A thought with teeth - By Namrah Akram

Written By: Namrah Akram

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Namrah Akram's poem "A thought with teeth" is a captivating entry in the Poetry category of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar. This evocative piece delves into the intangible nature of fear and the unnerving presence it can manifest in our lives. Akram's work captures a haunting theme that resonates with readers, taking them on a journey of introspection and suspense.

About the Work

"A thought with teeth" explores the psychological tension between the known and the unknown. Through vivid imagery and a gripping narrative style, the poem evokes an atmosphere of unease, where fear is both intangible and omnipresent. Akram masterfully uses metaphoric language to convey the haunting sensation of being followed by an unseen force, creating a profound commentary on the nature of fear and perception.

A thought with teeth

Original Submission by Namrah Akram

A thought with teeth

Something follows me without footsteps, without weight- a presence stitched to the back of my neck, breathing where breath shouldn’t exist.

I can’t name it. Sometimes it feels like eyes, sometimes a hand hovering inches from touch, sometimes just a shape my mind refuses to finish drawing.

It watches me like it knows my ending, like its patient, like time is on its side. When I turn around, the room pretends nothing happened. That’s when the walls get closer without moving. My thoughts start pacing- scratching at the inside of my skull asking questions I don’t answer because I am scared of what it my respond with.

I keep walking. The fear sticks to me like static, like a scream trapped behind my teeth. There is nothing there- and yet my pulse argues otherwise, convinced something is waiting for me to finally believe it.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar showcases the talents of writers worldwide, offering a platform for diverse voices in poetry and creative writing. Participants submit their work across various categories, contributing to a vibrant tapestry of contemporary literature. This competition continues to celebrate creativity and expression on a global scale.

We extend our gratitude to Namrah Akram for her evocative submission, "A thought with teeth," to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her work enriches the literary landscape with its insightful exploration of fear and perception. Thank you, Namrah, for sharing your poetic voice 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.