Emotionally Intelligent: Pleasure or Sickness? - By Khawlah binti Khairul Azli

Written By: Khawlah binti Khairul Azli

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Khawlah binti Khairul Azli presents a moving piece titled "Emotionally Intelligent: Pleasure or Sickness?" in the Poetry category. This work is part of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, which showcases diverse voices and themes. Khawlah's poem explores the intricate balance between strength and vulnerability, diving deep into the emotional landscape of being emotionally intelligent.

About the Work

Khawlah's poem delves into the dual nature of emotional intelligence, depicting it as both a source of strength and a burden. The piece is rich in imagery and evokes a sense of introspection, inviting readers to ponder the fine line between liberation and ensnarement. Through vivid language, the poem captures the silent struggles and the unseen burdens carried by those who provide support to others.

Emotionally Intelligent

Original Submission by Khawlah binti Khairul Azli

Emotionally Intelligent: Pleasure or Sickness?

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By Khawlah

Emotionally Intelligent.

Between pleasure and sickness,

Between liberation and ensnarement,

Between emotions and wounds,

From the ear down to the heart,

Bleeding through every word that escaped my thoughts.

It's making me tight,

Or making me loose?

Emotionally Intelligent.

Being the one who offers reassurance,

Being the one who always has a shoulder,

Being the one who gives motivations,

Being the one who bleeds in silence.

It hurts.

It's making me consume my own life.

Because the emotionally intelligent,

Barely find a soul to listen to their own life,

Holding their hands and words like a lifeline,

An emotionally intelligent person appears strong,

Drawing blood beyond their reach,

Just to hear what others complain about.

An emotionally intelligent person sits in silence,

Their tears pouring everything in life,

The yearning that breaks them down slowly,

The wound that consumes all their energy,

The burden carried for the sake of living,

The thoughts lingering in the back of their mind as they cut everything away.

Emotionally intelligent

Pleasure or Sickness?

Perhaps equal is the perfect word.

With every tear,

And every pain,

— Khawlah

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a platform celebrating creative expression from around the world. This prestigious event encourages writers to share their unique perspectives and literary talents. It serves as a confluence of cultures and ideas, fostering a community of creativity and innovation in poetry and writing.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Khawlah binti Khairul Azli for her poignant submission, "Emotionally Intelligent: Pleasure or Sickness?" Her participation in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 brings a profound narrative to the forefront. Thank you, Khawlah, for sharing your voice and enriching this global literary dialogue.

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.