Introduction
# 05 Herfst2/Autumn2 Haiku is the fifth of the Haiku writings by Henk Luijten. These Haikus have originally been written by Henk in his native language Dutch. Shortly after we got acquainted Camille made the illustrations for the writings. Not familiar with Dutch as a language yet. Consequently, it was a project through which Camille made herself more familiar with some of the aspects of the Dutch language. To catch the gist of the poems and translate the words into an image. Further, she also translated the Dutch poems into English.
# 05 Herfst2/Autumn2 Haiku by Henk Luijten
What the poem is about
The “05 Herfst2/Autumn2” Haiku by Henk Luijten is about how we come of age. In the autumn of our lives we get confronted with the unpleasant side effects of the mileage the years put on us. One of those side effects is the loss of hair. In light of the metaphor which makes our physical bodies into trees. The decidious ones loose their leaves every autumn. The walk of life we take, is like a year ring onf that very tree.
Camille chose to translate this haiku almost literally. Nevertheless, she left out the word ‘head’ on the last line. That choice, because in English the reference of the ‘this tree’ is considered to be a representation of the writer. In Dutch that similar aspect may be present. However, in Dutch it is considered less strong. Also, to add the ‘head’ would become a genuine jaw breaker in English. Which in turn isn’t much appreciated in English poetry. Apart from the pun factor, of course.
Image for # 05 Herfst2/Autumn2 Haiku by Henk Luijten
Illustration and translation into English by Camille Wilkinson
More examples of Haiku writings from Henk Luijten in Dutch and English
We hope you like the Haiku writings by Henk Luijten
Here, you have read the fifth issue of the Haiku writings by Henk Luijten. We naturally hope you will read them and appreciate them. As for the illustrations by Camille. Evidently, we hope they will indeed enhance the meaning of Henk’s writing. And that this very project may be an example and of assistance. As a means to help each and one another to understand each other better, beyond the borders of our native languages.
Read more about the Haiku Writings by Henk Luijten here>>
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