Making a List and Checking It Twice

cold moon
crossing names off
the Christmas list

This biting senryu was featured in the December 5th “cold moon” themed column for Japan’s Asahi Shimbun Haikuist Network.

“Cold moon” is the kigo, or seasonal word, establishing the setting when the full moon of December is commonly known as the Cold Moon. The act of crossing names off a Christmas list is normally done once a gift is purchased or sent, signifying completion of the task.

The twist of this senryu lies in the tension between the action and the setting. Crossing names off should be satisfying (The shopping is done! The gift is ready!), but the cold moon gives it a negative spin. It suggests the names are being crossed off not because a gift is bought, but perhaps the relationship has cooled, the person is no longer in one’s life, or the task itself feels forced or joyless. The senryu captures the irony of profound social or emotional distance during a festive season meant for connection and warmth.

But hey, Merry Christmas!