Submissions to Haiku for Soulmates are now closed. Heartfelt thanks to each of you for sharing your beautiful haiku and your creative spirit with us. Literary Revelations is deeply grateful for your participation. In mid-March, we will send out letters of acceptance or gentle rejections. We will do our best to honor as many voices as possible. Our tentative publication date is the end of March or the beginning of April, and we can’t wait to share this collection with you.
Gabriela Marie Milton Author, founder, editor in chief
Thank you to everyone who submitted to Haiku for Soulmates. I am deeply grateful for the beautiful haiku I received.
This is the last call for submissions. The submission period closes on February 26.
Guidelines for submission:
We invite you to keep submitting to Literary Revelationsโ upcoming anthology, Haiku for Soulmates. We hope this collection will also find its place in esteemed museums, as any collection of haiku we have published.
To participate, please submit five haiku to literaryrevelations@pm.me with the email subject clearly labeled as โHaiku for Soulmates.โ Please be aware that unlabeled submissions may be misplaced and not read. The deadline for submissions is February 26. Kindly note that your five haiku will be reviewed as a set and accepted or rejected as a whole.
Thank you for your continued support and inspiration. ๐
Gabriela Marie Milton Author, founder, and Editor in Chief, Literary Revelations
Happy February from Literary Revelations. May this month bring you happiness and success. Stay safe!
Haiku for Soulmates – Front Cover Reveal
Literary Revelations is thrilled to reveal the front cover of Haiku for Soulmates. I hope you like it. Please let us know.
The art on the cover belongs to our Artist-in-Residence, the Japanese painter Hikari. Cover design: Iuliana Irimia.
In the meantime, please continue to submit. The deadline for Submission is February 25. Send 5 haiku to literaryrevelations@pm.me. Please make sure to label your submission “Haiku for Soulmates”. We will have an answer for you around March 1. If you have any questions, please let us know. One question I want to clarify: Literary Revelations accepts traditional as well as non-traditional haiku.
Hainka – Just for you – Please do not submit Hainka, but you can try your pen after submitting to Haiku for Soulmates.
Hainka is a modern poetic form created by Pravat Kumar Padhy that merges the objective, nature-focused imagery of a 5-7-5 syllable haiku with the subjective, emotional depth of a 5-7-5-7-7 tanka. It is typically structured as a 48-syllable piece (5-7-5, 5-7-5-7-7) that uses the haiku as a pivotal, bridging image for the following tanka.
Key Aspects of Hainka:
Structure: Follows a 5-7-5 (haiku) and 5-7-5-7-7 (tanka) structure, totaling 48 syllables.
Pivot/Linking: The first part (haiku) acts as a pivot, and the second part (tanka) develops the imagery, with a necessary thematic, or sometimes, lyrical link between them.
Themes: Often explores nature, emotions, love, and humor.
Origin: Created by Pravat Kumar Padhy to fuse the two Japanese forms, notes Tanka Tuesday and All Poetry.
Presentation: A small, distinct gap is recommended between the haiku and the tanka for the reader to absorb the imagery.
It is an exciting form of poetry that has taken off, and it’s discussed in various outlets, such as Writer’s Digest. On ALL POETRY, the largest platform for poetry writers, HAINKA is highly appreciated. We do not yet have non-traditional forms of hainka, as we do for haiku.
Pravat Kumar Padhy: widely published and anthologized including โContemporary Indian English Love Poetryโ. Literary work referred in Spectrum History of Indian Literature in English, Alienation in Contemporary Indian English Poetry etc. Short Poems, Haiku and Tanka appeared in number of literary journals (both print and web) in India, USA, UK, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Africa including Poetry Time, Poet, Creative Forum, Poetcrit, Kritya, World Haiku Review, LYNX, Akita International Haiku Network, Poetry Pages, The Notes From the Gean, The Four Seasons of Haiku, Poetbay, Anglo-Japanese Society (Tanka Online), Ambrosia, Sketchbook , Atlas Poetica, Kokako, Berry Blue Haiku, Simply Haiku, The Houston Literary Review and others.
In the Beginning – Poetic Prose – Poem by Gabriela Marie Milton
In the beginning, the sky was dark, swollen with braided longings. The earth lay beneath it, clothed in smiling flowers and the slow breath of gods. Petals parted like whispered confessions, damp with promises. Desire had no name.
On that day, I bent and chose one bloom. My fingers lingered,. At the first trembling touch love burst from the ground.
The earth arched upward, aching, rising to meet the weight of the sky. Roots tightened, winds sighed, and the night thickened with roses and heavy steps. Your name became the name of desire spoken by birds.
The second day of creation started.
Gods of my many worlds, I beg your forgiveness.
Featured Art: Shutterstock
A thought and some reminder
I was asked in an interview how I write “lush poetry” and “haiku”, such different poetic genres. The answer is I do not know. I just can. I leave the beauty of both genres raining over me. I became one with my writings.
