Forged by Fire - By Sarah Checketts

Written By: Sarah Checketts

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the poignant poem "Forged by Fire," Sarah Checketts delves into the intricate themes of friendship and uncertainty. As a participant in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, Sarah offers a reflective piece that captures the essence of human connection amid challenging circumstances. Her work stands within the poetry category, inviting readers to ponder the resilience and solidarity that emerge in times of adversity.

About the Work

"Forged by Fire" reflects on the burgeoning bonds of friendship forged under the pressures of fear and uncertainty. Through evocative imagery and a contemplative tone, Sarah Checketts invites readers to envision the resilience and understanding that develop amidst trials. The poem paints a vivid picture of shared experiences, highlighting the subtle nuances that bind us together even when the skies are turbulent.

Forged by Fire

Original Submission by Sarah Checketts

Forged by Fire

New friendship, growing

familiarity, underpinned, for now,

by a quiet uncertainty,

a fear we don’t name

because we both know it’s there.

Fates drawn together.

An impromptu night sheltering,

a family camp out, more ‘red alert’

than ‘red-hot bowls of chilli’

by a campfire.

Maybe one day

we’ll do that instead-

when the skies have quietened

enough to let us learn

the little things.

This too shall pass, they say.

Inshallah.

I know how you respond

to debris in your pool,

to smoke plumes in the sky.

I know your big kids feel safer

climbing back into your bed, as

mine do too.

I know you check flights

almost daily, just in case.

But I don’t yet know

if you prefer a red or a white,

if you’re a camper or a glamper-

yet we send midnight messages

as missiles light up the sky.

Friends, forged by fire.

Unfriendly fire

in the skies that, to both of us, are home.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar showcases a diverse array of literary talents from around the world. This esteemed event celebrates the art of writing, providing a platform for poets and writers to express their unique voices and perspectives. Participants share their creative works, contributing to a vibrant tapestry of global narratives and themes.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Sarah Checketts for her evocative poem, "Forged by Fire," a compelling entry in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her words remind us of the power of friendship and resilience. We appreciate her contribution and look forward to seeing more of her inspiring 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.