Hiraeth - By Anu Xavier

Written By: Anu Xavier

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Anu Xavier, under the writing name "Hiraeth," presents a captivating poem titled "Hiraeth" in the Poetry category of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This evocative piece delves into the themes of nostalgia and yearning, inviting readers to explore a tapestry of memories woven with vivid imagery and emotional depth. Anu's work resonates with those who cherish the past, offering a poignant reflection on time and the enduring power of recollection.

About the Work

"Hiraeth" is a richly textured poem that transports readers through a sensory journey of memories and emotions. Anu Xavier skillfully employs imagery and sensory details to evoke a deep sense of longing and introspection. The poem's mood is nostalgic, capturing moments of simplicity and innocence while acknowledging the shadows of regret and solitude. Through its lyrical style, "Hiraeth" invites readers to immerse themselves in a world where every scent and sound awakens a forgotten memory.

Hiraeth

Original Submission by Anu Xavier

image1790497132494.png

Hiraeth by Anu Xavier

Hanging from the tree of life

Are thousand iridescent memories.

Warm, fuzzy, pulsating memories.

Memories- that I can almost touch.

It takes me back to simpler times.

Times, where beautiful minds sustained.

Times, uncomplicated with the burden of life.

Times, before despair sunk its deep roots.

Times, where I could engage, the child within.

I smell Brut suffused wooden almirah

As I sift through bolts of silk,

In search of a hidden treasure -

A box of mismatched buttons,

For which even the King is a glutton.

I drink in the petrichor-

Bottled up aroma which rain releases

My heart pangs for the unbridled joy image1790497132518.png

Of dancing in the June rain

As Grandpa fondly watches by.

I taste the promise of fried sardines in the air,

As the evening church bell tolls by.

A rushed up bath and a touch of prayer,

Supper couldn't get here sooner.

I bask in Grandma's love, as she erases,

Pinpricks of doubt sown into my young soul.

Though some thorns agonisingly linger,

Wood smoke stubbornly clings by.

My mind paints a kaleidoscope of memories,

In colours, I knew nothing about.

A profound yearning engulfs my matter,

Leaving a dab of Yardley lavender and

A long forgotten trip to remember by?!

Every smell awakes a poetry within,

Mourning memories lost to the seas of time.

I would rather dwell than dart, image1790497132538.png

For here, geraniums and rose jasmines

Always smell the same.

The stench of regret and loneliness

Permeates the air.

The letters, my friends lovingly bestowed,

Lay charred, catching me unaware.

A warning, a flash,

To get my bearings right,

For it wouldn't be long before,

The beautiful mind gets shackled, again.

Imperfect, though perceived,

Even a crow has the right to sing.

She searches far and wide,

But finds everyone empty within.

My heart murmurs to build a home,

Despite the blur of grey and black.

Seeking solace in the endless Sky,

A forlorn hope unfurls in the Earth,

Sprouting tendrils of love, once again. image1790497132558.png

- Anu Xavier

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, is a prestigious platform celebrating the art of written expression. This competition welcomes participants from around the world to share their unique voices and stories across various categories, including poetry, short stories, essays, and creative writing. It is an opportunity for writers to showcase their talents and connect with a global community of literature enthusiasts.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Anu Xavier for sharing the beautiful poem "Hiraeth" with us as part of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Anu's work offers a profound exploration of memory and emotion, resonating deeply with readers. We are grateful for the opportunity to feature such a talent and look forward to more inspiring contributions in the future.

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.