Chen-ou Liu lives in Ajax, Ontario, Canada. He is the author of five books, including Following the Moon to the Maple Land (First Prize, 2011 Haiku Pix Chapbook Contest) and A Life in Transition and Translation (Honorable Mention, 2014 Turtle Light Press Biennial Haiku Chapbook Competition), His tanka and haiku have been honored with many awards.
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WOW–this is a magnificent senryu, Chen Ou. The crispness of the specific imagery coupled with the shot-like sound of all those ending ttt's activates the poem and brings it to life. But more importantly, the astute juxtaposition of the minaret–the Mosque tower from which a muezzin calls worshipers to prayer–with the reality of ongoing war creates a poignant tug between spirit and flesh. This, too, is what is is to be human; and you've captured that sublimity. This poem will remain with me for a long time–thank you for the impact you make with your work.
Fine work, Chen-ou!
Best,
Theresa C.
Splendid, Chen-ou!
WOW–this is a magnificent senryu, Chen Ou. The crispness of the specific imagery coupled with the shot-like sound of all those ending ttt's activates the poem and brings it to life. But more importantly, the astute juxtaposition of the minaret–the Mosque tower from which a muezzin calls worshipers to prayer–with the reality of ongoing war creates a poignant tug between spirit and flesh. This, too, is what is is to be human; and you've captured that sublimity. This poem will remain with me for a long time–thank you for the impact you make with your work.
busy bazaar
from a minaret
a bird prays for scraps