Zadar Sunsets (a Tanka)

This Tanka began with a small moment of irony. While sheltering from the cold and waiting for the weather to clear, I spotted a piece of street art near the café — the words “Sunsets in Zadar” painted across a brick wall. I noticed straight away that it carried a perfect five‑syllable rhythm, an ideal opening line for a Haiku or Tanka. From that simple spark, the poem grew into a quiet reflection spoken from the sun itself, reaching across horizons with its global glow.

Zadar Sunsets (a Tanka)


Sunsets in Zadar
I’m nowhere near Croatia
But here within view
Above your hill’s horizon
My global glow finds your land

A final touch of light to end the moment — a sunset song to accompany the sun’s own words, drifting across horizons just as the poem does.

Ivor Steven ©  August 2026