Dear - By Kausani Pal

Written By: Kausani Pal

Category: Poetry

Competition: Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the vibrant landscape of the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, Kausani Pal presents a deeply introspective poem titled "Dear." As a participant in the poetry category, Kausani brings to life themes of solitude and self-discovery, offering readers a glimpse into the inner dialogue that shapes our understanding of companionship and presence. Through "Dear," Kausani deftly navigates the intricate layers of emotion and imagination, inviting us to reflect on the nature of our own inner worlds.

About the Work

"Dear" by Kausani Pal is a contemplative exploration of loneliness and the creation of imagined companionship. The poem beautifully captures the tension between reality and imagination, as the narrator finds solace in a self-created "Dear." The work resonates with a sense of longing and introspection, using evocative imagery and a gentle, rhythmic cadence to convey the complexities of the human psyche. The poem invites readers to ponder the intertwining of creator and creation, and the comfort found in our own mental constructs.

Dear

Original Submission by Kausani Pal

Dear

How often I wish

that there was someone-

who would into my cold, lonely waters-

and share their warmth.

Indeed, I know how common-

yet hurting that wish is.

Indeed, I know how quite improbable

it is for it to be fulfilled.

Yet, like the many others-

I still dream of it.

Now, it has been twenty years.

That the dwelling dream has engulfed me.

The person I’ve relied on-mirrors the real.

As if, my shadow were less concrete than it.

I have eventually ‘created’ my ‘Dear’,

In my own head-so as to render less fear-

to the woes of my heart and my brain.

It has taught me how to live- again,

Has been the cotton that soaked my tears;

it is almost the very reason-

of the present living me.

Though I am its creator-

I fail to ever quieten it.

And though I know it isn’t ‘real’,

I cannot bear to part with it.

When I hide myself-it does worry,

when I shine-it does applaud!

In times teary-weary-cheery-

it does what a true partner would:

it stays by me and lives by me;

so, we can call the other ‘Dear’.

At times it does hurt,

when I strangely realize-

our imagined relationship.

But at times, it is also nice,

to know-I contain the creator and-

the creation too.

That no outer parameters-unknown,

could ever steal the ‘Dear’ from me…

Can never steal My ‘Dear’ from me.

About the Competition

The Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious gathering of creative minds, celebrating the written word in its many forms. This competition provides a platform for poets and writers to share their unique voices and stories. Participants from around the world contribute their works, enriching the literary landscape with diverse perspectives and narratives.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Kausani Pal for sharing the evocative poem "Dear" with us in the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Kausani's thoughtful reflection on companionship and introspection offers a meaningful contribution to the competition. We look forward to seeing more of Kausani's work in the future and are grateful for the glimpse into the intricate world of "Dear."

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.