Shōdōka

Shōdōka is a Japanese poetic form originating in the Heian period, consisting of a three-line poem with a 5-7-5 syllable structure, similar to a haiku. It often emphasizes seasonal themes, natural beauty, or emotional expression, capturing a moment or feeling succinctly. Shōdōka's brevity encourages clarity and depth, reflecting traditional Japanese aesthetics that value simplicity and subtlety. While less rigid than a haiku in thematic scope, it shares the focus on nature and emotion, serving as a poetic meditation or reflection in a concise format.