Haiku of the Profane
(Aug. 12, 2010) Editor:
Even though he follows perfectly the haiku syllable pattern, Joel Mielke’s well drawn and cleverly worded cartoon, “Humboldt County Haiku #2” should be titled more accurately “Humboldt County Senryu” (“Mielke,” Aug. 5). Japanese haiku poems are spiritual and idyllic, referring to seasons of nature. Senryu poems follow the same syllable pattern but are more unruly, dealing with daily life and emotions, emphasizing satire, comedy and criticism. Mielke’s spoof of midnight motorcycles certainly fits into the latter category.
The characteristics of Senryu poetry were made clear in an Aug. 3 workshop at the Bayside Grange centered around the book Sanae, Senryu Poet: Her Life in 5-7-5, which was edited by the poet’s daughter, Aiko Uyeki, and illustrated by her granddaughter, Amy Uyeki. For those interested, there will be more readings from the book soon in Arcata, followed by a series of presentations in other cities. Information on the book and tour schedule can be found at www.amyuyeki.com.
Orr Marshall, Eureka
Sweet Spot: Oh, so close! Toughest call in months, but we’re gonna say that Orr Marshall’s informative and perfectly timed letter, with its tantalizing hints at new continents of literature to explore, just barely beats out Timothy Crlenjak’s majestic spleen. Better luck next time, Tim! Orr Marshall wins a Bon Boniere sundae for sending our favorite letter of the week.
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on the cover
Railroad!
Proposed lines ‘set rich blood a-tingling’ in early 1900s
Some Other Proposed North Coast Railroads
Choo-choo Fantasies
Exposing this east-west rail nonsense
seven-o-heaven
Undeterred Will
Will chides Andrew for lack of attention to detail and makes plans for his inevitable victory.
Today
44th Annual Kinetic Grand Championship Race
STAFF PICK / events, art, outdoors, sports, for kids, free / 9 a.m.-6 p.m. A 3-day, 42-mile kinetic sculpture race over land, sand, mud and water! LeMans start at the Noon Whistle on the Arcata Plaza. Follow the race through Manila, Eureka and into Ferndale on Memorial Day for the Glorious Finish. kineticgrandchampionship.com. 889-3024.
Flow 2012 Fashion Show
STAFF PICK / events / 8 p.m. Arcata Theatre Lounge, 1036 G St. Student designed and produced clothing. Fundraiser for Arcata Arts Institute. $35/$25 students. artsinstitute.net. 822-1220.
Woodside Preschool's Rummage/Bake Sale
events / 8 a.m.-noon. Woodside Preschool, 900 Hodgson St, Eureka. www.woodsidepreschool.com. 445-9132.
Lanphere Dunes Restoration
STAFF PICK / outdoors / 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Meet at Pacific Union School. Help remove non-native invasives at the Lanphere Dunes Unit of the Humboldt Bay National Wildlife Refuge. Tools and gloves provided, wear work clothes and bring water. Carpool to the protected site. 444-1397.
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