# Leon Tefft > Author, Writer & Poet ## Posts - [White Owl](https://leontefft.com/white-owl/): I’m proud to have this Masaoka Shiki-inspired shasei tanka published in the December 2025 second issue of The Diutay Review: moon glowthrough airy pineson silver snowa white owl glidessoundlessly The Diutay Review is a minimalist-design publication dedicated to short poetry, edited by Lucas Pesso Feniman and based in São Paulo, Brazil. I’m deeply grateful to have been selected as one of only ten poets featured in this issue. Please click here to read The Diutay Review. - [Falling Leaves](https://leontefft.com/falling-leaves/): With very few tanka-centered journals out there, I’m honored to have this tanka published in the November 2025 issue of Eucalypt, an Australian journal devoted to tanka. My thanks to Editor Julie Thorndyke for the honor. autumn leavesfalling one by onesearching forfamiliar namesin the obituaries The first two lines portray a natural scene of seasonal decay, then pivot to the lower verse lines to an emotional revelation of observing a cumulative erosion of a lifetime’s circle of family, friends and acquaintances, each name another leaf detached from our tree of life. This tanka is both personal and introspective. As I […] - [Patchwork Sky](https://leontefft.com/patchwork-sky/): My thanks to Katherine E Winnick for her work putting together the wonderful Shadow Pond Journal and including my haiku in Issue VI: through bare branchesgeese threadinga patchwork sky Click here to read all of Shadow Pond Journal Issue VI. - [Frogpond](https://leontefft.com/frogpond/): I’m honored to have a haiku and a senryu published in the Autumn 2025 volume of the Haiku Society of America’s Frogpond: daylilyjust a dreamafter all ancestry searchthat photo of momwith a strange man - [Looks Like You've Seen a Ghost](https://leontefft.com/seen-a-ghost/): Looks Like You’ve Seen a Ghost “Are you there?” *no answer* Why should I be surprised? I’m peering in from the edge without knowing how far I’ll have to go. The path before me leads through a legion of oaks, vanishing out of sight. No choice but to proceed. Beyond the first turn, I navigate a maze twisting in every direction. The way is cluttered but doesn’t hinder my progress. It feels natural. Now, surrounded by oaks, I sense the light dimming as cooler air touches my face. After a while, I take a short rest. “Are you there?” *no […] - [Sunday Sermon](https://leontefft.com/sunday-sermon/): I’m thrilled to have this haiku published in the Autumn 2025 edition of The Cicada’s Cry: Sunday sermonthe blackbirdshave much to say My thanks to editor Joan Reinbold for the honor of being selected for the second time to appear in The Cicada’s Cry. She publishes only twelve haiku per edition, so I consider it a particular distinction to be included among my peers. Please click this link to read more of The Cicada’s Cry. To learn more, order a copy of the micro-zine or check submission guidelines, please visit the main website for The Cicada’s Cry. - [Pearls](https://leontefft.com/pearls/): My thanks to Editors Astrid Andreescu and Kristen Lundquist for publishing my haiku in the Autumn/Winter 2025 edition of Autumn Moon Haiku Journal: evergreen boughher darling pearls wornone last time Click this link for more Autumn Moon Haiku Journal. - [Making a List and Checking It Twice](https://leontefft.com/christmas-list/): cold mooncrossing names offthe 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 […] - [Pansori Clown and the Ferryman](https://leontefft.com/pansori-clown/): I’ve learned a great deal from Alan Summers, and I’m always proud to be included in his entertaining and informative Pan Haiku Review. Here are two of my haiku published in the Autumn/Winter 2025 Edition. pansori clownstirring my green tea After learning about pansori and how the performances are often “stirring,” I thought of the shift to green tea I might enjoy with a performance. Green is the most common leaf tea in Korea. This is my first duostich (two-line haiku), seemingly the most appropriate form for this particular haiku. Alan followed up on this haiku with his own note […] - [LEAF - Journal of The Daily Haiku](https://leontefft.com/leaf-eight/): My thanks to Ravi Kiran and Amanda White for including these two haiku and one senryu in Issue Eight of LEAF – Journal of The Daily Haiku, published November 2025. whippoorwill songthe sunset bruisinga purple sky gathering thoughtstwilight becomesmoonlight speed datehe learns all abouther psychiatrist LEAF is available to read or download for free in both single-page and two-page spread formats: Single page PDF Two-page spread PDF - [Fire Lilies](https://leontefft.com/fire-lilies/): My thanks to Steliana Cristina Voicu for including my haiku in the “Spicy-ku” themed Issue 14 of her Enchanted Garden Haiku Journal, published in November 2025: fire liliesa taste of cinnamonon her lips This haiku centers on the contrast between two visceral sensualities. The fire lily, with its flamboyant sweep of colorful petals edged in gold, offers an external, visual scorch of passion. Its counterpoint is the intimate, internal taste of cinnamon on lips—a spice that tingles, warms and lingers. The lily’s petals mirror the curve of a compelling smile, transforming the flower’s visual heat into the slow, edible fire […] - [Ginkgo Gold](https://leontefft.com/ginkgo-gold/): I’m absolutely honored to have a haiku featured in Gingko Gold, the Haiku Society of America Members’ Anthology 2025. I’m proud to be included among so many respected voices in the haiku community. This haiku was originally published in Issue #23 of tsuri-dōrō: reachingfor the skystar jasmine - [Winter Scarecrow](https://leontefft.com/winter-scarecrow/): I’m overjoyed with my third appearance in the venerable tsuri-dōrō journal of haiku and senryu with this haiku published in the November/December 2025 Issue #30: wary jackdawthe scarecrow's gazefrozen in snow - [Gallows Pole](https://leontefft.com/gallows-pole/): I’m honored to be chosen for October 30, 2025’s daily haiku on Haikuniverse. gallows polenever any faultof its own - [Twisting River](https://leontefft.com/twisting-river/): I’m pleased to have a tanka chosen to be included in The Tanka Society of America’s Fall/Winter 2025 edition of Ribbons: the rivertwisting through rocksflows downstreamI shape myself to acceptthe things I can't change - [Chrysanthemum 35](https://leontefft.com/chrysanthemum-35/): I’m honored to have these two haiku chosen by Editor Beate Conrad for publication in October 2025’s Issue 35 of Chrysanthemum. black moonthe rook and its shadowbecome one A new moon so black the distinction between reality and illusion dissolves in the darkness. It can symbolize connection, impermanence, or the absence of light or definition, leading to a deeper sense of oneness. winter graveyardthe icy windis forgiven The juxtaposition worked into these seven words points to the common interpretation of an icy wind often being described as unforgiving, yet is forgiven in light of the graveyard setting where even more […] - [Three Cherita](https://leontefft.com/three-cherita/): I was excited to hear that Editor John Zheng announced a call for submissions to Haiku Page for a special issue featuring tanka and cherita. With so few publications showcasing cherita, I was eager to contribute. My heartfelt thanks to John for selecting three of my cherita for Issue 11, published at the end of September 2025. I’m honored to be among the 27 poets included in this issue. fragrance ofa withered roseeven in deathsomethingbeautifulsurvives Beauty and essence can outlast physical decay. The withered rose, though dead, retains its fragrance, symbolizing how intangible qualities—love, memory or impact—endure beyond life’s end. […] - [Baobab Grove](https://leontefft.com/baobab-grove/): baobab groveholding upa crooked sky I’m delighted to have this haiku selected for publication in September 2025’s Issue 18 of the Africa Haiku Network’s The Mamba Journal by Guest Editor Scott Mason. As The Mamba requires Africa-themed submissions, I explored various facets of African nature and culture to write a selection of haiku to submit for this issue. This process transformed my writing exercise into a deeply enriching learning experience. You can read The Mamba free at this link. - [Akitsu Quarterly](https://leontefft.com/akitsu-quarterly-2/): I’m deeply honored to have four haiku selected for the Fall/Winter 2025 issue of Akitsu Quarterly, a remarkable publication edited by Robin White, the accomplished founder of Wild Graces Botanical Sanctuary and Hermitage in Deerfield, New Hampshire. Robin presents Akitsu Quarterly as a beautifully crafted chapbook, to which I happily subscribe. While not available online, it can be purchased through her website. lulled into summerthen the pine conedrops Last October, after a spell of cool weather, it warmed up again and began to feel very much like summer again. Lounging on my patio wearing shorts and a t-shirt, soaking in […] - [Sea Shells](https://leontefft.com/sea-shells/): My heartfelt thanks to Editor Alison Williams for selecting my contemporary tanka, which blends natural imagery with philosophical reflections on transience and inevitability, for the second issue of her exceptional journal, Quail Eggs. sea shellson the beach...in timeall things come to findtheir resting place I’d also like to express my gratitude to Alison for creating and publishing Quail Eggs to begin with since there are so few publications dedicated solely to tanka. Her journal is one I will regularly read and plan to contribute to again in the future. - [Lothlorien Poetry Journal](https://leontefft.com/lothlorien/): Because I enjoy the variety of wonderful poetry regularly featured in Lothlorien Poetry Journal, I was eager to submit a selection of my writing for consideration: three haiku, one tanka and one haibun. Much to my delight, all five pieces were graciously accepted by Editor Strider Marcus Jones and published on September 5, 2025. Please enjoy these five poems accompanied by commentary for each haiku and tanka. The haibun, as always, I leave open to your own interpretation. silver moonthe sky's burden easingwith each raindrop While this haiku can be an obvious metaphor for tears shed from a release of […] - [Chaos Theory](https://leontefft.com/chaos-theory/): In the previous Issue #4 of The Pan Haiku Review, Editor Alan Summers put out the submission call for his second all-haibun issue, specifying: “I want to read haibun and tanka-bun that excites and intrigues. That works with tension: Tension can be included via storytelling twists.” With