In a crowded world - By Jamilah Reid

Written By: Jamilah Reid

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Jamilah Reid presents "In a crowded world," a compelling piece featured in the Poetry category of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This introspective poem delves into the paradox of loneliness amidst billions, exploring themes of love, humanity, and self-reflection in the midst of a bustling world. Reid's work offers a profound commentary on the human condition, resonating with the shared experiences of individuals navigating the complexities of modern life.

About the Work

"In a crowded world" by Jamilah Reid is a poignant exploration of solitude and connection. Through vivid imagery and contemplative prose, the poem reflects on the challenges of finding true love and understanding in a bustling world. Reid adeptly contrasts the chaos of daily life with the introspective search for meaning, evoking a sense of longing and introspection that resonates deeply with readers.

In a crowded world

Original Submission by Jamilah Reid

In a crowded world - Jamilah Reid

We live in a crowded world where it's so easy to feel lonely.

8 Billion people yet God is the only one who is always by my side.

I don't want to bother my friends, I don't know when it'll be too much...yeah in a crowded world.

In a crowded world it's so easy to get lost but so hard to find true love.

True understanding, true trust, dedication and commitment...yes in a crowded world.

In a crowded world where minds are plagued with sadness, hearts are hopeless in humanity and sometimes even themselves.

What is happening , why do friends become less with age?

We can't make time to live but make time to disagree, argue, belittle, berate and hate... in a crowded world.

The world is crowded but lives go so fast...it's true that, "as one gone a next man bawn" but do we cherish the seeds,see them unearthed before seeking to lay them back into the earth?

Some are roses, some are thorns.

Life is really a garden, like a garden… maybe the greatest of them all.

You pick who you tend to, water who you must, trample whomever to get by,

throw some in the fire to keep yourself warm...yes in a crowded world all that fire yet,

we're still cold.

So cold that maybe it is a forest with wild gardens everywhere, I mean every man for himself. Tall, strong, wrong, shaded, green, mean, orange, healthy yet still rooted... fibrous-ly.

All stemming yet not pollinating...in a crowded world.

It's so easy to be swallowed, I wonder how I haven't choked.

So much toxicity, so much masculinity, femininity but no... humanity.

In a crowded world where wars are waged and lives are plagued, plagued by sunlight.

The sunlight of the ecosystem of selfishness of rivers which are still, yet run deep with blood and resources while standing like mangroves...spreading, unnoticed, stink with fear and survival.

Is today my day, in a crowded world?

Cherish the moments, I dare say,

cherish you, cherish me, regardless of our symbiosis...

In a crowded world.

Jamilah Reid

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar celebrates diverse voices from around the world, offering a platform for poets and writers to share their unique perspectives. This esteemed competition highlights a wide array of literary works, fostering creativity and encouraging thought-provoking discussions through the art of written expression.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Jamilah Reid for her moving contribution, "In a crowded world," to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her insightful exploration of solitude and human connection offers a rich tapestry of reflection and emotion, inviting readers to ponder the intricacies of our shared journey in a bustling world.

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.