Empty Vase - By Meriem Ghandir

Written By: Meriem ghandir

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Meriem Ghandir, writing under the name Shovel, graces the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 with her poetic entry, "Empty Vase." In the realm of poetry, Ghandir's work stands out with its subtle exploration of emptiness and introspection. Through this competition, Hashtag Kalakar continues to celebrate the artistry and creativity of writers from around the globe, encouraging them to share their unique voices and perspectives.

About the Work

"Empty Vase" delves into themes of emptiness, self-reflection, and the transient nature of beauty and value. Ghandir weaves a narrative rich in imagery and metaphor, capturing the essence of human vulnerability and the quest for meaning. The poem's tone is contemplative, inviting readers to ponder their own existence and worth through the lens of an inanimate object, the vase, which serves as a poignant symbol throughout.

Shovel

Original Submission by Meriem ghandir

Empty vase:

“Upon inspection,

the daisies were untouched.”

Its clouds loom over cities,

waiting to be clutched.

It’s strange how life

uplifts those who trust.

Ask in return—

only the sound of a gust.

Carrying me through stillness,

I do what I must.

In desperate times

I hold my breath

like a vase—

a hollow that holds

and waltzes with grace.

Blind to the faces of others,

Am I worth the empty space?

Objects don’t think;

they vanish in beauty.

With my thoughts, I sink,

yet remain present on duty.

“She’s on sale—

What a beautiful cup.”

“Mother, it’s a vase.”

Sometimes I wonder, what.

“Made in 1997,”

she stands alone,

with a cut.

⸻

“The vase is unique.”

Ceramic tiles guard me

from the lies I would seek.

A habit I built

to protect my youth.

Like the mind of a sculptor

I never sold the truth.

I rehearse my lines with a quiet ruth.

The dust settles into

my winter storm,

which took everything from me

except my wicked form.

And from my tomb,

I try because I must—

never to become the vase

known for its rust.

Inside the parlor,

the mirror reflects

all the sales unmarked.

my work endures—

a tragic art.

A customer reaches in,

searching to match her heart.

She peers into my interior;

The air grows cold.

Shackled by my vessel,

my new skin unfolds.

The shopkeeper

looks around as though she’s insane.

“What was she thinking?”

he whispers under his breath.

“Is my commodity, to him,”

I thought—

“truly a death?”

But the shopkeeper

repeats a refrain

I’ll never forget:

“In all condolences,

with my deepest regrets…”

A curse, a letter

waiting to unfold:

“Oh—this thing?

It could never be sold.”

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, is a prestigious platform that showcases a diverse array of literary talents from around the world. This competition fosters a space where poets and writers can express their creativity, explore complex themes, and connect with a global audience. It celebrates the power of words and the impact of storytelling across cultures and communities.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Meriem Ghandir for her evocative poem "Empty Vase," shared as part of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her work enriches the competition and resonates deeply with its audience. We look forward to seeing more of her insightful contributions to the world of poetry and creative writing.

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.