KYOKA1. The syllable structure is 5-7-5-7-7.2. It divides in two, the 5-7-5 part is called kami-no-ku ("upper phrase"), and the 7-7 part is called shimo-no-ku ("lower phrase").3. There is a subtle turn, often unexpected in the middle of the poem, usually after line two or three.4. It has a syllable count of thirty one (or fewer syllables).5. It is humorous verse or a parody of a famous Tanka.6. May contain internal rhyme, should avoid end rhyme.7. Try to punctuate lightly, though some publishers prefer no punctuation.TANKA1. The syllable structure is 5-7-5-7-7.2. It divides in two, the 5-7-5 part is called kami-no-ku ("upper phrase"), and the 7-7 part is called shimo-no-ku ("lower phrase").3. There is a subtle turn, often unexpected in the middle of the poem, usually after line two or three.4. It has a syllable count of thirty one (or fewer syllables).5. It uses images instead of an analytical approach, which may make it appear fragmented.6. A Tanka shouldn't need a title, but it is not unusual for the Japanese Tanka to have a dai (topic) where we would put a title.7. Unlike Haiku, Tanka are not generally about nature, they more usually cover human nature or predicaments.8. It often contains two images, one 'outer' image usually a nature scene, and one 'inner' scene which deals with the feelings and emotions.9. May contain internal rhyme, should avoid end rhyme.10. Try to punctuate lightly, though some publishers prefer no punctuation.
waste overflowing wilted rose buds, last night’s meal rotten discarded choices we’ve made yesterday the stench unmistakable Kyoka is to the tanka what senryû is to the haiku
