Poetry

Whispers of The Pacific Northwest

I am convinced that the creative simplicity of haiku is related to the creative simplicity of black and white photography. This book is my first attempt to explore this relationship using my own poetry and photography.

Whispers of the Pacific Northwest: Fifty Haiku in Monochrome is an enchanting fusion of poetry and visual artistry. Within its pages, each haiku delicately intertwines with a black and white photograph captured amidst the serene landscapes of the Pacific Northwest. As you journey through this collection, you’ll discover the profound synergy between the brevity of haiku and the timeless elegance of black and white photography.

Through minimalist verses and evocative imagery, the essence of the Pacific Northwest comes alive. Nature’s subtle nuances, from mist-laden forests to rugged coastlines, are beautifully encapsulated in these snapshots frozen in time. Each haiku serves as a window into the soul of the region, inviting readers to contemplate its serene beauty and quiet wisdom.

In this collaboration between poetry and photography, the parallels between haiku and black and white imagery become strikingly apparent. Both mediums distill complex emotions and landscapes into their purest forms, relying on simplicity and suggestion to evoke profound meaning. As you immerse yourself inWhispers of the Pacific Northwest, prepare to embark on a journey of introspection and discovery, where every haiku and photograph unveils a new layer of beauty and insight.

“We must read Ippekirō’s poems for the brilliance of his images, the humanity of his observations, and the depth of his feelings for the objects and events he records, as we read—or should read—all haiku.”

- William Higginson and Penny Harter