that, I submitted “Chaos Theory,” a playful haibun laced with double entendres, spicy metaphors and a risqué twist. I’m delighted it was accepted by Alan and published in Issue #5 of The Pan Haiku Review. Chaos Theory My physics teacher, Miss Bellum, has the best chalkboard cursive I’ve ever seen. She holds chalk […] - [Traces of Rain](https://leontefft.com/traces-of-rain/): brieflythe umbrella rainingin the foyer This haiku captures an “in-the-moment” experience, portraying the act of stepping out of a storm and folding a dripping wet umbrella, leaving traces of rain where it otherwise wouldn’t reach—a moment many can relate to. If this haiku evokes a visceral memory, it has served its purpose. My thanks to Jeff Hoagland and the editors of The Heron’s Nest for including my haiku in their September 2025 issue. - [Origami Crane](https://leontefft.com/origami-crane/): I’m delighted to have my haiku published in the September/October 2025 Issue #29 of the esteemed tsuri-dōrō journal of haiku and senryu: the origami cranebleeding frommy paper cut Many years ago, I sliced my finger while folding a paper airplane, leaving a trace of blood on its wing. The result was merely a paper airplane with a smear of blood. However, the same mark on a paper crane evokes a deeper image of an injured bird tinged with a sense of melancholy. This mirrors the essence of haiku, where the sum of its parts transcends the literal, guiding readers to […] - [Exhale](https://leontefft.com/exhale/): we begin to coalescefrom moonlit shadowsa cool breeze bearsa touch of heatI inhaleyour exhale My thanks to Ai Li for including this piece in The Cherita: The Stone, published September 2025. This cherita was inspired by a very favorite poem of mine, one by Pablo Neruda titled Sonnet XVII: Sonnet XVIII don't love you as if you were a rose of salt, topaz,or arrow of carnations that propagate fire:I love you as one loves certain obscure things,secretly, between the shadow and the soul.I love you as the plant that doesn't bloom but carriesthe light of those flowers, hidden, within itself,and […] - [The Wise Owl](https://leontefft.com/wise-owl/): I always find great pleasure in reading magazines that showcase various forms of poetry, and even more so when I have the opportunity to contribute. My sincere thanks to Dr. Rachna Singh and her team at The Wise Owl for publishing three of my haiku in The Daily Verse for the August theme: “A Sky Full of Promises.” silent windI speak insteadto the stars coruscant starsone koan appearingafter another weary of livingin darknessmorning glory Interested in a daily dose of poetry? Check out The Daily Verse. - [Another Sunrise](https://leontefft.com/another-sunrise/): a promise keptof another sunrisethe sound of a birdI no longer tryto name As I progress through life’s stages, I often find myself reflecting on moments I once overlooked or viewed through a different lens. A simple sunrise, for instance, gains significance when I contemplate how many more I have left to enjoy. This tanka was inspired by such a moment. One morning, as I sipped my coffee, surrounded by peaceful calm, I listened to birds singing in the forest behind my home. Many of them I recognized by their familiar calls, though they remained hidden in the trees. Among […] - [Kokako 43](https://leontefft.com/kokako-43/): Based in New Zealand, Editor-in-Chief Graham Bates and his team consistently put out one of the finest journal’s of haiku, tanka, haiga and haibun. I’m honored to have three haiku published in Kokako Issue 43, September 2025. ant caravanI once carried dreamswith such urgency I’ve often watched endless streams of industrious ants on nature shows, marveling at their purposeful, orderly work. My haiku contrasts this image with the pursuit of personal goals, both noble and essential. autumn windlearning from the leaveswhen to let go I relish the idea of how diversely this haiku may resonate with each reader. Releasing pain, […] - [Grenada](https://leontefft.com/grenada/): Inspiration When You Least Expect It In May, my wife, Hollie, and I traveled to Grenada for a vacation. I had hoped to write haiku inspired by the vibrant, exotic setting, but found myself struggling to focus. Hollie, a lover of tropical islands, surprised me. I expected her to spend her days lounging by the pool or beach, but instead, she handed me her iPhone to share something extraordinary. What followed was a conversation that left me in awe: Me: This is a haiku. Hollie: I guess so. Me: Did you just write this haiku? Hollie: Yeah. (smiling) Me: Have […] - [Steady Flame](https://leontefft.com/steady-flame/): steady flamethe kettle refusingto whistle I’m delighted to have this haiku published in Presence, Britain’s leading haiku journal. My gratitude to co-editors James Roderick Burns, Ken Cockburn and Becky Dwyer for the honor of including my poem in the July 2025 issue. https://haikupresence.org - [LEAF - Journal of The Daily Haiku](https://leontefft.com/leaf-journal/): I’m excited to debut in LEAF – Journal of The Daily Haiku with these three haiku selected for Issue Seven, published August 2025. Heartfelt thanks to Editor Ravi Kiran, Founder of The Daily Haiku Amanda White and everyone involved for creating such a remarkable publication brimming with exceptional poetry. afterglowa black rose becomesthe night