Anymore - By Chris Dino Mahinay

Written By: Chris Dino Mahinay

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, Chris Dino Mahinay presents "Anymore," a moving piece in the poetry category. This evocative poem delves into the complexities of love, distance, and change, inviting readers to reflect on the emotional nuances of a relationship tested by time and space. Through vivid imagery and heartfelt expression, Mahinay captures the bittersweet longing that accompanies physical separation.

About the Work

"Anymore" is a poignant exploration of love's endurance amidst geographical separation. With a reflective tone, Mahinay weaves a narrative rich in imagery and emotion, capturing the essence of longing and the passage of time. The poem's contemplative style and vivid descriptions serve to underline the enduring connection between two souls, despite the challenges posed by distance.

Anymore

Original Submission by Chris Dino Mahinay

Anymore

by Chris Dino Belacho

I thought about the time when you left for Pittsburgh,

when you were gone for the summer

touring around on long-drive buses

on an invitation that you received

to see your new school.

You complained about

how red your ears were

because of the cold

and how they hurt sometimes

when I got that first long-distance call

late in the night on a payphone.

That must have cost you a fortune

but you kept on calling anyway

after your parents had gone to bed

when only after a few days

you shared how the sun sets differently there

and the rice wasn’t anything like rice at all

but we both knew they were the same things,

like how we were despite the timezones

and the proximity or the absence of;

that it was the same coin that you flipped

only it landed on the wrong side,

but I took it back,

it was perhaps the right side all along;

that it was all for the best

but that got to you

and you wanted to see past the sun

climb on its perch

and run home

to see me

and strangle me

but all you could do was call

until you didn’t at all.

I guess you wanted me to do something, anything,

so I called you back

and convinced you to wait up

I was saving up

to catch up

but I was building a well in the desert;

landlocked;

and it went on like that

like a joyride

in a vacant lot

we drove around in circles

then the tank was eventually dry,

we ran out

racked up no roads

but you still called

for a few more times

waited a few more summers

until you didn’t anymore.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, celebrates writers from around the world, offering a platform to showcase their creativity and literary talent. This prestigious event encourages participants to share their unique voices and stories, fostering a global community of writers and poets.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Chris Dino Mahinay for sharing "Anymore" with us in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your work beautifully captures the emotional depth of distant relationships, resonating with readers who know the challenges and triumphs of love across miles.

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.