Did you notice me - By Mark James

Written By: Mark James

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Mark James presents a heartfelt poem titled "Did you notice me," a touching entry in the Poetry category of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This poem is a reflective dialogue between a weeping willow and a stream, where themes of friendship, gratitude, and unnoticed sacrifices unfold. Mark's work invites readers to contemplate the often-overlooked gestures of care and the profound connections that exist in nature and human relationships.

About the Work

"Did you notice me" by Mark James uses vivid imagery and a compelling dialogue to explore themes of unnoticed devotion and gratitude. The poem's reflective tone and emotional depth capture the essence of a heartfelt farewell to a beloved friend. Through the metaphor of a willow and a river, Mark skillfully weaves a narrative that highlights the enduring strength and silent support in relationships, leaving a resonant impact on the reader.

Did you notice me

Original Submission by Mark James

Did you notice me?

By Mark James

On the occasion of the death of a dear friend, who served me with such diligence and tender care…

Said the weeping willow to the stream…

The water rushes by like a giant living being

Never stopping, never caring to notice anything

Drop-upon-drop till the torrents roll along

Never looking back to notice where it just came from.

Did you see me standing here, I wonder as you flowed

Did you notice that I’m rooted here to help you down the road

To steer you your journey, who knows where to end

When all I see, in my small world, is just the nearest bend.

Did you hear me, mighty river, as I bellowed my hello

Did you notice when I smiled or just too busy with your flow

To work your work of workings that I’ll simply never know

And will you ever get there, or doomed to go and go and go.

The river’s raging reply…

You may not have felt the soothing of my hand upon your boughs

Or seen me linger longer in your shadow for hours and hours

For the best part of my journey was the bend on which you wait

Never judging, never rushing, not too early, not too late.

I recall your cheerful greeting on the days I cared to see

Like clockwork, like a beacon, I’d look up and there you’d be

You seemed to know just what I needed as I visited your banks

And – if I did not make it clear enough before – Willow, thanks.

For the caring and the knowing, for the added love you bring

For your tirelessly standing there, to simply fetch and bring,

I thank you good friend Willow, majestic, mighty tree

As we bear you on your journey to a place where you are free.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 hosted by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform celebrating the art of poetry and creative writing. It brings together writers from around the world to showcase their talents and share their unique voices. This competition is an opportunity for emerging and established writers to engage with a global audience, fostering a community of creativity and literary excellence.

We extend our sincere thanks to Mark James for sharing "Did you notice me" with us in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your poignant reflection on friendship and gratitude resonates deeply, reminding us of the beauty in unnoticed acts of kindness. We appreciate your contribution and look forward to seeing more of your heartfelt 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.