The poem is written in the form of a traditional haiku, meaning that it has three short lines that, in the original Japanese, conformed to the syllable pattern of 5-7-5. This piece is a great example of Bashō’s style of haiku and how emotionally interesting these short poems can be.
A jag of lightning Matsuo BashōA jag of lightning--Then, flitting toward the darkness, A night heron's scream.
Summary
‘A jag of lightning’ by Matsuo Bashō is a short poem that vividly describes a moment of intense illumination.
The poem begins with the sudden appearance of lightning, portrayed as a sharp and jagged burst of light. This visual imagery captures the reader’s attention, setting the stage for what follows. The poem reaches its climax with the description of the night heron’s scream. This auditory detail adds a layer of intensity to the scene.
Structure and Form
‘A jag of lightning’ by Matsuo Bashō adheres to the traditional form of a haiku, which consists of three lines. In its original composition in Japanese, the haiku follows a syllable pattern of 5-7-5. However, it’s important to note that when translated to English, the syllable count may vary to preserve the essence and meaning of the poem.
Literary Devices
In this poem, the poet makes use of a few different literary devices. For example:
- Imagery: occurs when the poet uses sense-triggering imagery, for example, the heron’s scream and the jag of lightning.
- Personification: can be seen when the poet imbues something non-human with human characteristics. For example, the heron screams and “flits” as a human being might.
- Allusion: Through the imagery in this poem, the reader might feel as though the poet is alluding to something more important or something darker than is explicitly referenced.
Detailed Analysis
Line One
A jag of lightning—
In the first line of the poem, the poet begins by describing a strike of lighting that appears in the sky. It’s described as a “jag,” suggesting that it is rough and powerful. It disappears as soon as it’s seen.
Beyond its visual impact, lightning carries symbolic significance. It is often associated with power, energy, and a sense of awe. In this context, the lightning serves as a catalyst, a transformative force that triggers subsequent actions and events in the poem.
It could be said to represent a moment of revelation, a sudden flash of insight or realization. It could also be an element of foreshadowing, representing something darker that’s around the corner.
Line Two
Then, flitting toward the darkness,
The second line utilizes juxtaposition, depicting the “darkness” that appears after the “jag” of lightning disappears. The phrase “toward the darkness” implies that the subject is heading in the direction opposite to the illuminating effect of the lightning.
The subject, likely the night heron from the third line, swiftly and gracefully moves away from the sudden burst of light and toward the darkness. This movement represents a natural instinct or a deliberate action to find comfort and security in familiar surroundings, away from the overwhelming brightness of lightning.
Line Three
A night heron’s scream.
In the third and final line of the poem, the poet describes the sound produced by a night heron. Herons are known for their distinctive calls, which can range from eerie screeches to deep squawks. By specifically mentioning the heron’s scream, the poem draws attention to the intensity and significance of the sound while also using personification.
The inclusion of the heron’s scream adds a layer of emotional intensity to the scene, as well. It amplifies the impact of the lightning’s illumination and the heron’s response to it. The scream becomes a symbol of both fear and mystery, further enhancing the atmosphere of the moment.
FAQs
The lightning in the haiku poem ‘A jag of lightning’ serves as a catalyst, triggering subsequent actions and events. It represents a moment of revelation, a sudden flash of insight or realization.
The theme of the poem ‘A jag of lightning’ by Matsuo Basho centers around the impermanence of life, the juxtaposition of contrasting elements, and the allure of moments that pass by quickly. The poem encourages reflection on the fleeting essence of significant encounters in the natural world.
The tone of the poem can be described as evocative, contemplative, and imbued with a sense of wonder. It captures the reader’s attention with imagery and engages them in reflecting on the interplay between light and darkness.
Matsuo Bashō is important because he is widely considered one of the greatest masters of haiku, a traditional form of Japanese poetry. His works, including ‘A jag of lightning,’ showcase his mastery of concise and evocative language, as well as his ability to capture the essence of brief moments in nature.
Similar Poetry
Readers who enjoyed this poem should also consider reading some Matsuo Bashō poems. For example:
- ‘The shallows’ – is a beautiful, traditional haiku about a crane landing in cool, shallow water and the ripples it makes.
- ‘Autumn moonlight’ – is a traditional haiku that’s beautifully written about the seasons.
- ‘In the twilight rain’ – is a beautiful 3-line haiku that juxtaposes an evening rain with a bright hibiscus flower.
