Hiking Haiku is a collection of the succinct Japanese poem form, all of them describing the experience of hiking according to Pasatiempo, the poet and hiker. For anyone wanting a poetry book which is accessible and relatable but still retains the experience of nature in description, then this would be a great starting point.
There are a variety of hiking experiences described here from forest to desert to mountain and what is offered by nature whilst enjoying her company from the views, to the challenge, to the reward. There is also mention of camping and the campfire.
I love haikus: to encapsulate a feeling, an experience, a sensation in three lines within a smattering of syllables is incredibly difficult, restrained and contained as the poet is by form, but when they are done well, they are enlightening and can illuminate with a clarity which is revelatory. And in Pasatiempo’s collection, there are some moments where this is achieved and the sublimity of the experience is tangible. However, there were also times where the haikus were not true to form – too many syllables – and these felt less considered, losing the rhythm that is suggested by the rigid structure of the haiku.
But what this collection lacks in precision, it makes up for in wonderful presentation: each haiku has its own page and is written on top of the artwork which accompanies it, a bright and colourful backdrop which evokes a pictorial representation of the words. They have an Impressionistic feel with a hint of vintage poster and I loved them.
In terms of what the poet set out to do, I think that this is achieved and for anyone who loves hiking, they will find much within these pages which will reflect and perhaps put words to their own experience. And for those who are not so keen on donning a pair of sturdy boots and immersing themselves in nature and all it has to offer, there is still merit in the collection for it to be perused and enjoyed.
Scuffed Granny 