A Moment of Solitude

On a leafless branch

A crow's settling

autumn nightfall

               - Basho

Basho's haiku investigates the value of a singular moment. In Japanese, the word sabi describes an alloy of beauty and sadness. Sabishi expresses loneliness and solitude. 

An essence of impermanence pervades his observation.

Nurturing the vitality of the moment and its evanescence, consider a solitary experience. 

What does alone feel like?  Notice if sensations of impermanence percolate.  

Define words like loneliness, freedom, or solitude without using them. 

Develop metaphor and sensory imagery.

Invite the reader into your moment of solitude.