Afterglow, the lingering radiance in the sky after sunset, and a black rose merging with the night. A reminder that beauty and goodness endure, even when unseen or shining in the darkest places. chrysalis phasenever tryingnever failing A chrysalis encases a caterpillar during its metamorphosis into […] - [The Cherita: Sound Asleep](https://leontefft.com/the-cherita-sound-asleep/): after darkmoonflowersintoxicate the nightsleep comes quicklyknowing she waitsin my dreams you sketched a mapdirections to yourwaiting heartall those lines I erasedto lose myselfin you I’m delighted to have these two poems published in Ai Li’s 101st cherita publication, sound asleep. I’m deeply honored that Ai selected both for The Cherita Lighthouse Award, recognizing timeless cherita that light up the sky. - [Dreadful Taste](https://leontefft.com/dreadful-taste/): I’m twistedly amused to have my dreadful senryu published in Horror Senryu Journal. the dreadful tasteof black rubbernod if you agree - [Peak Sun](https://leontefft.com/peak-sun/): peak sunthe gecko lazing undera drink parasol My thanks to Steliana Cristina Voicu for including my haiku in Issue 12 of the Enchanted Garden Haiku Journal for the “objects in the sky” theme. I enjoyed seeing the Romanian translation accompanying it as well. Click here to read the issue. - [Knowing You Love the Rain](https://leontefft.com/love-the-rain/): knowing youlove the rainevery cloudnow shedsnew meaning Published in the Tanka Society of America’s 2024 Members’ Anthology. - [Failed Haiku](https://leontefft.com/failed-haiku/): shio ramenthe girl with chopstickswatches my fork spin mood ringsomehow always redwhen I'm blue I’m proud to have both of these senryu published in Failed Haiku Issue #110 – July 2025, particularly since Editor Kelly Moyer remarked that this is perhaps the most brilliant issue of Failed Haiku to date. Click on the link to read it for free! - [The Cherita: Hide and Seek](https://leontefft.com/the-cherita-hide-and-seek/): white lilyno flowerso daintyshould bearheavyburdens Enjoying cherita as I do, I’m always happy to be included in Ai Li’s publications. This cherita was chosen for Issue #100 – hide and seek. - [Humana Obscura](https://leontefft.com/humana-obscura/): I admire humana obscura for its artful blend of diverse poetry and compelling photography, presented in a sleek, stylish package. I’m thrilled to have two haiku and one tanka featured in the Summer 2025 issue. My heartfelt thanks to Editor Brianna Bruce for this tremendous honor. elysian skythe lark sings herangelic song marigold sunsetholding the promiseof tomorrow not knowingwhere they come fromor where they gofor a brief timefireflies A special mention to Kimber DeVaney for her stunning photograph Chiron Square Mars featured on the front cover of this issue. humana obscura is available in both digital and print editions. Explore […] - [Moonlight Profile](https://leontefft.com/moonlight-profile/): moonlight profilea side of heronly I see I’m especially honored to have this haiku published in Katherine Winnick’s love-themed edition of Shadow Pond Journal – Issue V, alongside some exceptional contemporary haiku from my esteemed peers. As Katherine mentions in her preface, this issue deliberately contains fewer poems than usual in order to preserve the clarity and distinctiveness of each haiku poet. I’m thrilled to be among the poets chosen to be included. Click here to view the free online issue of Shadow Pond Journal. - [Moonflower](https://leontefft.com/moonflower/): cerulean skyas if the day's beautywere not enougha moonflower shinesin the fragrant night I’m pleased to have this tanka included in the Tanka Society of America’s Spring/Summer 2025 issue of Ribbons. My thanks to Editor Susan Weaver for the honor. - [Cattails](https://leontefft.com/cattails/): I couldn’t be more pleased to have three submissions accepted by the editors of cattails for their biannual Spring/April 2025 issue—one haiku, one tanka and one haibun. smoke-filled skythe dove's wingtrembles a lifetime learninghow to love...in old agean empty forestwhere the tree falls Indigo Flame Yesterday was unusually cool, but the heat wave has resumed. Through the wrought iron fence, a duskywing flutters past a rose whose pink petals briefly waver. Tracing dizzying zigzags across the yard, it suddenly comes to rest on the back of my hand. We study each other here in the calm shade, then a gentle flicker of wings, and […] - [Haiku Evolution](https://leontefft.com/haiku-evolution-2/): Available Now I’m excited to share that my second book, Haiku Evolution, is now available! Like my first book, Haiku Traditions, it features 300 haiku, senryu, tanka and haibun poems with explanations of each form. This time, I’ve written them in a modern free-form style, moving away from the traditional 5-7-5 syllable structure. The book explores why I prefer this style, with detailed insights included. Writing and producing Haiku Evolution was a joy, and I’m thrilled with the final result. Despite the addition of a few more pages, I’ve lowered the price to $11.99 for the paperback and $6.99 for the ebook to make […] - [Catfish Blues](https://leontefft.com/catfish-blues/): catfish blueshaving to dye herroots black It’s always a treat when Heterodox Haiku puts out a publication, and even more so when I can be