Translation guide
In Japanese, 'old poem' most commonly refers to classical poetry forms, especially waka (tanka) and haiku. The best translation depends on context: whether you mean a specific ancient poem, a classical genre, or simply a poem from the past.
Referring to a traditional Japanese poem from the classical period, typically a waka (31-syllable poem) or tanka.
Literally 'old poem,' this is the standard term for classical waka poems, especially those in imperial anthologies like the Kokinshū.
この古歌は古今和歌集に収められています。
This old poem is included in the Kokin Wakashū.
Means 'Japanese poem' and often implies classical waka. Use when the 'old' aspect is clear from context.
The Hyakunin Isshu is a collection of one hundred old poems.
Explicitly 'old waka.' Use when you need to emphasize the age.
This old poem was composed in the Heian period.
Referring to a haiku from the Edo period or earlier, especially by masters like Bashō.
Referring to a classical Chinese poem composed by Japanese poets in the Chinese style.
Referring to a poem that is simply old, without specifying genre.
古歌 (koka) specifically means classical waka, while 古い詩 (furui shi) is a general term for any old poem, including modern free verse. Use 古歌 for traditional Japanese poems from the Heian period or earlier.
The direct translation '古いポエム' (furui poemu) sounds unnatural. Use 詩 (shi) for poetry in general, or specific terms like 和歌 (waka) or 俳句 (haiku) when the genre is known.
Old haiku always include a seasonal word.
Reading old Chinese poems is difficult.
I attended a recital of old poems.