Tanka

Shoal birds turn sudden
alone, yet in unison,
as we stand watching.
Conjoined, yet still separate,
each parted by our own thoughts.

By Mike Everley

For there is nothing
of daffodil smiles nor bloom,
absence of snowdrops,
iris reticulata,
winter aconites; a son

By Wendy Webb

Tanka by David Edwards

First, there is the world.
Then, the world with hint of fog.
Then, the world and fog.
Then, the fog with hint of world.
Lastly, there is only fog.

Glory to Ukraine:
this first anniversary
of pain, blood and loss.
Actor, President, Hero,
what happens next? The world waits…

future planning scheme
in low-calorie housing
homeless find shelter
but only sugar-free meals
wicked witches protest it

Proud tranced the swan sits
On a dome of broken reeds
Not secretive she
Her mate patrols upriver
Neat weapon-wings ready furled

Dripping from brass hooks
While we towel dry our hair
Two mackintoshes
Wet footprints on the lino
Lead to the flowered teapot

Time slowly passes
Distance is immeasurable
I await your call
Trembling I fear the unknown
Darkness falls all is silent

By Jack Spear

Guy on the bonfire
overhead fireworks explode
sparkler spitting stars
as I try to write my name
to the scent of gunpowder

one night of the year
autumnal mists draw apart
opening the way
lost souls meandering home
drawn by love and memories

By DJ Tyrer

In the black puddle
I see seven Pleiades
Stark and separate
My sandal touches water
Disturbed now the stars tremble