Different Definitions - By Swasti Devarshi

Written By: Swasti Devarshi

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In "Different Definitions," Swasti Devarshi contributes a profound piece to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This poetry submission delves into the intricacies of human perception and communication. Through her poignant verses, Devarshi explores the diverse interpretations that arise from our varied backgrounds and experiences, encouraging readers to reflect on their own perspectives. As part of the poetry category, this work invites a deeper understanding of the world we share, highlighting the importance of empathy and dialogue.

About the Work

Devarshi's poem "Different Definitions" artfully examines the theme of perception and its impact on communication. The poem's contemplative tone and vivid imagery highlight how factors such as culture, language, and personal history shape our understanding of the world. Through contrasts and metaphors, the work reveals the complexities of interpreting meaning and the potential for misunderstanding. The poem advocates for empathy and openness, urging readers to bridge gaps and embrace diverse viewpoints.

Different Definitions

Original Submission by Swasti Devarshi

Different Definitions

In our web of varied perceptions

For one world, as humans we have

different definitions.

The same rain — for some a wait, for some a flood. The same silence — for some restraint, for some prison.

Information seeps into our minds

through the filters of where we were born,

through the language we first learned,

through the borders we crossed.

A gesture of respect in my village,

in another city, may offend.

The home I call my identity,

I call my memory,

for others, maybe just a visiting card.

And we wonder often then

why the communications failed!

Our judgements come

from the interpretations we were given,

May not exactly match what was said.

The speaker means one thing.

The listener may hear another.

The migrant speaks with an accent when

The native may sense a threat.

What’s drawn is an image.

What’s heard is a sound.

What’s perceived is a reflection of

where we stand.

Desert eyes see different deities

than those of the ocean.

Homeland eyes infer differently

than those of exile.

So when a word cuts,

when "go back" becomes headlines in newspapers, we must pause and ask:

Whose lens am I seeing through?

In this era of AI-zation,

we need more humanization.

To sit and say: "This is how I saw it back home." And hear: "This is how we see it here." Different, yet Both Real.

Because truth isn’t one frame.

It’s the space where all truths meet,

without borders, without fences,

without asking anyone to erase their maps.

Or else we will keep mistaking

our brother from another mother

for a stranger,

for the enemy.

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About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform celebrating literary talent from around the world. Participants showcase their creativity in various categories, engaging audiences with their unique voices and perspectives. This competition fosters a global dialogue through the art of writing, encouraging participants to explore themes that resonate universally while highlighting their individual experiences and insights.

We extend our gratitude to Swasti Devarshi for her insightful contribution, "Different Definitions," to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her exploration of human perceptions and communication offers a valuable perspective, reminding us of the power of empathy and understanding. We appreciate her participation and look forward to the continued impact of her thoughtful work in the literary community.

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.