I’ve been challenging myself to try new forms and types of writing. When I saw the annual haiku contest through Whole Life Soaps and sponsored by Rattle, I was inspired by the theme “Transformation in Nature”. I admittedly have less experience writing this particular style of poetry, so I did my research by reading through past winners on the Whole Life Soaps website as well as finding more well-known haikus (such as translations of traditional Japanese haikus) trying to understand the feel of what makes a good haiku. Then, I sat down and thought about the theme, what images filtered through my mind, what words sparked. Ultimately, many drafts later, I submitted something I was proud of.
Bill McConnell, the owner of Whole Life Soaps, also liked it, and I was so surprised and honored to place first in the contest! One of the amazing perks that comes with the win is that my haiku will be etched into handmade soap. It is such a unique, delightful prize. Along with my poem, the prize announcement includes the haikus of the other top 19 finalists, all of which are definitely worth savoring, as well as what Bill McConnell liked about each one.
My poem was also published through the Rattle website, which is a poetry journal for which I have deep respect.
I hope you enjoy my haiku as well, and I would love to hear your thoughts on it as well as the other wonderful poetry on both websites.