A Catastrophe in Every View - By Laila Raza

Written By: Laila Raza

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the poignant poem "A Catastrophe in Every View," Laila Raza delves into the themes of loss, resilience, and the impact of conflict on innocent lives. As a participant in the esteemed Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, Laila's work stands as a testament to the emotional and psychological toll of unrest. Her piece, submitted under the Poetry category, provides a haunting yet beautiful narrative that reflects the turmoil faced by children in war-torn areas.

About the Work

Laila Raza's poem artfully depicts the harsh realities of a child's experience amidst conflict. Through vivid imagery and an evocative narrative style, she portrays a world where safety and innocence are shattered. The poem's mood is somber, yet it carries a powerful message of resilience, offering a voice to the voiceless. By personifying elements like the skies and plants, Laila creates a poignant dialogue that enhances the emotional depth of her work.

A Catastrophe in Every View

Original Submission by Laila Raza

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A Catastrophe in Every View

It Vanished.

The Life

The Freedom

The Peace

The fearless children are hiding in their homes, around shattered glass and scattered stones

The fearless children are hiding in their homes, not for hide and seek but because of bombs being thrown

The once joyous babies feel the deadliness inside of their bones

The Skies:

We knew a fearless child, she always came out to play

she used to sit on the swing for hours every day

Perhaps because she felt safe, because this was her home

But now our fearless child lies scared in the unknown

Now our fearless child cannot see her precious swing, oh fearless child, don’t be afraid my darling

The Child:

I am afraid my beloved Skies, I cannot find my mother,

here I am, in the rubble, hiding beneath your colour

People roam around, none that I know

oh, my precious skies, why do these weapons fall like snow?

In the middle of these flames, where should I go?

I'm not even safe below the colours you bestow

The Plant:

Under the same colours, the air thickens around me

I stand alone, unaffected, while the world shatters completely

Strong yet useless, my stem is still

I wish I could help the people falling ill

I am a mere flower, in the middle of this destruction

I am still alive, witnessing this oppression

I am watching, fragile me, as my people die from an eruption

How dare the oppressors

How dare the corruptors

How dare the evil steal

The smile of a child

The life of the wild

The beauty they could never feel

And how do the fortunate

How do the very blessed

help turn sacred lives to sorrow

at the corruptors behest

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform that celebrates diverse voices from around the world. It aims to foster creativity and provide writers with an opportunity to share their unique perspectives. Participants across various categories, including poetry and short stories, contribute to a rich tapestry of cultural expression and literary excellence.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Laila Raza for her powerful contribution, "A Catastrophe in Every View," to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her poignant exploration of conflict's impact on childhood resonates deeply and enriches the competition's narrative. We appreciate her willingness to share such a profound and moving piece with us.

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.