Final answer:
Haiku poets predominantly wrote short poetic essays in a three-line format focusing on nature or seasons. In contrast, the Tanka, another form of Japanese poetry with five lines, also focused on nature or emotions. Both forms were integral to the Japanese aristocracy's cultural practices.
Step-by-step explanation:
Most Haiku poets focused on writing very brief essays, typically encapsulated within a single short poem. The traditional Haiku form is known for its succinct expression and is comprised of three lines, unrhymed and unmetered, with a syllable count of 5-7-5. The subject matter of Haiku frequently relates to nature or the seasons, offering insights through its compact structure and poignant imagery.
By contrast, the Tanka, which is another Japanese poetic form, consists of five unrhymed, non-metrical lines with the syllable count of 5-7-5-7-7. This form typically deals with topics of nature or expresses strong emotions, with certain lines forming complete sentences.
Both Haiku and Tanka are instrumental in expressing artistic sentiments, especially among the Japanese aristocracy, serving as a reflection of their keen involvement and expertise in the visual and performing arts. In cultural practices across Japan, poetry like Haiku and Tanka played a significant role in ceremonial occasions and were part of the literary traditions that elite societies participated in.