Are We Not Blind - By Najah Ilham

Written By: Najah Ilham

Category: Poetry

Competition: Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the evocative poetic entry "Are We Not Blind," Najah Ilham invites readers to ponder the nuances of perception and belief. Submitted as part of the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, this poem challenges the boundaries between physical sight and metaphorical insight. Ilham's work navigates the layered complexities of how beliefs shape our understanding of the world, making it a compelling read in this year's competition.

About the Work

Najah Ilham's poem "Are We Not Blind" delves into the dichotomy between physical blindness and metaphorical sightlessness. With a reflective tone, the piece explores how societal norms and beliefs often obscure true understanding. The poem's vivid imagery and thought-provoking questions challenge readers to reconsider their perceptions, urging a deeper reflection on the constructs of belief and reality.

Are we not Blind

Original Submission by Najah Ilham

Are we not Blind?

The blind people I see,

struggle to walk, stand and sit at ease,

without a stick’s aid.

The people not blind I see,

easily walk, stand and dance,

without a stick’s aid.

Yet I doubt that blindness,

a misery or a muzzle.

When sightless fumble for the stick at dawn,

the sighted see fault and zip their lips.

When sightless trusts what heard,

the sighted witness the truth and accept the myth.

When sightless make future decisions by early grasped norms,

the sighted seek impetuous actions.

Loads of absurdity, laid by people,

with vision and beliefs.

Religious beliefs spread varying customs and rites,

so do atheists.

Racism beliefs often pin us,

to each class of colours and paints.

There’s upper and lower.

There’s black and white.

There’s masculine and feminine.

There’s poverty and abundance.

After all, how can we say,

that we are not blind?

Amid such false constellations,

why not risk all beliefs and hold to one,

to see both sides of a leaf?

When beliefs were mustered into folly,

Legends came to show the realism.

Yet after each of their passing,

new constellations were formed.

If beliefs were to follow moralism,

they do not.

They turn instead to superstition,

spreading fear above peace,

forcing obedience to imprinted rules,

over an individual’s free will.

About the Competition

The Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a celebration of literary talent from across the globe. This prestigious event provides a platform for poets and writers to express their creativity and share their unique voices. Participants explore diverse themes, contributing to a rich tapestry of contemporary literature.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Najah Ilham for sharing the insightful poem "Are We Not Blind" with us. Your contribution to the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 enriches the dialogue on perception and belief. We look forward to seeing more of your thought-provoking work 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.