a part of it. Thank you to Editor Jerome Berglund for choosing my “Catfish Blues” haiga for publication in Heterodox Haiku’s Etymology: Hybrids in Japanese Inspired Micropoetics. Heterodox Haiku is published by Nun Prophet Press, which sells its publications at cost with no royalties generated to make the arts and literature as accessible as possible to readers. It’s sold on Amazon for just $6.33 for this reason, but is also available to read for free online. I […] - [Haiku Evolution](https://leontefft.com/haiku-evolution/): Available May 1, 2025 My second book, Haiku Evolution, will be released on May 1, 2025. Following the lead of Haiku Traditions, this book contains 300 haiku, senryu, tanka and haibun poems. However, it takes a unique approach, evolving from the 5-7-5 haiku tradition to its contemporary form. It explains how the free-form style emerged and why this adaptation makes sense. I have a lot of fun with these books, from writing the content to designing and producing them. I put a great deal of effort into ensuring good value for the cost, which is why I’ve even reduced the print and […] - [Carolina Wren](https://leontefft.com/carolina-wren/): dawn preludethe Carolina wrenserenades home One of these wrens was singing right outside of my screened porch as I was enjoying my cappuccino this morning. An incredibly loud bird for its small size! - [Crunching Snow](https://leontefft.com/crunching-snow/): beforethe doorbellcrunching snow I’m elated for my second appearance in The Heron’s Nest with this haiku published in the March 2025 issue. My thanks to Jeff Hoagland and all for the honor. - [Two Coins in the Wishing Well](https://leontefft.com/two-coins-in-the-wishing-well/): two coinshead over tailsin the wishing wellacross time and spacethe secrets they share I’m pleased to be published in the Tanka Society of America’s Laurels Issue #3, the tanka theme being “Choice.” My thanks to Editor Margaret Tau for the honor of being included. - [Yuletide Spirit](https://leontefft.com/yuletide-spirit/): yuletide spiritthe iciclemelting daybreakthe tomcat returnsone life shy Perhaps because I’m of part Welsh descent, I’m particularly thrilled to have two haiku published in the venerable Wales Haiku Journal Winter 24/25 issue. Much gratitude to editors Joe and Luci for the honor. - [Sheltered Fawn](https://leontefft.com/sheltered-fawn/): on dry needlesunder the white pinea sheltered fawnbarely seenin snowfall An example of shasei tanka—a fleeting moment observation with its five lines flowing together as one sentence. - [Monopoly](https://leontefft.com/monopoly/): Monopoly—arguing overthe made-up rules It’s always fun participating in the Asahi Shimbun Haikuist Network. Thanks to David McMurray for including me in the board game theme. - [Juice Just as Sweet](https://leontefft.com/juice-just-as-sweet/): From my earliest memories, I rarely knew my mother to be anywhere except by the television watching soap operas, Merv Griffin, and Walter Cronkite. It was a habit I picked up from her, though I’ve been learning new things lately. Since she had them take the TV out of her room, I always find her waiting for me in the garden area wearing the most charming smile. I wheel her casually around as she marvels at everything from the changing maples to fresh air and fragrant breezes. I never knew that was the alyssum I smelled until she mentioned it […] - [It Was the Owl That Shrieked](https://leontefft.com/owl-that-shrieked/): She could barely see beyond the crust of corrosion distorting her peripheral vision. Lost in thought, she always said there were nuances between tarnish and patina, and hardly worth discussing. She could shine whenever she chose to. setting the tonedrawing every linecrossing her path Someone will polish her silver soul, a warrior with well-oiled armor in summer glory. No rust would mar the skin. A sun bears down on her parasol as she watches the horizon, and then another autumn arrives, bringing dust in its amber wake. one cloudin the clarion skyscent of petrichor The irony of oxidation is that […] - [Elf on a Shelf](https://leontefft.com/elf-on-a-shelf/): elf on a shelfthe secretshe must know First published in Hauling the Tide: Haiku Society of America Members’ Anthology 2024. As a member of the Haiku Society of America, I’m delighted this haiku was selected for inclusion in their annual anthology. With just two weeks left until Christmas, be sure to be on your best behavior around your own little elves. - [Ladybug](https://leontefft.com/ladybug/): ladybugon the bonsaias if size matters I’m very pleased to have this haiku published in Shadow Pond Journal. My thanks to Editor Katherine E. Winnick for the honor. - [Early Riser](https://leontefft.com/early-riser/): early riserthe sweetgum reachingfor the sun On this cloudy morning, all the trees behind my home were shaded except for one ray of sunlight hitting this striking fiery branch of a sweetgum tree. - [The Cherita: On My Way](https://leontefft.com/the-cherita-on-my-way/): lightning eludesin diurnalhazeonly thunderbetraysthe storm I am grateful to Ai Li for including my poem in her latest cherita publication—on my way. - [Communion of Consciousness](https://leontefft.com/communion-of-consciousness/): May Sarton’s Journal of a Solitude I’m reading May Sarton’s Journal of a Solitude, a