A Tramp's Paradise - By Alan Atkinson

Written By: ALAN ATKINSON

Category: POETRY

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Alan Atkinson presents us with "A Tramp's Paradise," a contemplative piece entered in the Poetry category of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This evocative poem invites readers into a world where solitude and remembrance intermingle, painting a vivid picture of the human condition. Atkinson's work speaks to the heart, offering a powerful exploration of life’s quiet struggles and fleeting joys.

About the Work

"A Tramp's Paradise" is rich with themes of solitude, reflection, and the search for meaning amidst hardship. Atkinson's poetic style is marked by its vivid imagery and emotional depth, capturing the often overlooked struggles of everyday life. The poem evokes a sense of longing and nostalgia, drawing readers into the narrator's world with its poignant exploration of humanity's selflessness and the memories that haunt the soul.

A TRAMP'S PARADISE

Original Submission by ALAN ATKINSON

A TRAMP’S PARADISE

A ray of light pierces through a hole of my rundown shack. I awake to the sound of the honking and bustle on the street, The calmness, tranquility and placidity all lost and gone.

It’s another day not in paradise, but of drudgery and sweat.

I step on to the sidewalk and feel a burning sensation,

Of my severed wounds through the soles of my mangled boots.

The pain I solely bear is more than the torment and twinge; Of loneliness and solitude I have walked with heretofore.

I plod and flounder along hoping to get a meal, a dime or two. A gaze or a smile from any one of the passersby seems a façade.

An empty resonant of, “ Sir can you help me?” is conclusive.

Then I envisage that the selflessness of humanity is lost!

After a sprauchle, down the road I remain in a state of oblivion.

A sudden burst of thunder and the splitting of raindrops make me hurry: I gaze up to look at the stained raindrops falling off my grungy hat,

The familiarity of my youth comes flashing to my mind.

Happiness knows no bounds as I reminisce the tender moments - My family, childhood, friends the love and laughter of the past, Now remains as an alienation and a long last estrangement.

Water trickles down my face, mixed with tears that fall without grace.

Later the lambent light had almost faded in the gloaming.

The cold evening, entreating twinkling fireflies in the crepuscule, As I hurried back to my inviolable sanctum - my shack.

A scrimpy loaf of bread and some water I imbibe, Completes my famishment with my meagre meal for the day.

My only companion is my loneliness, and I smile fronting hollowness.

At long last, I slump into eternal slumber with languor; To awake in Paradise beholding the brilliance of my Saviour,

With a battered soul that remains immortal and in perpetuation!

Alan Atkinson

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform celebrating the diverse voices of writers worldwide. It provides a unique opportunity for poets and writers to showcase their literary talents on an international stage, fostering a community of creativity and expression.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Alan Atkinson for sharing "A Tramp's Paradise" with us. His participation in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 enriches the tapestry of voices contributing to this esteemed event. We appreciate his poetic contribution and are honored to feature his work.

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.