a ballad for a sailor's soul - By Elysian Gold

Written By: Elysian Gold

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Elysian Gold graces the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 with their evocative piece, "a ballad for a sailor's soul." This poetry entry delves into the tumultuous relationship between a sailor and the sea, capturing the essence of fate and the mesmerizing call of the ocean. As part of this prestigious competition, Elysian Gold's work stands alongside other creative expressions, showcasing the relentless beauty and peril of maritime life.

About the Work

"a ballad for a sailor's soul" weaves a haunting narrative with vivid imagery and an evocative melody. The poem captures the inevitability of fate with its striking depiction of a sailor’s journey, where the sea's call becomes both a siren and a requiem. The imagery of moon-soaked silk, raging storms, and jaws of stone creates a poignant atmosphere, while the lyrical style invites readers into a world where love, devotion, and doom intertwine.

a ballad for a sailor's soul

Original Submission by Elysian Gold

a ballad for a sailor's soul

elysian gold

raindrops sting like shards to my neck

the waves swell with the storm above me

and lightning falls on jaws of stone

that pierce the sky and sea

from the depths a song coiled forth

a melody wound around my will

as my fate was drawn beneath the brine

and the raging sea was still

i saw her then, in moon-soaked silk

she smiled and beckoned with the tide

i knew too late what waited there

my pale and ghostly bride

the rocky maw loomed closer still

i heard the call beneath the foam

a ballad for a sailor's soul

drifting far away from home

i gave my heart unto her hymn

to me, her devotee and acolyte

she sang until the world was hushed

and wrapped me in the night

the hull gave way with one last cry

to the waters and the pallid moon

the timbers kissed the waiting teeth

and drew me to a sailor's doom

the shore forgot the man i was

my feet forgot the sands i knew

nothing but her song remained

to break the boundless blue

the storm rolls above my grave

no voice remains to speak of me

my bones lie in jaws of stone

that pierce the sky and sea

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a celebrated event that brings together writers from around the world to share their unique voices. Fostering creativity and expression, this competition serves as a platform for both emerging and established writers to showcase their work across various genres. Participants have the opportunity to engage with a global audience, enriching the literary landscape with diverse and innovative narratives.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Elysian Gold for sharing their captivating poem, "a ballad for a sailor's soul," with us in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your contribution adds depth and emotion to the creative tapestry of the competition. We look forward to seeing more of your evocative storytelling in the future.

About Hashtag Kalakar

Hashtag Kalakar is a creative platform dedicated to providing artists, writers, singers and other creative talents with opportunities to showcase their work and reach wider audiences through competitions, features and creative initiatives.