book worth any introverted writer or poet’s time despite her irascible nature. This quote fascinated me: This solitude into which we have come, and which gives us such a strong sense of inner responsibility, and at the same time of the impossibility of being self-sufficient, is experienced as a solitude only because it is at the same time an appeal toward solitudes like our own with whom we feel the need to be in communion; for it is only through this communion that each consciousness will […] - [Space for Echoes](https://leontefft.com/space-for-echoes/): so full of emptyonly space remainsfor echoes...whisper your voicedeafen my darkness Since I’m a Tanka Society of America member, I’m particularly pleased to have this tanka included in the Fall/Winter 2024 issue of Ribbons. Special thanks to editor Susan Weaver. - [Good Vibes](https://leontefft.com/good-vibes/): still feeling good vibesthe beggar'saloha shirt I’m happy to have this haiku in today’s Asahi Shimbun. My thanks to editor David McMurray for the honor. - [The Cherita: The Sound](https://leontefft.com/the-cherita-the-sound/): surrendering heavenbeneathan alpine moonin savage icelingers yourdesert fire gulag archipelagoeven now instillnessmoonlightcannotescape I’m thrilled and honored to have these two cherita published in Ai Li’s cherita book #91, the sound. Both of these poems have been chosen by Ai as recipients of Cherita Lighthouse Awards. I used the first cherita as the basis for writing an extended 15-line freeform poem several months ago titled Himalayan Moon. The second cherita was inspired after reading Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn’s harrowing Gulag Archipelago. - [Akitsu Quarterly](https://leontefft.com/akitsu-quarterly/): creeping fogonly the lighthouseknows fallen owlfeeling the weightof silent trees roaring fireplacethe dog pulls her bedcloser I’m elated to have these three haiku published in the gorgeous Fall/Winter 2024 issue of Akitsu Quarterly. My thanks to Editor Robin White for the tremendous honor. - [Star Jasmine](https://leontefft.com/star-jasmine/): reachingfor the skystar jasmine Thank you to editor Tony Pupello for publishing my star jasmine haiku in the September/October 2024 issue of tsuri-dōrō. - [The Cherita: Sitting Quietly](https://leontefft.com/the-cherita-sitting-quietly/): counting grainsof sandslowlydropby intravenousdrop your fluid gracelaps my shoreof desireif only toswim in youdrown in you I’m thrilled to have these two cherita included in Ai Li’s latest publication, sitting quietly. And I am especially humbled that she chose both of these poems for Cherita Lighthouse Awards in recognition of timeless cherita. My sincerest thanks to Ai Li for this esteemed honor. - [Kokako](https://leontefft.com/kokako/): an animal's crythe darkness of nightturns blacker I’m pleased to have this haiku published in Kokako Issue #41. My thanks to Graham Bates and his team for the honor of being included. A free download of Issue #41 is available here. - [Haiku Traditions](https://leontefft.com/haikutraditions/): Available Now I am thrilled to announce that today, I am officially a published author. My first book, Haiku Traditions, is now available in paperback and ebook as of August 1. This has been a significant goal on my bucket list for over forty years, returning to my high school creative writing class days. My goal has been to write the book and produce it. I wanted to familiarize myself with all facets—writing, editing, formatting, design, copyrighting, licensing, incorporating, marketing and distribution. I’ve invested some money and many months of work, but I enjoyed every step of the journey and added much to […] - [The Cherita: Transient](https://leontefft.com/the-cherita-transient/): clouds darkenwith languidthunderin rainfalla daffodilshines I’m pleased to be included in Ai Li’s latest Cherita publication, transient, with this daffodil cherita. - [Tiger Lily](https://leontefft.com/tiger-lily/): tiger lilyby the pondtwice the beauty - [Haiku Traditions](https://leontefft.com/haiku-traditions/): Available August 1, 2024 I am thrilled to announce that I am just one week away from becoming a published author. My first book, Haiku Traditions, goes on sale in paperback and ebook versions on August 1. This has been a significant goal on my bucket list for over forty years, returning to my high school creative writing class days.  My goal has been to both write the book and produce it. I wanted to familiarize myself with every aspect—writing, editing, formatting, design, copyrighting, licensing, incorporating, marketing and distribution. I’ve invested some money and many months of work, but I enjoyed […] - [Dad's Hawaiian Shirt](https://leontefft.com/dads-hawaiian-shirt/): home from the islandsdad's Hawaiian shirt onthe memory bear I’m delighted to appear in the Japanese newspaper, The Asahi Shimbun’s Asahi Haikuist Network, today with this aloha shirt-themed haiku. My thanks to David McMurray for the honor. - [Cherry Blossoms](https://leontefft.com/cherry-blossoms/): blushingin moonlightcherry blossoms I am thrilled to have my cherry blossom haiku published in The Cicada’s Cry Summer 2024 Edition. My thanks to editor Joanne Reinbold for the honor. - [Failed Haiku 100th Issue](https://leontefft.com/failed-haiku-100th-issue/): lemon juicewith a