The rain falls gently
I can smell the life of earth
Right now there’s no fear
My spirit has been set free
and my life is filled with glee
-- Ta’lor, age 12, Utah

On the darkened stage
We begin our practiced dance
Rhythmic and graceful
Our hearts racing to the beat
The spirits dance aside us
-- Sabrina, age 16, Maine

The sun shines today
The clouds have gone away now
Kids come out to play
Skipping, shouting once again
Kids are happy once again
-- Hannah, age 11, Illinois

I wish I could be
The object dear to your heart
The gold sun shower
Dazzling starlight rainbow
That is always in your eyes
-- Kate, age 14, Massachusetts

My rainy day world
Gloomy, sad, displeasing life
You made sun come here
I'll love you forever more
Thanks for brightening my world
-- Natacia, age 13, New York

In English, not all Tanka poems follow the same syllable count. Check out these free form Tanka poems!

The one who cares so
Must shine with brilliance.
For if he doesn't,
I shall not sing a
Song unto the sun.
-- Christie, age 11, Washington

My spirit and mind are calm
I like the ocean breeze, the candy apple trees
and the fresh green basil leaves.
-- Brittany, age 13, Florida

My friends are the best people that anyone could ever meet
They always have a smile on their face
If you’re feeling down my friends are there to cheer you up
I love my friends and if you knew them you'd love them too.
-- Josie, age 13, MA

Michael
My heart craves in desire
My eyes are like a wild fire
As my soul goes through and through
I still stand here crying, Waiting for you!