An Open Window - By FRANCESCA PELLI

Written By: FRANCESCA PELLI

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Francesca Pelli offers us a poignant glimpse into a world touched by lockdown through her poem "An Open Window." As a participant in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, she brings her unique perspective to the Poetry category. Set against a backdrop of muted cityscapes under grey clouds, Pelli’s work evokes themes of nature's resilience and freedom amidst human constraints.

About the Work

"An Open Window" is a lyrical exploration of nature's enduring spirit, even amidst human-imposed restrictions. Francesca Pelli uses vivid imagery and rhythmic elegance to paint a scene where the natural elements reclaim their freedom. The poem's mood is contemplative, yet celebratory, as it captures the harmony between the sea, wind, and wildlife, inviting readers to reflect on the delicate balance between human activity and the natural world.

An Open Window

Original Submission by FRANCESCA PELLI

An Open Window

Low, grey cloud blanketing the muted city

Humans hiding under the cover of fear and command.

Quiet, steady drizzle falling on rooftops and roadways

landing on the ground with its own little ditty;

Shifting direction with the breeze from the ocean

flowing from the skies and in constant motion.

While autumn leaves are dancing to a rhythm of their own

and the birds and the wind come together in song

with the swaying, the swaying, the swaying of branches,

the sea joins the chorus so the anthem enhances.

The waves are revelling in their freedom to soar

as man-made mechanisms weigh them down no more,

gulping in air, with sighs of relief,

to relish the respite, however brief.

Rising up on their haunches to peak near the sky,

taunting the seabirds and tickling their thighs.

Starlings are hopping from berry to berry,

dining with joy at no interruption.

The feast is ongoing and gathers more guests

before the sunset there’ll be little rest.

Trees are rustling with feathers and feet

as delighted birds chatter, singing praise for this treat,

“While the human’s away, nature will play!”

© Francesca Pelli

Cape Town

20 April 2020 (lockdown day 25)

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform celebrating the richness of creative expression. It invites poets and writers worldwide to share their unique voices and perspectives. The competition aims to foster a global community of creatives, providing a space for both emerging and established writers to shine.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Francesca Pelli for sharing "An Open Window" with us. Her participation in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 adds a rich layer to the tapestry of voices exploring the human condition and the natural world. We look forward to more inspiring contributions from her.

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.