an old TV - By Cosmin Petriea

Written By: Cosmin Petriea

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, Cosmin Petriea, writing under the name Lapis-Lazuli #26619c, presents "an old TV." This poem is an introspective piece that delves into themes of isolation and memory. As part of the esteemed competition, Petriea's work captures the essence of introspection, inviting readers to reflect on the interplay of past and present emotions through a poignant narrative.

About the Work

"an old TV" by Cosmin Petriea is a poetic exploration of solitude and nostalgia. The poem employs vivid imagery and a melancholic tone to evoke a sense of longing and introspection. Through the metaphor of a broken TV screen, Petriea paints a picture of emotional disconnection and the struggle to liberate oneself from past memories. The work's subtle complexity invites readers to ponder the transient nature of happiness and the comfort found in familiar routines.

Lapis-Lazuli #26619c

Original Submission by Cosmin Petriea

an old TV

I stare into nothingness

there’s nothing to see

I stare at my broken TV

kaleidoscope

the cigarette burnt

the cardboard coaster

I recall the day

my arms were broken

so bad I could not hold anyone

anymore, at any time

in any way, shape

or form of affection

but I was taught today

to liberate without

forcing myself not to cry

thank you.

I’m still staring at the grey

screen, static, the cable is gone

connected to my heart

too much power

I’m trying not to regurgitate

my beloved memories

of some beautiful cartoons

I used to stare at

when I was too little

to love, to liberate

I could not

the screen is burning

I would paint it grey

It doesn’t have to be more

than it can actually be

I would not put so much pressure

I should not be more

than I will have been

when my eyes

turn away from my beloved screen

when my eyes

shut down - static

when I

decide to lie on the sofa

along with some tuna cans

in sunflower oil

it gets into my eyes,

I’m hardly blinking

my cat sitting right in front

of the TV

I know it is time

to go to bed

gone too soon

I cannot sleep

I’m in a bad shape

static

paralyzed in the gentle sunlight

flooding the walls

melting my skin

I hope I can fall asleep

early tonight

so I can watch TV

tomorrow

alone

in my blue room

eating blueberries

on the ashes of my

cardboard coaster

my grey arms fall

on the pearl-white drops of

expired yogurt

altered by blue-green mold

it’s an ecosystem

that became my beloved world

but I wiped it off

I loved it too much

I chose to

Liberate it

that old TV

is my only source of light

when dusk settles

in the snowy landscape

I thought we were in July

alive

I’m alone now

in obscure blue light

it’s winter

this wall is cold

it’s snowing from the ceiling

I’m alone

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform that showcases the diverse talents of writers and poets from around the world. By providing a stage for creative expression, the competition encourages participants to explore a wide range of themes and styles, celebrating the art of storytelling and poetic expression without the constraints of geographical borders.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Cosmin Petriea for sharing "an old TV" with the world through the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your evocative portrayal of solitude and memory has added depth and emotion to the event. We look forward to seeing more of your creative endeavors in the future.

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.