I'm in my Twenties - By Najah Ilham

Written By: Najah Ilham

Category: Poetry

Competition: Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In an evocative submission to the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, Najah Ilham presents "I'm in my Twenties." This poem captures the tangled emotions and introspections of navigating life as a young adult. Within the structure of poetry, Najah explores the universal theme of growing up too soon, with poignant reflections on the pressures and uncertainties faced by many in their twenties.

About the Work

"I'm in my Twenties" delves into the introspective journey of young adulthood, capturing the essence of feeling both lost and burdened by expectations. Through vivid imagery and a reflective tone, Najah Ilham articulates the internal conflicts and societal pressures that accompany this formative decade. The poem is a thoughtful exploration of choice, belonging, and the quest for meaning amidst life's uncertainties.

I'm in my Twenties

Original Submission by Najah Ilham

I’m in my Twenties

I'm in my twenties,

and I forgot the taste of plenty.

Haven't we youngsters,

become old soul too soon?

I'm in my twenties,

and I feel lost, always.

Does time run fast,

or do we?

I'm in my twenties,

and I've been stuck somewhere.

When was the last time,

we laughed out loud?

Is this the age,

to feed our impulses,

or a give-and-take,

that leads us to a path?

There are more doubts than clouds,

consuming my head 24/7.

Figuring each one out,

only leads us to more uncertainty.

Like a dead fish,

on a flowing river,

we sometimes wish,

to live again, to be reborn.

Our shoulders bear,

new weights day by day.

Those weights differ,

in colour and shape for each of us.

Job, marriage, and degree,

are goals of many.

Artist, Entrepreneur, and peace-maker,

are the determination of the rest.

What weight would you choose,

to bear, when choosing never an option?

The only place where I belong,

is where my heart belongs.

There are many friends,

to advise you, yet you shan't listen.

Some tell you, you're running out of time,

While others say, you've enough time.

The only timeline worth choosing,

is the one your heart belongs to.

I'm in my twenties,

and I am not a dead fish.

When life closes every door on you,

wouldn't you want to build one?

About the Competition

The Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar celebrates diverse voices across the globe, offering a platform for writers to share their unique perspectives. This prestigious competition invites participants to express their creativity and engage with audiences through the written word, fostering a vibrant community of literary talent.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Najah Ilham for sharing "I'm in my Twenties" with the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your work offers a profound glimpse into the complexities of youth, and we appreciate your contribution to the creative arts community.

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.