Type of Japanese poem (5) Crossword Clue
Answer: TANKA (5 letters)
TANKA refers to a traditional Japanese poem consisting of five lines with a syllabic pattern of 5-7-5-7-7. It predates the haiku and often explores themes of love, nature, and human emotion in a concise, lyrical form. The word tanka means “short poem” in Japanese, and it originated in Japan’s early classical period as part of court poetry. Unlike haiku, which tends to focus on a single image or moment, a tanka allows a more personal or reflective tone, giving the poet room for emotional expression within its elegant brevity.
Why “ TANKA” Fits
The clue asks for a single word (5 letters) meaning “type of Japanese poem.” The answer, TANKA, fits perfectly:
- Primary keyword targeting: Tanka refers to a traditional Japanese poetic form consisting of 31 syllables arranged in five lines (5-7-5-7-7).
- Direct match: With five letters, tanka precisely matches the clue’s enumeration.
- Precise meaning: The word defines a specific and highly regarded poetic style that predates the haiku, making it the correct and culturally authentic solution.
A Bit of Background
Tanka holds a prestigious place in the history of Japanese literature:
- Origin and history: The term tanka translates directly as “short poem.” It originated in Japan more than 1,200 years ago during the Nara period, forming part of the waka poetic tradition.
- Structure: A tanka follows a 31-syllable format divided into five lines (5-7-5-7-7). While similar in spirit to the haiku, tanka allows for longer emotional expression and reflection.
- Themes: Common subjects include love, nature, impermanence, seasons, and personal emotion.
- Examples:
- In the quiet dawn / A bird’s cry fades with the mist / Winter’s breath remains / Beneath my heart it lingers / The memory of your warmth.
- This example captures the tanka’s delicate blend of imagery and feeling.
Crossword Solving Insight
- Quick crossword clues like “type of Japanese poem (5)” often refer to classical forms of short poetry:
- Alternatives might include haiku (5) or renga (5), but tanka fits perfectly as the broader and older poetic form encompassing haiku’s structure.
- The specific enumeration (5) and cultural reference to Japan immediately narrow the answer to tanka.
- Solvers familiar with literature-based clues recognize that tanka commonly appears in crosswords focused on culture or art.
Related Information and LSI Keywords
- Related terms: haiku, waka, renga, poetry form, Japanese verse.
- LSI keywords included: Japanese literature, short poem, syllabic structure, poetic form, 31 syllables.
- Cultural significance: Many Japanese emperors, including Tenji and Shikibu, composed tanka as part of courtly communication.
