2023 Haiku Contest
Olokun
Cordées et nouées
Perles noires en liberté
Au fond de la mer
Comments from the judges:
Referring to Olokun, the African deity associated with the sea in Yoruba mythology, the title sets the stage for the description of a human tragedy: that of countless sick slaves thrown to sea by slave traders in order to collect insurance. The powerful image of slaves shackled and strung together like pearls in a necklace creates a poignant contrast between the horror of the scene and the freedom these "black pearls" might have found in death, at the bottom of the ocean. OLOKUN is a beautifully crafted haiku that combines imagery, symbolism, and cultural references to recount one of the darkest episodes in history.
Les Dauphins
Acrobates des mers
Une innocence enfantine
Mystérieux sourire
Comments from the judges:
This poem celebrates dolphins' agility, innocence, and the captivating enigma they embody. The first line conjures images of dolphins gracefully leaping and diving through the water, showcasing their playful nature. The second line, "Une innocence enfantine" (Childlike innocence), adds a touch of child-like charm and purity to the scene. "Mystérieux sourire" (Mysterious smile) highlights the intriguing quality of dolphins' seemingly smiling faces. What hides behind?
Lumière à la Mer
Une vague longue et haute,
La lumière derrière…
Cent poissons d’argent!
Comments from the judges:
This haiku captures the interplay of water, light and life. The title immediately evokes a sense of wonder and anticipation, drawing readers into the beauty of the ocean. The first two lines create a visual image of a wave rising high and stretching out, emphasizing the ocean's magnitude and presence, with the sun's rays casting a radiant glow on the scene. The "hundred silver fish" adds a touch of magic and abundance, as if the wave has unleashed a cascade of shimmering life.
Bal Fécond
L'océan mystérieux
Agite ses profondeurs
Et les poissons dansent
Deborah Monroy
La Fantaisie des Homards
La pince dans la pince
Dans l’obscurité totale
Ils défilent, ils s’aiment.
Zachary Christian
Baisers Salins
Côte rocheuse, fière,
Mer en furie, éclabousse,
Bretonne, je t'embrasse.
Mikaele Klopfenstein
Marguerite Le Clézio - French Instructor
Mary Roberts - French Instructor
Michèle Darrah - French Instructor