Have you noticed that whenever you set out to write something regardless of when or where – there is one thing that’s never different? It’s you – of course! You are always the one writing your words. It is my belief that when one writes in a haibun style it does not have to be written in first person, even though I also believe that most haibun are personal.

A reflection of who you are. A poetic expression of how you view things. A thought, an experience, or a memory. That’s the nature of it. And because it is usually personal, this can be difficult for some. Writing in the first person about thoughts and feelings, memories and adventures can be hard.

But what if you were someone else? What if you put “you the writer” (that you are) into a character mode and then wrote from his or her perspective?

Want to give it a try? Write in the first person, except remember you’re in character!

Here goes:

The Setting: You’ve been out on special assignment for a month. The jungle is hot, and humid. Your guide has gotten you lost twice and you have concerns about the natives in the area. But you’re close to reaching your goal. It’s evening now … you’re exhausted and yet you’re preoccupied, the jungle fauna beautiful, the animals exotic but dangerous, what are your thoughts … don’t forget you’re writing as someone else but it’s still personal.

Take out your travel journal and write. Take along your sketchpad or camera, if you’re so inclined and write one or two (at the most three) paragraphs (your written prose) with your haiku included in the mix (if you have questions about writing a haibun click here )

When your finished and you’ve added (at your choice) any illustrations or photographs (not necessary), if you like, publish your haibun on your blog.

Good writing be with you,

Penny