Heard, not seen - By Sumaa Tekur

Written By: Sumaa Tekur

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the poetic landscape of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, Sumaa Tekur presents "Heard, not seen." This poem is a graceful addition to the poetry category, inviting readers into a world where the unseen can have a profound impact. Through her work, Sumaa captures the ethereal beauty of sounds that heal and connect us to nature, even when they remain unseen.

About the Work

"Heard, not seen" is a lyrical exploration of the relationship between sound and emotion. Sumaa Tekur uses evocative imagery and a gentle, flowing rhythm to express how a simple melody can heal and uplift. The poem paints a vivid picture of the whistling thrush, an unseen yet comforting presence, weaving a sense of companionship and peace through its song.

Heard, not seen

Original Submission by Sumaa Tekur

Poem 7 for Hashtag Kalakar

By Sumaa Tekur

Heard, not seen

I hear you

I am awake

My body is not

My eyes open last

After my limbs have stirred

From under the lazy sheets

The singsong whistle

Is unmistakeable

Human-like

But only far better

Your notes are a perfect pitch

The first day I heard you

I wondered who it was

Whistling at this early hour

Farmers on the coffee plantation

Trying to track each other?

No, it was you

Morning after morning

As prompt as the Sun himself

You came outside my window

And sang for me

Your sweetest melody

That struck a cord

Straight to my heart

From that cord

You siphoned my pain

And years of fatigue

While pulsing through it

Healing and love

I asked around for your name

Whistling thrush, they told me

Blue and rare to spot

Almost never

You like to hide in the shadows and

Do your work

On some evenings, I hear you

When it’s cloudy and I sit

With a second cup of tea

To celebrate the mist

Collected by the forest

You will always be

That friend I made

Whom I can only hear

But will not see

On your terms, my friend

A whistle in the wind

A song never seen, only heard

So be it

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About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform that celebrates the art of written expression. It invites participants from around the world to share their unique voices and creative works, fostering a global community of poets and writers dedicated to exploring diverse themes and narratives.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Sumaa Tekur for sharing "Heard, not seen" with us. Your contribution to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 enriches the tapestry of voices and stories we celebrate. We appreciate your dedication to capturing the unseen beauty around us.

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.