twist of irony—jumbo shrimp debate teammoment of silenceelevator ride early signof coming rainforgotten umbrella the Lord givethand the Lord taketh awaychurch bingo I submitted senryu to Failed Haiku in the hopes that one might be selected for their 100th issue, and as it turns out, they published four. Thank you Mike Rehling and Bryan Rickert for the tremendous honor. A PDF download of the issue is available here. - [Wardrobe Malfunction](https://leontefft.com/wardrobe-malfunction/): wardrobe attirewondering which suitI'll be buried in Thanks to Thomas Tilton for featuring my senryu in Horror Senryu Journal. - [Folk Ku Journal](https://leontefft.com/folk-ku-3/): roadside crocusin the rear viewwith winter poke and probethe abyssof your silencestill no signof us I’m pleased to have a haiku and a tanka included in the 3rd issue of 民句 Folk Ku Journal. Thank you, Jodie Hawthorne and all at King River Press for the honor. A free download of the issue is available here. - [The Cherita: Empty Beach](https://leontefft.com/the-cherita-empty-beach/): splashing homeumbrella wetshoes soakedescaping the rainpouring into your armssensing a storm lingers I’m excited to have two cherita published in The Cherita’s Empty Beach edition. The cherita included here is the first I ever wrote. My thanks to Ai Li for her dedication, enthusiasm and guidance. - [Lotus Blossom](https://leontefft.com/lotus-blossom/): not sinkingnot swimminglotus blossom I’m very pleased to have this haiku published in the June 2024 issue of The Heron’s Nest. My thanks to Jeff Hoagland and the editors. - [Petals of Haiku: An Anthology](https://leontefft.com/petals-of-haiku-an-anthology/): calm woodlands cradledelights of muted snowfallsexquisite silence frosty maple leavescrackle in whispering windssun-kissed harmonies poignant red rosesremembrance of all that's lostbefore the next bloom schemes of naive youthcome undone through jaded yearstime hastens anguish I have a special place in my heart for Gabriela Marie Milton. When I returned to writing haiku, she was the first to encourage me to consider submitting my haiku for publication. That had always been a long-term goal I planned to pursue, but I felt like I needed more time to feel ready. I decided to take a shot, with the result being the first […] - [Himalayan Moon](https://leontefft.com/himalayan-moon/): I climbed bitter iceclawing at heavensfar beyond fingertipsDistant dunesfade into memoryVicious squallssting my frownAnd here, I surrenderMy cold feet danglein latent darknessbeneath the radianceof a Himalayan moonIn a familiar blizzard,chilled to the marrow,lingers your desert heat - [Heterodox Haiku: Cutting Letters](https://leontefft.com/heterodox-haiku-cutting-letters/): English Interpretations of the 20 Traditional Japanese Kireji I’m thrilled to have been chosen to participate in Heterodox Haiku Journal’s Cutting Letters: English Interpretations of the 20 Traditional Japanese Kireji book project, which included two of my haiku. haymakerslanded in the yardknock out roses idling through forestspast a calm lakereflections appear The book was released on May 9, 2024, and is available on Amazon at cost. It can also be viewed online at not cost here. Editor Jerome Berglund did an exceptional job researching, compiling and producing this book. For those interested in an entertaining and informative look at kireji, […] - [Valley Fog](https://leontefft.com/valley-fog/): valley fogmorning birdsongcolors the gray This is my photo taken this morning with a haiku written to capture the peaceful moment of birds unseen in the early morning fog singing. The most meaningful haiku I write comes from experiencing fleeting moments such as this one. - [Tornado Warning](https://leontefft.com/tornado-warning/): tornado warningthat look inyour eyes Published May 3, 2024 I’m happy to have been included in Haiku In Action’s “Tornadoes” haiku of the week selections. Thank you, Susan Burch, for the honor. - [Our Morning Tea](https://leontefft.com/morning-tea/): I’m awakened again by the quietest silence tapping my shoulder. Gliding into the kitchen dumbstruck as a marionette on a darkened stage, bright lights spotting my rendered smile, I’m uncertain what moves me even as I’m transported. Poured cream swirls in black tea from a spoon clinking on thin china cups. The same thin cups you always said tea tastes best in. An empty cup rests on a saucer across the table from me. I brewed more tea than I should have again. routines without youare hollow madnessmy strings are broken Observing our home, I notice things I now realize […] - [I've Got Fleas!](https://leontefft.com/ive-got-fleas/): I’m absolutely thrilled to have two of my haiku published today by Five Fleas Itchy Poetry. My most sincere thanks to Roberta Beach Jacobson for including me on the flea-bitten fun! spiral staircasethe vertigo oftwisted truths frosted windowsclearly visiblememory loss Published on Five Fleas Itchy Poetry – April 22, 2024. If you’re itching to find out what Five Fleas is all about: https://fivefleas.blogspot.com - [Tumbleweeds](https://leontefft.com/tumbleweeds/): tumbleweeds rovingthrough cities that never wereviews never enjoyed Published in Cold Moon Journal – April 17, 2024 - [Air Supremacy](https://leontefft.com/air-supremacy/): air supremacy—an aerial fandangoof fierce cardinals