EVANESCE - By Hiya Banerjee

Written By: Hiya Banerjee

Category: Poetry

Competition: Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the evocative poem "EVANESCE," Hiya Banerjee, writing under the name EVANESCE, takes readers on a journey through the corridors of memory. Participating in the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, Hiya shares a nostalgic reflection on childhood, capturing the essence of simpler times. This piece, under the category of Poetry, invites readers to reminisce about the innocence and warmth of youth, stirring emotions that echo the universal theme of longing for the past.

About the Work

"EVANESCE" is a touching exploration of nostalgia, imbued with a sense of longing for the simplicity and unfiltered joy of childhood. The poem's imagery vividly captures moments of youthful creativity and freedom, contrasting them with the complexities of adulthood. Through a blend of wistful reflection and vivid snapshots of the past, Hiya Banerjee crafts a narrative that resonates with anyone who has ever yearned for the days when life felt unburdened by societal pressures.

EVANESCE

Original Submission by Hiya Banerjee

EVANESCE

Sometimes I look at the old pictures,

A bit blurry, with a date stamp in the corner.

My brother standing behind me,

And my funny poses, as if I was the world's explorer.

Maybe I was.

Always so anomalous;

Always trying something new,

Trying to find out about anything that ringed 'anonymous'.

And when I stare at the picture a little too long,

I miss those moments.

My hands soaked in mismatched paint colours,

And my mind buried in placing the pieces of the puzzle.

I miss my heart when it wasn't afraid to open its hands,

How those days seemed picture perfect.

I didn't know of the rapacious society or the brands;

I just knew how to sully my clothes while using my tools to play in the sand.

Back then, time had a warm colour to it.

I didn't have to carry walls with me everywhere I went.

I could depend on others, even if it was for a bit.

I had a place where I would never think twice to ramble on and vent.

I wish years could turn back,

Probably to the time when my brother would wear those tacky glasses and 'kidnap' my unicorn.

I would whine then;

But now it feels more of a convivial souvenir than an edgy thorn.

When I look at these pictures,

I realise something more;

I can't go back anymore.

Now that I was stuck in these inescapable structures,

Things were changing rapidly,

We were growing up and growing old.

Yet I keep wandering back to those low-resolution snapshots,

As if they would patch back whatever had happened and leave me consoled.

-Hiya Banerjee

About the Competition

The Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform celebrating diverse voices in the creative arts. This competition showcases the talents of writers and poets from around the globe, providing a space for expression and innovation. Participants have the opportunity to share unique stories and perspectives, contributing to a vibrant tapestry of contemporary literature.

Thank you, Hiya Banerjee, for sharing your poignant and beautifully crafted poem "EVANESCE" with us. Your participation in the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 adds a heartfelt voice to the collective exploration of memory and growth. We appreciate your contribution and look forward to seeing more of your creative work.

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.