Lonely Men, Lonely Windows - By Jonathan Isaac Stephney

Written By: Jonathan Isaac Stephney

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Jonathan Isaac Stephney presents his evocative poem "Lonely Men, Lonely Windows" as part of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This work delves into the themes of isolation and the paradox of proximity in urban life. Through vivid imagery, Stephney captures the essence of loneliness experienced within the confines of apartment living, where individuals remain close yet worlds apart. His participation in this prestigious competition highlights his unique voice in contemporary poetry.

About the Work

"Lonely Men, Lonely Windows" paints a poignant picture of solitude amidst urban density. The poem's mood is reflective, capturing the contradiction of human closeness and emotional distance. Stephney uses vivid imagery, such as the "Thousand-Yard stare," to convey the deep sense of disconnection. The poem explores themes of anonymity, routine, and the unseen stories behind each window, inviting readers to reflect on their own experiences of isolation and connection.

Lonely Men, Lonely Windows

Original Submission by Jonathan Isaac Stephney

Lonely Men, Lonely Windows

I look across the street and see

A strange contradiction.

All these men in a shared

Apartment building,

Few feet apart with just

Concrete slabs, wooden panels

Rebar, insulation, bricks, air

And glass separating them.

They all look so close to each other

Yet every day I see at least one of them

Peering out their windows

With a Thousand-Yard stare,

Lost.

Always with a drink in hand,

Always sunk in their couches,

Always with the glow of their TVs,

Highlighting their loneliness.

There are always distant sounds of

Partying, kids playing, drinks clinking

Arguing, murmuring, and sex;

Close enough to be heard but too

Hidden away to see.

I don't know any of their stories,

I don't know their names.

Sometimes I wonder if they were

Always like that.

I wonder what their lives were

Before all of this.

I wonder where it all went wrong,

And sometimes I find myself wondering

If any of them are looking at me.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a renowned event celebrating the power of written expression. It invites participants from across the globe to showcase their literary talents in various categories, including poetry, short stories, and essays. This competition serves as a platform for writers to share their voices and engage with a diverse audience, fostering a vibrant community of creative minds.

Thank you, Jonathan Isaac Stephney, for sharing "Lonely Men, Lonely Windows" with us. Your participation in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 offers readers a compelling exploration of urban isolation and human connection. We appreciate your contribution and look forward to seeing more of your thought-provoking work 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.