Japanese Haikus. Four Masters: Bashô, Buson, Issa and Shiki
Translation: Kristin Addis
Abstract
This work is a compilation of translations into Basque of 38 haikus written by four of the great creators of Japanese haikus: Bashô, Buson, Issa and Shiki. The translations are preceded by a brief presentation of this poetic form, including a discussion of its history, development, relevance and principle characteristics, both structural and semantic. Also included are brief biographical sketches of the four chosen authors, who are certainly the most prominent writers of haikus. We also discuss some of the basic problems involved in translating this unusual poetic form and explain some of the decisions we have made. Each translation is accompanied by the original text, its transcription and a brief commentary.
