thoroughly enjoyable exchange.

As haiku are 'seasonal', most submitted poems featured the spring. Some examples:

under gorgeous cherry blossoms
a homeless old man clad in pink all over
sleeping with all smiles

Two suggestions by Emiko-sensei:
under the cherry tree
a homeless man
blanketed by blossoms

and:
under the cherry tree
a homeless man
smiling in his sleep
-----

spring wind blows cherry blossoms
scattered on the surface of pond
which compose vessels of flowers

Two suggestions by Miyashita-sensei:
gusty evening―
cherry petals carried
by the pond ripples

and:
a strong wind―
cherry petals scattered
over the pond

In a "twinkling of the eye" the delightful evening of haiku with our wonderful teacher and enthusiastic participants was over. As a souvenir of the evening, Emiko had brought dear little bags that her mother had made by hand for gathering the words that are the 'seeds' of haiku. When you have a beautiful experience in everyday life or feel something deeply in your heart, why not write a haiku yourself.

English Club

On April 15 (Tue.) English Club was held at Nikkei Notio in Marunouchi Oazo. The venue was once again filled to its 60-seat capacity with ESUJ members and those selected from the general public by lottery. The speaker was Dr. Enrico Martini, Director for Japan, Asia and Oceania of the Italian State Tourist Board (ENIT), speaking on the topic of "An Invitation to Italy's Treasures". A large majority of the audience had paid a visit to Italy, with may repeaters, demonstrating the popularity of the country. Dr. Martini spoke of the "golden route" of art cities of Rome, Milan, Venice, Florence and Naples but also mentioned the 42 World Heritage Sites (of which two are in the Vatican), spa towns, Italy's mountains and coast, and local festivals, while further demonstrating the essence of the nation's endless wonders with printed materials and beautiful photographs. He left much time for "Q&A" and, indeed, the questions flowed from all directions, further expanding the pleasure of exploring Italy. This was the last time to meet at Nikkei Notio, our lecture site for the past four months.

Future Activities

English Club Meeting in May: Wed. May 21, 18:30-19:45
Nissay Life Plaza Marunouchi (next to Marunouchi Oazo Bildg) Speaker: Ms. Michelle Arnot, "An American Juror Offeres Insights for the future Saiban In System"

English Club Meeting in June: Mon. June 16, 18:30-19:45
Nissay Life Plaza Marunouchi (next to Marunouchi Oazo Bildg)
Speaker: Mr. Tom Dillon

Latest JITOW Column http://www.esuj.gr.jp/jitow/jp
Japan's Role in Civil Society and its Symbiotic Capacity―Shibusawa Ken

Future Activities

May Evening Gala 2008 〜ESUJ 10th Anniv. Gala Dinner Dance〜
May 27 (Tue.) 18:30-20:30 at Meiji Kinenkan
Jazz band! Dance! Door Prize! Black tie welcome!!
Deadline: May 19 (Mon.) Admission: Member ¥7,000 Others ¥8,000

ESUJ Debate 2008 (Adult's Shakaijin Debate Competition)
June 7 (Sat.) 10:00-19:00 at KFC Rooms (Ryogoku)
This year we have the largest number ever of teams to apply, and many first-time participants. Enthusiastic debate by adults must be very enjoyable and exciting! Audience attendance is free, and there is no need to reserve a place. Final round will commence at 17:00. We welcome your attendance. Details are available at the ESUJ web site.

ESUJ AGM and Lecture
June 19 (Thu) AGM: 17:30- Lecture: 18:30-19:30
at International House (Roppongi)
"Climate Change: Why we need to act now" by H.E. Sir G. Fry