Ephemeral Infatuations - By Sohum Sawant

Written By: Sohum Sawant

Category: Poetry

Competition: Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the evocative poem "Ephemeral Infatuations," Sohum Sawant invites readers into a world of nostalgia and introspection as part of the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar. This entry in the Poetry category explores the fleeting nature of infatuations and unexpressed emotions, painting a vivid picture of youthful longing and introspective solitude. Through its poignant imagery, the poem reflects on themes of missed connections and the passage of time.

About the Work

"Ephemeral Infatuations" captures the essence of unspoken love and the melancholy of unfulfilled dreams. Sohum Sawant weaves a tapestry of emotions through rich imagery and reflective musings. The poem's narrative of unsent letters and introspection resonates with anyone who has ever experienced the bittersweet nature of infatuation. Its language is lyrical, its mood contemplative, and its message universal, making it a heartfelt addition to the competition.

Ephemeral Infatuations

Original Submission by Sohum Sawant

Ephemeral Infatuations

I was a wild-spirited schoolboy of spring,

when I wrote letters so white,

the blank pages set me affright

painted with unnumbered sparks of dreams

that conspired with fallacies.

I could never put one in the post box.

Perhaps I was too short, perhaps too afraid.

I'd rather be the martyr than the murderer

so I thought.

Atop the crown of the mountain, she lived.

Her world looked like music

I was never taught to play.

I knew my sullied letters could never reach her.

It is winter now, and I sit unaccompanied in the dark, introspecting:

How many letters were never sent?

How many hunkered down

too fraid,

confounded 'twixt the burden and the bearer?

I endlessly drift through the night, with my heart aflutter,

thinking if she might have sent a letter to the silver knight.

I've lost the stamp now.

I dwell in desiderium, aching for the smile

for which I may have never been the reason.

I hold the envelope in the light

to see if it might glow her name inside, but I see only me

folding, fading, flickering away, wanting to be posted

to a world where I am not afraid.

The melancholy that resides in me

pleads to be set free,

like the ink caressing the awaiting page.

About the Competition

The Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar showcases diverse voices and creative expressions from around the world. Participants are given a platform to share their unique perspectives and literary talents, celebrating the art of storytelling and poetry. The competition serves as a vibrant arena for poets and writers to engage with a wider audience and contribute to the creative arts community.

We extend our deepest gratitude to Sohum Sawant for sharing "Ephemeral Infatuations" with us in the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your evocative portrayal of infatuation and reflection adds depth to the tapestry of creative works in the competition. Thank you for your contribution and for enriching the literary landscape with your profound words.

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.