Desire You - By Hiya Banerjee

Written By: Hiya Banerjee

Category: Poetry

Competition: Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the 2026 edition of Hashtag Kalakar's Poetry and Creative Writing Competition, Hiya Banerjee presents "Desire You," a deeply moving piece in the poetry category. This work explores the tumultuous emotions of love and longing, capturing the essence of human connections and the pangs of unspoken words. With its evocative language and emotional depth, "Desire You" resonates with anyone who has experienced the bittersweet nature of love.

About the Work

"Desire You" delves into the complex emotions of regret and yearning, painting a vivid picture of love unfulfilled. Hiya Banerjee uses powerful imagery and a heartfelt narrative to convey the inner turmoil of the speaker. The poem's structure and rhythm mirror the ebb and flow of emotions, creating an intimate experience for the reader. Themes of pride, missed opportunities, and enduring affection are woven throughout, leaving a lasting impression.

Desire You

Original Submission by Hiya Banerjee

DESIRE YOU

As long as I live, you will be loved,

I thought to myself.

But now I am mad,

My heart is writhing in pain.

I should have held you in my arms,

Caressed your arms as I whispered those words in your ears, but I didn't.

The words formed on my lips,

Once and twice and again and again,

But forever seemed far away, so they were never found.

I fist the cloth over my chest,

I hit it until my skin turns red.

The rims of my eyes ache.

I called you a flying butterfly,

But I failed to notice your withering wings.

I foolishly waited for you to extend your hand again,

Saying, “Only then can I give my heart away again.”

Now I want to tear myself apart and curse it all.

My pride should have listened to my heart and run to you.

Right now, as I stand in the rain and cover you with my soft scarf,

All I can say is, you have always been and still are the one I like,

Hoping it would draw the blue butterflies over your scars.

As long as I live, you will be loved,

I thought to myself.

But now I am mad,

My heart is writhing in pain.

I should have held you in my arms,

Caressed your arms as I whispered those words in your ears, but I didn't.

The words formed on my lips,

Once and twice and again and again,

But forever seemed far away, so they were never found.

I fist the cloth over my chest,

I hit it until my skin turns red.

The rims of my eyes ache.

I called you a flying butterfly,

But I failed to notice your withering wings.

I foolishly waited for you to extend your hand again,

Saying, “Only then can I give my heart away again.”

Now I want to tear myself apart and curse it all.

My pride should have listened to my heart and run to you.

Right now, as I stand in the rain and cover you with my soft scarf,

All I can say is, you have always been and still are the one I like,

Hoping it would draw the blue butterflies over your scars.

* Hiya Banerjee

About the Competition

The Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a celebration of literary talent, offering a platform for writers to showcase their creativity. It welcomes diverse submissions from around the world, fostering a community of artistic expression and storytelling. Participants share their unique voices and perspectives, contributing to the rich tapestry of contemporary literature.

Thank you, Hiya Banerjee, for sharing "Desire You" with us in the 2026 Poetry and Creative Writing Competition. Your poignant exploration of love and emotion adds a valuable voice to the collection. We are grateful for your contribution and look forward to seeing more of your 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.