Mind the Gap

FROM KOLAJ 32

Collision and Context in Haiku and Collage

In Kolaj 32, Rod T. Boyer dives into the relationship between haiku and collage. He writes, “As a practitioner and observer of collage, I have long operated under the assumption that one of its principal mechanisms is juxtaposition, the placing of two (or more) items from different contexts next to each other. In this way, the artist uses a new connection to signal a new idea or vision. At least, this has always seemed the primary modus operandi, conscious or otherwise, at the core of cut-and-paste. Recent explorations into haiku and in particular a landmark study of that genre by Richard Gilbert, The Disjunctive Dragonfly, have challenged my assumptions about how both genres operate and how, in at least one respect, these two disparate and apparently unrelated genres of creative pursuit may in fact be aligned. That alignment might ultimately lead to a better understanding about how both media derive their impact and power.”

Rod T. Boyer’s article appears in Kolaj 32. To read the full article and see the full issue, SUBSCRIBE to Kolaj Magazine or Get a Copy of the Issue.

Disjunction provides a remarkable understanding of why haiku and collage gain their provocative power in the first place.

Rod T. Boyer’s article appears in Kolaj 32. To read the full article and see the full issue, SUBSCRIBE to Kolaj Magazine or Get a Copy of the Issue.

Rod T. Boyer creates art and poetry under the moniker our thomas, exploring themes of redemption, mystery, and transformation. Like the rest of the world, he’s trying to make sense of the endless and overwhelming stream of flotsam (physical and metaphoric) that flows through his life. His work has been exhibited in New England and his haiku have recently appeared in the journals Modern Haiku, Acorn, is/let, seashores, and Failed Haiku among others. He can be found wandering the streets in Exeter, New Hampshire, USA and, online, at www.ourthomasart.com and on Instagram @our.thomas.