One thing we like to do here at Cafe Haiku, is take a fresh and unique look at themes in the world of haiku. This series is a look at poignant, touching poetry – the jisei or death haiku of the Japanese tradition. This series will continue for a while as our editors take a new look at an old subject. And not only Japanese. We will look at death poems from the rest of the world too. Join us on this emotional but ultimately life affirming journey.

In this series, haiku poet and Japanese teacher Geethanjali Rajan gives us a unique view of the last poems of the four masters, written specially for Cafe Haiku. This is the last of the four masters but will carry one Jisei post every Tuesday. There is lots more to come in the Jisei series so happy reading.

The tragic end: Masaoka Shiki