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08 Ogenblik/Moment Haiku by Henk Luijten

written by Vincent Huying

28 February 2022

08 Ogenblik/Moment Haiku

Introduction

# 08 Ogenblik/Moment Haiku is the eighth 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.

# 08 Ogenblik/Moment Haiku by Henk Luijten

08 Ogenblik/Moment Haiku

What the poem is about

The “08 Ogenblik/Moment ” Haiku by Henk Luijten is about how we look into the eyes of another creature. In the case of this poem, a cow. Hence, the reference to this moment having a holy touch. For the reference of the holy cow in India. The loyal or faithful cow eyes you too may have once seen or are familiar with. The eyes of the cow, also look at the beholder who writes about this moment. Is there some kind of recognition? Maybe is there a remembrance displayed in two pair of eyes? From the designation ‘holy,’ speaks love. Obviously, this love is is mutual. 
For the translation into English a specific Dutch and German word pun arises in this poem. The words ‘ogen blikken’ have been separated purposely. Notwithstanding, that these two words bonded into one, in Dutch, means ‘moment.’ It’s like a timeframe in English. Take ‘ogenblik’ into this conception, timeframe would be eyeframe. Yet, Camille chose the moment to be the best translation in this case. It is one of those Dutch words, which are very hard to translate. Therefore the Dutch word pun cannot be transferred into English. Nevertheless, the poem even in Englis, still has this sweet touch of recognition.

Image for # 08 Ogenblik/Moment Haiku by Henk Luijten

08 Ogenblik/Moment Haiku

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 eighth 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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