Waka is a traditional form of Japanese poetry, primarily consisting of tanka, a fixed poetic form with a 31-syllable structure (5-7-5-7-7 syllables). Composed since ancient times, as seen in the Manyoshu collection, waka flourished particularly within the aristocratic society.
It expresses a diverse range of themes, including the beauty of nature, scenes of love, and the impermanence of life, all through delicate language. A defining characteristic of waka is its ability to condense emotions and scenery into a short form, leaving a lasting impression. Ki no Tsurayuki's preface to the "Kokin Wakashu" (Collection of Ancient and Modern Waka) highlights waka's power to move people's hearts. While its expressions have evolved over time, waka remains a significant and cherished element of Japanese culture.