Please do not forget our fabulous Artist in Residence, Hikari, and me published Haiku and Tanka: Lull, Harmony, and Power in Japanese Art.
Literary Revelations is thrilled to announce an open call for submissions for our upcoming anthology, Haiku for Soulmates. Whether you have a soulmate and wish to celebrate your connection, or you dream of finding one, we invite you to share your poetic voice. If you have a soulmate, please compose five haiku for him or her. If you do not, let your imagination shape five haiku that describe the soulmate you hope to meet.
To participate, please submit your five haiku to literaryrevelations@pm.me and clearly label your email subject as Haiku for Soulmates. Please note that unlabeled submissions may be misplaced and not read. The submission deadline is February 25. Your five haiku will be accepted or rejected as a block.
Wishing all my followers around the world a wonderful weekend! May magic, love, and peace be with you.
Poetry in English and Basque & A Quick Reminder.
Poetry in English and Basque
I am who I am, and who I am breathes in the hush between desire and devotion โ hidden in the tears that slide down the cracked face of an iconoclastโs old church, glistening like skin after rain.
My essence stirs in the murmur of the waves that caress Bilbaoโs restless shore. There, beneath the trembling light, I unfold โ a secret pulse, a body made of memory and prayers, aching to be touched by the world again.
————————
Ni naizena naiz, eta naizena arnasa hartzen du desioaren eta debozioaren arteko isilunean โ ikonoklasta baten eliza zaharraren aurpegi pitzatuaren gainetik behera irristatzen diren malkoetan ezkutatuta, euriaren ondoren larruazal bezain distiratsu.
Nire esentzia mugitzen da Bilboko itsasertze bizkorra laztantzen duten olatuen xuxurlan. Han, dardarka dabilen argiaren azpian, zabaltzen naiz โ taupada sekretu bat, oroitzapen eta otoitzaz egindako gorputz bat, munduak berriro ukitzeko gogo biziz.
Haiku and Tanka, Lull Harmony and Power in Japanese art by Hikari and Gabriela Marie Milton in now #1 Top Release in Canada
After being the #1 Top Release in the USA and still a bestseller, the #1 Amazon Bestseller in Japan, Haiku and Tanka: Lull, Harmony and Power in Japanese Art, published by Literary Revelations, is now a #1 Top Seller in Canada too. Australia, how are we doing? Thank you to everyone who bought our book.
Screenshot
A Reminder
Please do not forget to check my new #1 Amazon Bestselling book, co-authored with the fabulous Japanese painter Hikari, Haiku and Tanka: Lull, Harmony and Power in Japanese Art.
I am thrilled to let you know that Literary Revelations’ new poetry and art album Haiku and Tanka: Lull, Harmony and Power in Japanese Art is #1 Top Release on Amazon in the US and #1 Bestseller in Japan ! The book is authored by Hikari and Gabriela Marie Milton (me)
Please check the book here:
Thank you to everyone who helped us.
I realize it is not cheap, but it’s an art album, and we cannot lower the price because of production costs.
All my love
Gabriela Marie Milton
PS. I am very sorry I cannot like your posts. WordPress banned me from giving likes on the day of the launch, right after I posted.
Literary Revelations is thrilled to let you know that Haiku and Tanka: Lull, Harmony and Power in Japanese Art by Hikari and Gabriela Marie Milton is now live on Amazon!
It is a superb album of painting and poetry that highlights perspectivism in art. Haiku and Tanka: Lull, Harmony and Power in Japanese Art by Hikari and Gabriela Marie Milton brings together Japanese and Western traditions.
I want to thank, from my heart, my fabulous co-author, Japanese artist Hikari, for presenting us with 88 new paintings, unseen before. (I used 2 of them for promotion). She has worked for months on these new paintings, and I will always be grateful to her.
You are getting an exceptional album of poetry and art:
88 new paintings never seen before
Tanka for each painting written by Hikari.
My perspective on Hikari’s paintings is expressed in my haiku that accompanies every painting.
One of the most beautiful gifts for the season.
Amazon premium color paper Trim 7X10 inches Paperback – glossy cover Language: English – Japanese
Experience the enchanting collaboration between Japanese artist Hikari and American poet Gabriela Marie Milton in Haiku and Tanka: Lull, Harmony and Power in Japanese Art. This stunning poetry and art album gracefully bridges Eastern and Western sensibilities, inviting readers on a vivid journey through tradition, perspective, and creative imagination.
Hikariโs masterful paintings immerse you in the splendor of Japanese art, each brushstroke echoing the beauty of cultural heritage and the depth of historical narrative. Her tanka, deeply rooted in Japanese traditions, transports readers to landscapes and moments of spiritual introspection.
In contrast, Gabriela Marie Miltonโs evocative haiku offers a fresh, Western perspectiveโcrafted in direct response to Hikariโs artwork. Her concise yet profound verses highlight the magnificence and subtlety captured on canvas, creating a dialogue between image and word that transcends borders. This unique approach allows readers to view the same artwork through two distinct cultural lenses, underscoring the rich possibilities of artistic perspectivism.
