Creatures of Habit - By Zainab Ubaidullah Ansari

Written By: Zainab Ubaidullah Ansari

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the evocative poem "Creatures of Habit," Zainab Ubaidullah Ansari delves into the intricacies of human nature within the category of Poetry. As part of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, this work invites readers to explore the patterns and emotions that define us. With a profound understanding of the habitual cycles we find ourselves in, Zainab's piece resonates deeply, prompting introspection and reflection.

About the Work

"Creatures of Habit" eloquently captures the cyclic nature of human emotions and relationships. Through vivid imagery and a lyrical style, Zainab paints a portrait of love, loss, and the habitual routines that bind us. The poem's mood fluctuates between somber and reflective, employing metaphor and irony to convey its message. Themes of repetition, heartache, and resilience intertwine, leading readers through an emotional journey.

creatures of habit

Original Submission by Zainab Ubaidullah Ansari

* creatures of habit

we’re creatures of habit,

* I crack and you cling,

* two ghosts in a garden

* still watering the spring.

* i laugh at the silence,

* it echoes too loud,

* like juggling joy

* in a funeral crowd.

* * your halo was hazard,

* my heaven was hell,

* i tripped on the tales

* that your tongue used to tell.

* like chess with no pieces,

* we played with the pain,

* your kiss was a thunderstorm

* kissing the rain.

* * i stitched up the scars

* with sarcasm and sin,

* called heartbreak a hobby,

* then signed up again.

* a circus of secrets,

* we slipped through the seams,

* your smile was the straightjacket

* strangling my dreams.

* * creatures of habit,

* we orbit, we ache,

* repeating the ruins

* like rivers that break.

* i joke while i’m bleeding

* a clown on her knees,

* confessing to coffins,

* composing disease.

* * so toast to the patterns,

* the poison, the plan,

* i’ll lose you tomorrow

* the same way i can.

* for love is a riddle,

* ridiculous, rabid,

* and we are its punchline,

* just creatures of habit.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious event celebrating diverse voices and creative expression. This competition brings together poets and writers worldwide, offering a platform for sharing unique insights and compelling narratives. Participants contribute their works to a community that values innovation and storytelling, fostering a global appreciation for the creative arts.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Zainab Ubaidullah Ansari for sharing "Creatures of Habit" in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her artistic exploration of human nature and emotions has enriched the tapestry of voices in this event. We look forward to seeing more of Zainab's evocative contributions to the literary world.

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.