In a Mind's Eye - By Francesca Pelli

Written By: FRANCESCA PELLI

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Francesca Pelli brings a serene and vivid depiction to life in her poem "In a Mind's Eye," a part of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Crafted with the precision of an artist's brush, Pelli's work invites readers to sit beside her on a rock in Lagrasse, France, and absorb the natural beauty and tranquility of the scene. This poetry submission elegantly captures the essence of a moment in time, inviting the audience to explore the depth and texture of the landscape through words.

About the Work

"In a Mind's Eye" beautifully explores the theme of nature's timeless and tranquil beauty. Through detailed imagery and a meditative tone, Francesca Pelli invites readers to experience the picturesque landscape of Lagrasse. The poem's vivid descriptions bring to life the colors, sounds, and sensations of the setting, creating a deeply immersive experience. Pelli's skillful use of imagery and her reflective style convey a sense of peace and continuity with the natural world.

In a Mind's Eye

Original Submission by FRANCESCA PELLI

In a Mind’s Eye Lagrasse, France

October 20th, 2014

If I were a writer, I'd be able to put the picture I'm sitting in into words. I'd sit you here, on this rock, on my right, to take in what I see through the letters in your eyes.

You'd feel the hardness of this thick, grey boulder under your bum, and its coolness under your bare feet as we sit in the shade. The surface is mottled with spots of bright, white lichen stains and dark crevices of time that are the pathway of transit for the single file of black ants as they carry their daily bread home.

We're looking at the river as it flows from our west on the right to our east through one enormous arch towards another. You'd be able to hear the notes of the water as it gurgles quietly over the little dip formed by some large stones in its path as it follows the sun downstream ~ strangely, away from where it will set.

The level is low and the whitened pebbles in all their sizes are exposed to the afternoon breeze. A small black-and-white bird with a tail longer than its body bounces up and down, trots and flip flaps across the smooth tops. He is joined by another, and together, they chirrup and chase each other in tight, low circles, skimming the tiny yellow flowers on the opposite bank.

This side of the river is the widest, and if I were a painter, I'd be able to capture all the autumn colours in front of me with a brush : the squatter, frothy green iced with yellow, spread most generously along here; the sharper ,drier copper crispness in a narrower, taller line closer to the water ~ caught half in the shade while reddening in the warmth of red October.

I could possibly manage to copy the arched dark semi-circle of flat stones lying against the river bed ~ the highest point just short of a low-slung, dense dark green plant whose leaves are bowed down as though drinking.

I'd just about catch the concentric circles that shiny little jumping fish made as it fell back into its liquid golden safety net after an insect attempt.

I might even find a way to etch the lines of the rectangular windows set amongst the blocks of grey-brown medieval stones squared by history and now, watching the same centuries-old sun as when they were first raised.

Just like us.

Text and photo © Francesca Pelli

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, presented by Hashtag Kalakar, showcases remarkable literary talents from around the world. This prestigious platform celebrates creativity and the power of the written word, providing writers an opportunity to share their unique voices and stories. Participants explore various themes and genres, contributing to a vibrant tapestry of global narratives.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Francesca Pelli for her captivating submission, "In a Mind's Eye," to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her ability to paint vivid images with words offers readers a moment of reflection and connection with nature. We appreciate her contribution and look forward to her continued literary journey.

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.