Haiku and Tanka: Lull, Harmony and Power in Japanese Art is more than a collection; it is a celebration of cross-cultural dialogue, artistic harmony, and the transformative power of words and images. The album dazzles with miraculous colors and powerful, lyrical language, making it a must-have for poetry lovers, art enthusiasts, and anyone yearning for inspiration.
Let poetry and art fill your soulโdiscover this splendid album and embrace the fusion of East and West. You wonโt regret it.
Exciting News: Upcoming Release of โHaiku and Tanka: Lull, Harmony and Power in Japanese Artโ
A Beautiful Collaboration Arrives Just in Time for the Holidays
Dear friends and followers,
I am thrilled to announce that Literary Revelations will soon publish a very special album: โHaiku and Tanka: Lull, Harmony and Power.โ This splendid collection will be available in early Decemberโjust in time to make the perfect Christmas gift for literature and art lovers alike!
The album is a true collectorโs piece. It features exquisite paintings and tanka poetry by Hikari, expressing traditional Japanese art. Alongside her stunning artwork, youโll find my own interpretations of her paintings, illustrated in my haiku. This collaboration celebrates the harmony between visual art and poetry, offering a unique journey through both mediums.
We understand the importance of accessibility, so Literary Revelations will make every effort to keep the price as low as possible. Our goal is to ensure that as many people as possible can enjoy this remarkable album.
Stay tuned for more updates and details. Thank you all for your continued supportโI canโt wait for you to experience this extraordinary release!
With excitement, gratitude, and deep thanks for your continued support!
This video is optimized for IG. On your blog, the image may appear slightly blurred. My apologies.
My dearest followers, I wish you a beautiful and magical November.
The purpose of this post is two fold:
A poem by me
An exciting update on Haiku and Tanka: Lull, Harmony, and Power in Japanese art by Hikari and Gabriela Marie Milton.
Let’s start:
November Hues by Hikari and Gabriela Marie Milton
Somewhere in Northern Europe – My Photo
In Novemberโs breath, the law of beauty sleeps โ a hush of gold dissolving into dusk. Even the dying light adorns the world, as if farewell itself was made of grace.
An update on Haiku and Tanka: Lull, Harmony, and Power in Japanese art.
Literary Revelations is pleased to announce that Haiku and Tanka: Lull, Harmony, and Power in Japanese Art by Hikari and Gabriela Marie Milton is scheduled for publication at the beginning of December, just in time for Christmas presents. Please read more about the book and perspectivism in art HERE. If you go to that post, you will also have the possibility to write haiku or tanka on a new fabulous picture by Hikari.
This post will explain what to expect from Haiku and Tanka: Lull, Harmony, and Power in Japanese Art by Hikari and Gabriela Marie Milton, forthcoming from Literary Revelations.
I want to make it clear from the beginning: Hikariโs fabulous contribution is much bigger than mine. She painted the art and wrote the tanka. I only wrote the foreword and corresponding haiku, approaching her paintings from a different point of view.
So letโs start, because at the end I have a surprise for you.
Lull, Harmony, and Power in Japanese Art by Hikari and Gabriela Marie Milton
Trim: 8X10 inches Text: English-Japanese Amazon premium paper glossy Foreword and bios in English and Japanese Hardcover and paperback
The novelty brought by the book – Different interpretations of the same image
Hikariโs vibrant brushstrokes capture emotions and moments in time, while her tanka adds layers of meaning that resonate deeply with each piece. My haiku serves as a reflective lens, offering a different perspective on the same visual stimuli. This interplay between our approaches shows how art can be perceived through varied lenses, highlighting the beauty and meaning of our individual interpretations.
In 2003, when my publishing house, Literary Revelations, was still in its infancy, fate brought me to Hikari through a dear friend. The moment I laid eyes on her paintings; I was utterly captivated; they were a breathtaking homage to Japanese art. Each piece resonated with an ethereal beautyโpastels blending seamlessly with the elegance of fans and the grace of swords. It felt as though time stood still for those few seconds as I absorbed the profound artistry before me. Hikariโs work transcends mere aesthetics; it tells stories steeped in tradition and culture, inviting viewers and readers of tanka into a world where every brushstroke holds meaning.
This encounter ignited a spark within me โ a desire to collaborate on a project that would not only showcase Hikariโs incredible talent but also convey my unique vision of the art of haiku. Hikari is Japanese, and she spent her young years in Europe. I am a European who now lives in the US. Together, we decided to create something extraordinary that honors both her heritage and my interpretations of the art of haiku.
In the name of our friendship, HAIKU AND TANKA: LULL, HARMONY AND POWER IN JAPANESE ART was born.
[from the foreword]
When you open the book, here is what you will find [the margins will not be there]
English translation of my haiku: Naoki Kimura.
Surprise
Hikari has painted a new fabulous piece for you and written a new tanka. I just wrote a corresponding haiku. Those pieces will not be included in the book.
