Haiku are an ancient form of Japanese poetry that have recently become popular in English. By analysing the articles the Financial Times publishes every day with a computer programme, we have unearthed some accidental but powerful haiku.
The poems follow the form and style of a traditional Japanese haiku — typically a three-line observation about a fleeting moment involving nature with 17 syllables arranged in a 5-7-5 pattern.
A surprising number of these poetic forms are buried inside the hundreds of articles the FT publishes every day, from stories as diverse as the columns of Martin Wolf to the impeachment of Dilma Rousseff and news and reaction to the UK’s vote to leave the EU.
Over the coming weeks we will share these haiku on FT.com and social media. We will also be encouraging readers to share their feedback.
Do not scapegoat energy groups, Centrica boss warns PM. By Andrew Ward
inequality
had brought capitalism
into disrepute
Richard Serra, Gagosian, London — review. By Edwin Heathcote
deep in our minds
drawing us in a way
we can’t quite explain
Russia’s ‘monotowns’ face imminent collapse. By Septimus Knox
deaths unemployment
and poor quality of life
will remain ignored
Nano-machine inventors win Nobel chemistry prize. By Clive Cookson
spinning cranks and wheels
unaware that they would lead
to electric trains
May’s message: ‘A change is going to come’. By George Parker
The prime minister
had to convince delegates
she was serious
A trip through the murky world of online reviews. By Emma Jacobs
attempted muggings
whereby customers threaten
to leave harsh reviews
Toyota launches $400 Kirobo Mini robot companion in Japan. By Kana Inagaki
mostly limited
to robot enthusiasts
and elderly care
For more FT haiku go to www.ft.com/hidden-haiku
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