ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Kireji

Kireji is a very special and fun thing in a type of poetry called Haiku. Now, Haiku is a special kind of poem that is only three lines long, and it comes from Japan. In Haiku, we write about nature, like trees, flowers, animals, and things like that.

But what makes Haiku so interesting is the Kireji. Kireji is a Japanese word that means "cutting word," and it's like a tiny little knife that cuts the poem in two. It's like a pause or a break that separates the first two lines of the poem from the last one.

Now, the Kireji is like a special secret code that helps the reader or listener know when to pause and think about the poem. It's like when you're reading a story, and you come across a comma or period, you know to take a breath or pause.

But Kireji is even more special than that because it's not just a regular pause, it's also a moment to reflect on the words and the imagery of the poem. It's like a chance to let the poem sink in and understand the deeper meaning behind it.

So, when you read a Haiku, and you come across a Kireji, remember that it's like a little break or a pause that gives you time to think about what you've just read. And who knows, maybe one day you'll write your very own Haiku with a Kireji of your own!