How to write a Tanka poem

The Tanka poem is very similar to haiku but Tanka poems have more syllables and use simile, metaphor and personification.

There are five lines in a Tanka poem. Here is an example that I wrote!

Line one - 5 syllables Silent desert night
Line two - 7 syllables softly illuminated
Line three - 5 syllable coyote laments
Line four - 7 syllables the cold rocks weep tears of sand
Line five - 7 syllables moonlight's soft touch comforts all

Tanka poems are written about nature, seasons, love, sadness and other strong emotions. This form of poetry dates back almost 1200 years!