Author Description

This volume contains a collection of haiku along with descriptions which were added in order to clarify the background of the poems. These adaptations of traditional haiku were created during the years 2017 - 2018. They include examples which reflect observations of nature, diverse cultures, exotic experiences, political situations, historic sites, memorials, etc. Intense and fast paced travel experiences prompted using this dramatically concentrated form of poetry to record thoughts, feelings and visual sensations. Occasionally word plays and alliteration are used to enhance and modify the strictly traditional haiku style. James A. Smith is a retired professor of German Language and Literature who currently lives in northeastern Pennsylvania. Whether at home or traveling, he delights in contemplating the intimacies of nature and the world around him. These personal experiences and encounters are then captured in photos or translated into haiku verse.