Interlinked Souls or Merely Jesting - By Dominique McLean

Written By: Dominique McLean

Category: Personal Essay

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Dominique McLean's personal essay, "Interlinked Souls or Merely Jesting," is a contemplative exploration of relationships and self-awareness. Featured in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, this essay delves into the recurring cycle of connections, questioning the authenticity of deep conversations and the allure of new relationships. McLean's work is a profound reflection on the human desire for connection and the self-deceptions we embrace along the way.

About the Work

In "Interlinked Souls or Merely Jesting," Dominique McLean examines the themes of self-deception and emotional cycles within personal relationships. The essay's introspective tone invites readers to explore the dichotomy between genuine connection and the illusions we often create. McLean's narrative style is engaging, with a keen observation of human interactions, inviting readers to reflect on their own experiences of love and connection.

Interlinked Souls or Merely Jesting

Original Submission by Dominique McLean

Interlinked souls or merely jesting

There will always be a new person. No matter if you dwell on the past or focus on the future, someone new will always find you. But, every talking stage comes with false promises and lies to see each other. Just two individuals who claim that they are destined to be, even though they met just 3 days ago.

Well, I don't relate, but it is always apparent when someone thinks of me. I’ve just always been able to read the room and know that I’ve piqued that person's interest. However, I pretend. I pretend to believe otherwise, I hold on to the words of oblivion, and assume that we are speaking as friends.

Because as the conversation deepens, I realize this is always how it is. The conversation becomes serious as we deceive ourselves into thinking that deep discussions mean interlinked souls and a natural connection. While it's true that you can't hold a meaningful conversation with everyone, sometimes, it's easy to. Sometimes, the talk isn't even meaningful at all, It just holds onto the idea that it is. False words to wipe away the tears that I've cried, and a hoax. A lie, suggests that even though I claim to be a bad person, it's always— “I will stay and enjoy the journey while it lasts.”

It's a constant cycle, really. Your mind just tricks you into believing that this person will be different and revivified. Mine does that. But sometimes there will be a moment when I stop to wonder, after smiling at something silly they said, haven't I seen this before? Haven't I gone through this, and don't I know how this ends? Do I believe that this person will be different from the rest, and save me from the constant cycle of “deep connections.”

I often find myself questioning my inaction. If I'm fully aware of the truth, why do I hesitate to take the necessary steps? Why don’t I sever ties with this person, especially when I can foresee the inevitable consequences of their deceit and empty assurances? The emotional toll from their lies and the lies i tell myself, and my own lies weighs heavily on me, and yet I remain stuck. It’s frustrating to acknowledge that I know how this story ends with disappointment and heartbreak yet, I still choose to stay connected, caught in a cycle of false hope. So, I believe it's just for fun.

Just to jest, just to trick my mind into believing one day, I won’t be disappointed, and I will find the one destined for my future. I’m willing to engage in this journey with you, fully aware of the ways we might cause each other pain. Despite that, I’ll believe we share a deep connection, intertwined by a red string that represents our bond.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious event celebrating diverse voices in literature. It provides a platform for writers worldwide to share their unique perspectives and creative talents, fostering a vibrant community of literary enthusiasts and creators.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Dominique McLean for sharing "Interlinked Souls or Merely Jesting" with us. Your participation in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 enriches the tapestry of voices in our literary community. We look forward to more insightful 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.