A Golden Mark - By Upul Guruge
Written By: upul guruge
Category: Poetry
Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026
The evocative poem "A Golden Mark" by Upul Guruge is a poignant exploration of transient moments and deep-seated emotions. Submitted to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, this piece delves into the fleeting nature of human connections and the lingering impressions they leave. Set against the backdrop of a rain-drenched street in Bangkok, the poem invites readers to reflect on impermanence and the subtle interplay of chance encounters.
About the Work
In "A Golden Mark," Upul Guruge crafts a vivid tableau through imagery and emotion. The poem's mood is reflective and introspective, capturing a brief yet profound interaction on a Bangkok street. The literary style is rich with sensory details, evoking a surge of emotions and awakening dormant memories. The theme of impermanence is woven throughout, as the narrative explores the impact of a simple touch and the resurgence of past longings.
A Golden Mark
Original Submission by upul guruge
On a Drenched Street in Bangkok…
In the city of Bangkok -
Along a street , leaden and drenched in rain,
Leaving silent footprints in my wake
I walk…
With eyes cast low to the earth,
As I held out the bowl resting in my palm,
The soft, pale fingertips
Of a girl unknown
Brushed against my calloused hand - just for a moment…
That stray touch
Flowed like a surge of lightning through every vein,
Waking the "primitive tribesman"
Who lay hidden in a dark corner of my heart…
Like the alms she offered,
The piercing warmth of those touching fingertips
Breathed life once more
Into memories turned to stone…
Though I Closed my eyes in haste,
Struggling to murmur,
"Sabbe Sankhara Aniccati…" (All conditioned things are impermanent)
Deep within the rhythm of my own heartbeat,
I felt the faint, lingering trace of craving….
Aching, with a sudden, sharp pain !
About the Competition
The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, organized by Hashtag Kalakar, is a prestigious platform celebrating diverse voices in poetry and creative writing. It offers participants an opportunity to share their unique perspectives and artistic expressions with a global audience, fostering a vibrant community of writers and poets worldwide.
Thank you, Upul Guruge, for your evocative submission, "A Golden Mark," to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your work beautifully captures the ephemeral nature of human experiences, inviting readers into a world of introspection and emotion. We appreciate your contribution and look forward to more of your compelling poetry.
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.
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