words from wordle 1,686
Below are the worku, but before reading, consider how we use verbs.
Consider this haiku:
steal a CHAIR to groove
ELBOW in, BONGO humming
JUMBO jam ready
The poem is already doing a lot of work — movement, sound, bodies in space. But the ending word “ready” tells us status instead of experience. It closes the door too neatly.
Now watch what happens when we change only the final verb:
Version 1 – JUMBO jam crowds in
The feeling tightens. “Crowds” introduces bodies and pressure. “In” completes the squeeze. The moment hasn’t peaked yet — it’s still building.
Version 2 – JUMBO jam sizzles
The pressure releases into sensation. Heat and sound take over. We’re no longer waiting — we’re inside the moment.
In haiku, the final verb decides:
- whether tension builds or releases
- whether the poem arrives or lingers
- whether we feel pressure, heat, or calm
You don’t make a poem stronger by adding words. You make it stronger by choosing the right verb at the end. A good test: If you remove the last line’s verb and the poem still feels complete, the verb is too easy. Let the final verb do the work the poem has been preparing us for.
Diana Marie 4/6
Prepare and READY
Only the TOUGH and PIOUS
Reap JUMBO rewards
auntie jj 5/6
FREED boy WAITS trial
“you’re a sick GHOUL, BUCKO”
judge doles JUMBO time
Starr 4/6
IRATE winds CHOMP through
Shelter by a quiet MOUND
JUMBO clouds drift by
Mark 5/6
Hot peppers CREAK, hiss
The SOUND to FLOUT flavor fizz
GUMBO JUMBO fun
Mick 4/6
steal a CHAIR to groove
ELBOW in, BONGO humming
JUMBO jam sizzles