Echoes in the Afterlight - By Arunika Swaroop

Written By: Arunika Swaroop

Category: Poetry

Competition: Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the evocative poem "Echoes in the Afterlight," Arunika Swaroop delves into the contemplative realm of mortality and the legacy we leave behind. This introspective piece is part of the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar. Arunika's work invites readers to ponder the nature of existence, the afterlife, and the enduring connection with those who have passed.

About the Work

"Echoes in the Afterlight" explores the nuances of death, legacy, and the existential questions surrounding the afterlife. The poem's reflective tone and expressive imagery capture the emotional complexity of remembering those who have departed. Through its probing narrative, the poem raises questions about the continuity of the soul and the impact of one's life on those left behind.

Echoes in the Afterlight

Original Submission by Arunika Swaroop

Is it weird that I think about death?

Maybe not the way you’d imagine

Not about dying, just leaving people behind

I’ve lost a lot people recently

And it makes me wonder where they go

I wonder if we even have a soul

‘Cause if we do, does theirs remember me?

Does it ever check up on me?

Or are they in heaven?

I believe that’s where they’ll be

Hell just sounds too cynical

I know they don’t deserve Lucifer

It’s sad that I think of death

Sontimes of dying too

But mostly of the aftermath

They people left behind.

In my mind, no one remembers me

Just the initial grief

No sitting by my grave, missing me

But then I think,

“Why should they?

Did my life stop for my beloved?”

It’s funny how I think about death

A little more than I’d like to admit

About the Competition

The Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar offers a platform for writers to express their creativity and explore profound themes. The competition celebrates diverse voices and literary excellence, providing participants the opportunity to share their unique perspectives with a wider audience.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Arunika Swaroop for her thought-provoking contribution, "Echoes in the Afterlight," to the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her work enriches the literary landscape with its profound exploration of mortality and memory.

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.