Here and There - By Arthur Neong

Written By: Arthur Neong

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Arthur Neong graces the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 with his poignant piece, "Here and There." This poetry submission is a thoughtful reflection on the themes of travel and the comforting notions of home. Drawing inspiration from the timeless influence of Billy Joel’s "New York State of Mind," Neong invites readers on a journey that contrasts the allure of foreign lands with the understated beauty of familiar surroundings.

About the Work

"Here and There" by Arthur Neong delves into the dichotomy of wanderlust and the pull towards home. The poem paints vivid imagery of travel, contrasting the allure of faraway destinations with the rich experiences found in one's own backyard. Through a tone that is both reflective and candid, Neong captures the universal longing for both adventure and the peace of coming home, all while weaving a narrative that resonates with the reader's own perceptions of journey and place.

Here and There

Original Submission by Arthur Neong

Here and There

after Billy Joel’s ‘New York State of Mind’

‘Some folks like to get away, take a holiday’

overseas out of the country, grab a plane

over the clouds and touch down

at the furthest beach,

sip the booze and dry oxygen air,

chew nuts and recline on business-class seats

or economy, munch airplane food,

tasty as they are, in aluminium-foil box,

in the winged jet.

Really, they just want to take the plane,

sit back and watch the in-flight entertainment.

Really, they just want the air-steward(ess)

treatment.

Really, they just want to pack their suitcase(s),

buy the flight ticket, board and wait,

grab food that isn’t here but there.

Really, they just want to keep moving in a foreign

land, because local is too close to home,

and foreign is Instagram-able.

But really, I’m just being cynical.

I like to drive to my vacation place, with my own two hands.

Take my own sweet time. Stop for my toilet break

and food.

I like to pump my own gas.

Here gas is subsidized.

Here my journey begins when I close the door.

Here my journey begins whether I drive

or someone else in the driver’s seat.

Here my journey begins when I pass by

the myriad sceneries.

But to see the clouds, I have to look up.

Here, every place I go I learn more about home.

It’s like learning about my own heart,

diseased as they come.

Cigarette butts, alcohol and all.

Rubbish-clogged-and-strewn.

Gorgeous people selling gorgeous food.

Secluded hideouts no one knows

but the locals.

I try to seek them out,

by land,

Those plane-tary places

too dear a bird to board. And best of all,

there’s no end to here,

now my home.

I call it. Yes, I call it.

My home.

Perhaps, a state of mind.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, celebrates the art of the written word by showcasing diverse voices from around the world. This competition provides a platform for poets and writers to share their unique perspectives and creativity, fostering a global community of literary enthusiasts. Participants are invited to contribute their original works, adding to the rich tapestry of contemporary literature celebrated by the event.

We extend our gratitude to Arthur Neong for sharing "Here and There" with the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. His work enriches the competition with its thoughtful exploration of travel and home. Thank you, Arthur, for your contribution to this literary celebration.

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.