A Conversation with Death - By Navindi Ariyananda

Written By: Navindi Ariyananda

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In a compelling entry for the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, Navindi Ariyananda presents "A Conversation with Death." This poignant poem, falling under the poetry category, takes readers on an introspective journey, confronting the often terrifying concept of death with a surprisingly gentle tone. Ariyananda's work invites readers to reconsider their perceptions and fears, suggesting a more nuanced understanding of life's inevitable conclusion.

About the Work

"A Conversation with Death" by Navindi Ariyananda delves into the nuanced relationship between humans and the concept of death. With a gentle and reflective tone, the poem portrays death as a weary yet kind guide rather than a fearsome entity. Through rich imagery and careful dialogue, Ariyananda explores themes of fear, acceptance, and the unspoken regrets that haunt the living, ultimately suggesting peace in embracing the end as part of the natural cycle.

A Conversation with Death

Original Submission by Navindi Ariyananda

I spoke with death once, a short conversation

He came to me with his eyes closed

And mouth drawn to a line

I was scared but

He neither looked at me nor talked to me

He extended his hand slowly, as if to guide me

He was gentle and I was surprised

I asked him why he was quiet and why he looked so weary

For death looked like a simple man

A man whose shoulders were quite heavy

His voice was soft and his words were careful

As if to not scare the birds and not make his presence known

Death said

I was turned away by every family I went to

I was stripped to the core

I was punished, blamed and cursed

And I was welcomed no more

I am merely a guide

To help poor souls find their path

Humans fear me more than anything

But why fear death at all?

You only fear dying

When you haven’t lived yet

Or you have regrets

and your heart is filled with unspoken words

And you believe all that time you had

Was not enough time at all

I took deaths’ hand and caressed it gently

For death was to be embraced and not turned away harshly

I hope one day we realize that death is not a retribution

But a kindness to some

And a necessary punishment to others

In the end

Death only helps make space for others to come

He is calm and quite like the summer breeze

but he is not a monster

for he talked with me

I was no longer scared

And my heart was at peace

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform celebrating diverse voices in poetry and creative writing from around the world. This competition aims to foster creativity, offering participants an opportunity to share their unique perspectives and contribute to a vibrant literary community.

We extend our gratitude to Navindi Ariyananda for sharing "A Conversation with Death" in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your thoughtful exploration of such a profound theme enriches our understanding and appreciation of life and death. Thank you for your contribution to this global celebration of creative expression.

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.