Am I Pretty? - By ALIYA ANSARI

Written By: ALIYA ANSARI

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In her evocative poem "Am I Pretty?", ALIYA ANSARI offers a deeply personal exploration of self-worth and societal beauty standards. As a participant in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, she delves into the introspective struggle of reconciling personal value with external perceptions. This reflective piece invites readers to ponder the pressures and expectations that shape our self-image and identity.

About the Work

"Am I Pretty?" captures the internal conflict experienced when societal norms dictate one's self-worth. With a tone of vulnerability and introspection, ALIYA ANSARI navigates the pervasive question of beauty, challenging the reader to consider the impact of external validation. Through vivid imagery and raw emotion, the poem conveys a powerful message about the struggle for self-acceptance in a world obsessed with appearances.

Am I pretty?

Original Submission by ALIYA ANSARI

Am I Pretty?

A question always stuck in my head:

Am I pretty?

Am I pretty that you would

turn your head to look at

once you walk away?

I hate this world for making me question.

I hate my family for not making me

understand it.

I hate that after all that I am,

I am stuck at, Am I pretty?

How can I not, though?

After all, that is what the world deems important.

I'm not the kind people turn

their heads to.

Or want to get to know her.

Maybe I'm just the pretty that

you get to know for a few days and like,

but longer than that, you wanna mold me into something different.

I hate that I say

I love myself,

but I still have to ask this question:

Am I pretty?

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform celebrating the creative expressions of artists worldwide. This competition showcases diverse voices and stories, offering participants the opportunity to share their unique perspectives through poetry, short stories, and essays. It stands as a testament to the power of words in connecting and inspiring individuals across the globe.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to ALIYA ANSARI for sharing her poignant poem "Am I Pretty?" with us. Her participation in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 enriches the dialogue on self-worth and beauty standards. We appreciate her contribution and look forward to witnessing her continued journey in 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.