The following poem by 14 century Japanese poet, Arakida Moritake (1473-1549) is probably a very familiar haiku. Of course there are probably better translations, but this was the first haiku I ever read. I was about in fourth grade. It impressed me enough to copy it in my journal. I did however only know the last name which I misspelled as Miritake. I never was able to find another of his poems until the internet suggested the correct search. This and another rhyming poem about fall inspired me to start writing poetry. I poured my nine years of experience into writing a sappy poem about falling leaves. I don't remember more than ... changing leaves, come falling down, red, golden, orange, and brown. Anyway, I do remember that poem being put up by itself on the bulletin board. I was overly proud, and declared myself a poet from then on.
a falling petal
drops upward back to the branch
it's a butterfly
Moritake
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