Monoku

One line, more than one movement

A monoku is a haiku written in one line. Without visible line breaks, pacing may come from syntax, spacing, sound, or a phrase that can be read in more than one direction.

The form rewards compression, but it need not be abrupt. A successful monoku can feel like one continuous glimpse that changes while it is being read.

Listen for pivots

Try finding a word or phrase that belongs to both sides of the poem. You can also let an image turn through rhythm alone. Read the line slowly, then quickly, and notice where its possibilities open.