'insān - By Basheq Tarifi

Written By: Basheq Tarifi

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Basheq Tarifi, writing under the name "insan," offers a profound exploration of human nature in their poem 'insān.' Submitted to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, this piece delves into the themes of memory and forgetfulness, reflecting on the essence of what it means to be human. Through the lens of the Arabic language and its intrinsic ties to forgetfulness, Tarifi invites readers to ponder the inevitable fading of memories and the persistence of human connections.

About the Work

In 'insān,' Basheq Tarifi artfully weaves the theme of memory's transient nature. The poem evokes a sense of nostalgia and introspection, using imagery of forgotten touches and fading memories. Tarifi's poetic style is both contemplative and evocative, drawing the reader into a meditative reflection on the ephemeral yet enduring aspects of human relationships. The piece's emotional depth is heightened by its rhythmic cadence, leaving a lasting impression on the reader.

insan

Original Submission by Basheq Tarifi

'insān

to be human is to forget:

the Arabic word for human is 'insān,

rooted in yansā, to forget.

this is not a revelation, but something

you may have known and forgotten

so I cannot hold you

accountable when you no longer recall

the shape of my fingertips on your hand

or the crypts and furrows of my iris

that once nested in your mind's eye,

decomposing now in some crypt or coffin

painted their misremembered shade of brown

to be human is to forget;

but is it not also to persist?

your indelible embrace

around me like the beaming winter sun

melting me into everything that you are

your echoing laugh in the chambers

of my heart, reaching my throat already formed

still I accept the melting

pot of shame and relief that stirs

when I stumble

across the feel of your hair

(or what remains of the memory of it)

your evasive embrace escaping through

the gaps of everything we almost had

perhaps then, to be human is a reminder:

the ephemeral endures despite itself –

and one day, though you have forgotten,

you may yet walk into a room with eyes closed

and feel the winter sun, beaming

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, is a prestigious platform celebrating diverse voices in poetry and creative writing. This event showcases a wide array of themes and styles, providing participants an opportunity to share their unique perspectives with a global audience. It stands as a testament to the power of words in connecting individuals across boundaries and cultures.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Basheq Tarifi for sharing 'insān' with us in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your poignant exploration of memory and human nature enriches the tapestry of voices in this event. We look forward to seeing more of your insightful work and are grateful for your contribution to the world of poetry.

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.