Published in Cold Moon Journal – April 17, 2024 I usually like to include an image with my poems. I don’t think anything could better represent my haiku than this stunning photo by Flickr photographer Mike / mjb8216. ## Pages - [Newsletter](https://leontefft.com/newsletter/) - [MP-Re-Engagement Page](https://leontefft.com/re-en-page/): Thank you for letting me know! I appreciate your continued interest in my updates. Expect to hear from me again soon! Leon Tefft - [MP-Subscribe Success](https://leontefft.com/subscribe-success/): You’ve subscribed to Leon Tefft’s newsletter. Welcome! Here’s what you can expect from me. Every Tuesday, you’ll receive a curated email featuring up to three of my latest articles from the previous week. If I publish only one or two articles, the newsletter will reflect that. If no new content is published, no email will be sent that week. This ensures your inbox stays clutter-free with only my freshest content. Occasionally, I may send a special message if I have important or time-sensitive updates to share. Thank you for subscribing! I look forward to connecting with you soon. Leon Tefft - [MP-Unsubscribe Success](https://leontefft.com/unsubscribe-success/): You’ve successfully unsubscribed. Sorry to see you go! If you change your mind and want to resubscribe to my newsletter, please go to my home page and use the sign up form to join again. Thank you! - [MP-Unsubscribe Confirmation](https://leontefft.com/unsubscribe-confirmation/): Are you sure you want to unsubscribe? It will feel a bit lonelier here, and Teddy’s feelings will be hurt, but if you’ve made your decision, I’m grateful for the time you spent here. [mailpoet_page] - [MP-Manage Your Subscription](https://leontefft.com/manage-your-subscription/): Manage Your Subscription To change your email address, change the Status from Subscribed to Unsubscribed, uncheck the Newsletter list, then click Save. This will unsubscribe your current email. To resubscribe, simply go to my home page and use the sign up form to rejoin my newsletter with your new email address. To unsubscribe entirely, change your Status from Subscribed to Unsubscribed, uncheck the Newsletter list, then click Save. - [Contact](https://leontefft.com/contact/) - [Privacy Policy](https://leontefft.com/privacy-policy/): Who we are My website address is: https://leontefft.com Comments Data submitted by visitors in the comments form is collected, and also the visitor’s IP address and browser user agent string to help spam detection. An anonymized string created from your email address (also called a hash) may be provided to the Gravatar service to see if you are using it. The Gravatar service privacy policy is available here: https://automattic.com/privacy/. After approval of your comment, your profile picture is visible to the public in the context of your comment. Media If you upload images to the website, you should avoid uploading […] - [Publications](https://leontefft.com/publications/): Publications Leon’s work has appeared in the following publications Akitsu QuarterlyAsahi ShimbunAutumn Moon Haiku JournalCattailsThe CheritaChrysanthemumThe Cicada's CryCold Moon JournalThe Diutay ReviewDrifting Sands HaibunEnchanted Garden Haiku JournalEucalyptFailed HaikuFive Fleas Itchy PoetryFolk Ku JournalFrogpondHaiku In ActionHaiku PageHaikuniverseThe Heron's NestHeterodox Haiku JournalHorror Senryu JournalHumana ObscuraKokakoLaurelsLeaf Journal of The Daily HaikuLothlorien Poetry JournalThe MambaThe Pan Haiku ReviewPresenceQuail EggsRibbonsScarlet Dragonfly JournalShadow Pond JournalTanka HangoutTsuri-DōrōWales Haiku JournalThe Wise Owl Anthologies & Collections The Cherita | A TreeThe Cherita | Empty BeachThe Cherita | Hide and SeekThe Cherita | On My WayThe Cherita | Sitting QuietlyThe Cherita | The SoundThe Cherita | Sound AsleepThe Cherita | […] - [Books](https://leontefft.com/books/): Haiku Evolution contains 300 contemporary haiku, senryu, tanka and haibun poems, including brief introductions explaining the form and function of each unique style. Poems include: 220 haiku split into five categories: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter and Modern 40 senryu—the comedy, tragedy and satire of human nature 30 tanka—five-line poetry in the modern free-form style 10 haibun—a intriguing combination of prose and haiku poetry Dive into a collection of modern poetry where every word counts, each line a brushstroke of elegance and simplicity. Poems that capture fleeting moments of beauty to entertain and enlighten. Enjoy a journey of discovery, one breath at […] - [About Me](https://leontefft.com/about/): Born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, Leon’s love of poetry originated with the first haiku he wrote as a teenager. This spurred decades of my creative writing through poetry and short story fiction. His poetry has appeared in numerous online and print publications. He is a member of the Haiku Society of America and the Tanka Society of America. Leon draws inspiration for his creativity from a wide range of unique experiences throughout his life. His resume includes author, writer, artist, painter, actor, police officer, celebrity bodyguard, trader and business owner. He is an avid reader interested in history, philosophy […] [comment]: # (Generated by Hostinger Tools Plugin)