Discovering Haiku: "Three Simple Lines" by Natalie Goldberg Book Review

As a poet, haiku has always held a special place in my heart and is why I began studying Japanese. Recently, I finished reading “Three Simple Lines” by Natalie Goldberg, and here’s my take on it:

Quick Take:

Natalie’s journey through haiku and Japan is a captivating exploration. I thoroughly enjoyed it.

Brief Dive:

“Three Simple Lines” by Natalie Goldberg delves into the art of haiku, unraveling a poetic journey that finds profound simplicity in the briefest moments of life.

Standout Moment:

One of the most memorable moments is when Natalie discusses what made Basho’s pond haiku famous. It wasn’t just about the pond or the frog, but the sound of the leap. This simplicity broke tradition, capturing a purely Japanese and original moment.

Writing Flair:

Natalie’s contemplative style invites readers to ponder and reflect deeply on the nuances of haiku.

Emotional Palette:

The book evokes feelings of tranquility, introspection, retrospection, and nuanced understanding.

Deeper Layers:

As I read, I sensed the book unraveling the secrets of the Japanese language, showing how haiku, in its simplest form, serves as the foundation of modern Japanese culture.

Quirks and Quibbles:

A humorous and somewhat awkward moment occurs when Natalie, eager for dessert at a Japanese restaurant, finds the kitchen closed. Undeterred, she insists on speaking to the manager, ultimately getting her way. I couldn’t help but feel a twinge of embarrassment for Mitsu San in that situation!

Lingering Thoughts:

One line that lingers in my thoughts is: “English draws from the inside out, Japanese from the outside in…” This insight helped me grasp the essence of the Japanese perspective, the rhythm of their writing, and the pure essence of haiku as an art uniquely Japanese.

Recommendation:

This book is perfect for poetry lovers, writers, Japanese language learners, and Japan enthusiasts.

Final Take:

Reading this book felt like being a quiet observer in Natalie’s journey, learning and experiencing alongside her. It was as if we were on a shared path, discovering the beauty and depth of haiku together.

Below are some of my favorite quotes from the book.