Behind Closed Doors - By Nat Smith

Written By: Nat Smith

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

We are pleased to feature Nat Smith's evocative poem, "Behind Closed Doors," submitted for consideration in the Poetry category of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Nat's work invites readers into a deeply personal and introspective space, exploring themes of emotional resilience and identity. Through a candid reflection on the struggle of maintaining appearances, this poem resonates with anyone who has ever felt the weight of unspoken words.

About the Work

"Behind Closed Doors" poignantly captures the internal conflict of a young individual grappling with societal and familial expectations. The poem's tone is both confessional and resolute, employing rich imagery to convey the narrator's emotional landscape. Through its honest portrayal of vulnerability and strength, Nat Smith's work offers a window into the universal experience of hiding one's true feelings behind a facade of happiness.

Behind Closed Doors

Original Submission by Nat Smith

Behind closed doors

I come home with nothing left,

But somehow I still say I’m fine.

I leave my problems at the door,

And put that smile back on in

Time.

I'm just a teenage girl,

but some days feel much too

old.

I carry things I never say,

and stories that I’ve never told.

Sometimes I want to tell you,

how hard it’s getting just to

breathe,

How I’m tired of pretending

That there’s nothing wrong with

me.

But you need me to be happy,

the daughter who is great,

the one who laughs at dinner

and never makes you worry or

wait.

So I swallow every sentence, every “Mom, Im not okay,”

because I’m scared that if I tell

you,

I’ll become a problem you have

to face.

So I go upstairs and close my

door,

and let the silence hear my

cries.

Then tomorrow I'll come

downstairs

and put the happiness back in

my eyes

Because sometimes being the

happy daughter

Isn't about how happy you are-

It’s about how good you've

gotten

at hiding how far you are from it.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, is a prestigious platform celebrating diverse voices in the literary world. This competition seeks to uncover profound and original works from writers worldwide, fostering a community where creativity and expression flourish. Participants from various genres, including poetry, short stories, and essays, contribute to this vibrant tapestry of contemporary literature.

We extend our sincere gratitude to Nat Smith for sharing "Behind Closed Doors" with us in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your poignant words and heartfelt expression enrich the literary landscape and resonate deeply with readers. Thank you, Nat, for your contribution and for opening our eyes to the strength found in vulnerability.

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.