How many syllables are in the typical haiku pattern?

• A. 7-5-7
• B. 5-5-5
• C. 3-5-3
• D. 5-7-5

Answer: (D)

Haiku traditionally uses three lines with a 5-7-5 syllable pattern, totaling 17 syllables. The first line has five syllables, the second line seven, and the third line five. That’s why 5-7-5 is the best match. The other options don’t fit because they don’t follow the standard three-line rhythm: 7-5-7 starts with a longer line and reverses the traditional order, 5-5-5 keeps all lines at the same short length, and 3-5-3 is too short to convey the typical haiku arc.