Poetry Kaleidoscope: Guide to Poetry

Shichigon-zekku

Shichigon-zekku (七言絶句) is the Japanese term for a poetry verse form (often of Chinese origin) consisting of four phrases each seven Chinese characters (kanji - 漢字) in length.

Shichigon-zekku are the most common form of classical Chinese poems (kanshi - 漢詩), and the standard form of shigin (Japanese chanted poetry).

Composition

In composing Shichigon-zekku, the character of the phrases (zekku) is important. The rule is as follows:

• First phrase (kiku - 起句): Depiction of the scene

• Second phrase (shoku - 承句): Add further illustration and detail to the kiku

• Third phrase (tenku - 転句): By changing the scene of action, reveal the true essence of the poem

• Fourth phrase (kekku - 結句): In assimilating the tenku draw together and complete the poem

The Japanese terms mean literally: bringing into being; understanding; changing and drawing together.

Example

The example below illustrates a poem in Shichigon-zekku form:

Author: Ishikawa Jozan (石川丈山), (1583～1672).

See also

• Japanese poetry

External links

• Background to Mount Fuji poem (Japanese)
• Explanation of Shichigon-zekku form and history (Japanese)

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