WASHINGTON (Kyodo) For many years now, Americans have taken some of what Japan has to offer and integrated these things into their everyday lives. From cars to sushi to Pokemon, many Japanese influences can be seen in the West.
Often, things that have found their way into America from other parts of the world undergo a sort of transformation under the influence of a new cultural surrounding.
Haiku is one example of this phenomenon. The short and simple poem traditionally known for its five-seven-five syllable form and reference to the seasons is increasingly gaining popularity outside of Japan.