A Mirror of Nature - By Payton Lord

Written By: Payton Lord

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, Payton Lord presents "A Mirror of Nature," a compelling poem that draws readers into the intricate relationship between the human body and the natural world. As part of the Poetry category, Lord's work stands as a testament to the beauty found in both human and natural forms. This piece invites contemplation on the connection between the two, illustrating how elements of nature are mirrored within us.

About the Work

"A Mirror of Nature" offers a vivid exploration of the human body as a reflection of the natural world. The poem weaves together imagery of stretch marks as lightning, freckles as stars, and veins as leaf patterns, creating a tapestry of natural parallels. With a reverent tone, it celebrates the inherent beauty and complexity of the human form, suggesting a profound interconnectedness with the universe.

A Mirror of Nature

Original Submission by Payton Lord

If stretch marks on skin look like lightning

Falling from the sky to strike the inner thigh

Spreading, reaching across the skin

A simple transfer of energy, from cloud to land

If freckles are like stars

Scattered across the night,

Each one a sun, a distant light

Constellations in the sky reflected on the arms

If stomachs are the acid

That burns what it touches

Made to filter and restore, chemicals that slip from its clutches

If the wrinkles match cracks in the rocks

From years of floods and rain for miles

Faced with the course of nature

Droughts, rain, tears, smiles

If veins under skin follow those of a leaf

The miracle of life, a show of relief

Lines spreading from held hands, tightly gripped

A promise of safety, peace and understanding

If hip dips match the valleys of the south

The highest peaks

And cliffs of eroded rocks

Following the path of bones, so strong

Then maybe the body is a mirror of nature

Maybe the body is the universe, experiencing itself through brand-new eyes

Maybe we all beautiful beyond our own eyes

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform celebrating the power of words and creativity. Open to writers worldwide, it seeks to showcase diverse voices and exceptional talent through various categories, including poetry, short stories, and essays. This competition fosters a global community of writers, encouraging the sharing of unique perspectives and artistic expressions.

We extend our gratitude to Payton Lord for sharing "A Mirror of Nature" in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This thought-provoking poem enriches our understanding of the natural beauty mirrored in the human body. Thank you, Payton, for your inspiring contribution.

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.