[header] How to write a tanka poem [title] Focus on a scene in nature. [step] Tanka poems are similar to haikus in that their subject matter is usually about nature and the natural world. Think of a scene in nature that you find beautiful, stunning, or powerful. 
Pick an animal or plant in nature that you find inspiring. [substeps] To get inspiration for the poem, you can also go for a walk outside in a natural area like a park or a garden.