“Endless shift” - By Priyanka Pati

Written By: Priyanka Pati

Category: Poetry

Competition: Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Priyanka Pati presents a poignant piece titled "Endless shift," featured in the Poetry category of the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar. Through her poetic lens, Priyanka delves into the relentless cycle of modern work-life, capturing the essence of exhaustion and the pursuit of peace amidst chaos. Her work resonates with anyone caught in the whirlwind of daily responsibilities, reflecting the universal struggle to find balance in a demanding world.

About the Work

"Endless shift" encapsulates the relentless rhythm of contemporary work life, blending vivid imagery with a reflective tone. Priyanka's use of language captures the fatigue of sleepless nights and the unending quest for success. Her poem paints a picture of weariness and longing for respite, effectively conveying the emotional toll of constant hustle. The juxtaposition of the soul's desire for peace against the mind's chase for success encapsulates the central theme of her work.

“Endless shift”

Original Submission by Priyanka Pati

“Endless shift”

We work relentlessly through the day,

Juggling through all that comes our way:

The sleepless night,

The unending fights.

The soul craves peace; the mind chases success,

While the body is stuck in between trying to navigate through the mess.

The cold cup of coffee sits untouched,

As schedules and meetings are rushed.

Every blink feels stolen;

Our tired eyes grow swollen.

The calendar is full of meetings unattended,

As we sit all day long on the chair, bent.

We need some rest for our working fingers,

And for the mental peace that barely lingers.

We work for someone else’s dream,

Collectively, together as a team.

The nights we spent staring at the merciless screen,

Torturing our spine for a goal unseen.

About the Competition

The Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar celebrates diverse voices and artistic expression. This prestigious platform invites participants to share their unique perspectives through poetry, short stories, and creative writing. It is a space where creativity meets community, offering writers an opportunity to showcase their talents and engage with a broader audience.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Priyanka Pati for her participation in the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her poem "Endless shift" beautifully captures the struggles of modern life, resonating with readers everywhere. We appreciate her contribution and look forward to more inspiring work from her 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.