Love beyond reality - By Ilhaam. K. Patel

Written By: Ilhaam. K. Patel

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the evocative poem "Love beyond reality," Ilhaam K. Patel offers readers a heartfelt exploration of love and its changing nature in modern times. This piece is part of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, showcasing a poignant reflection on the idealistic vision of romance and the dissonance felt in contemporary relationships. Through vivid imagery and emotional depth, the poem captures the essence of longing for a more genuine connection.

About the Work

Ilhaam K. Patel's "Love beyond reality" delves into the romanticized ideals of love that are often portrayed in movies and literature, contrasting them with the stark reality of modern relationships. The poem's tone is both nostalgic and contemplative, questioning the authenticity and depth of contemporary love. With a blend of longing and critique, it paints a vivid picture of emotional disillusionment, urging readers to reflect on their own expectations and experiences with love.

Love beyond reality

Original Submission by Ilhaam. K. Patel

Love beyond reality (21/05/2024)

By Ilhaam. K. Patel

Oh to be loved

By a real gentleman

Who never lies to you

And who's loyalty is never questioned

Where's the guy with the boom box

Standing outside my window

Playing our song through the speakers

Refusing to accept my "no"

On the dot, he's at my door

Picking me up at eight

With flowers in his hand

Ready for our first date

Where's the man I see in movies

And read about in books

Who would not only burn the world down for his girl

But would hurt any man who looks

He makes her a priority

Leaves everything when she calls

For every day that goes by

The more in love with her he falls

Where's the man who never let's her touch a door

Or carry anything but his hand

Who never splits the check

And all her encrypted codes he understands

What happened to the love letters

Where the guy portrays his love with proof

Now it's purely cat calling

Or women having to make the first move

Men want to be treated

In ways they don't even treat their girl

I guess I'm living in my head

Because we're on two different worlds

The world I wish to live in

Ended years before I was born

Before cheating was in fashion

And hearts were being effortlessly torn

Maybe I watch too many movies, read too many books

That explains my expectations being so high

But what's so wrong about wanting to be treated

The right way by a guy

I wish we could go to a time

When love is in the air

A time when trust comes easy

And heartbreak is rare

But in this generation

Believing in love is a curse

Because even when you try your best

You only receive the worst

If you stand outside

You can hear hearts breaking from left to right

Claiming to be in love

Then going off with someone else that same night

What is love

If you say it with no feeling

This simple word

Has drastically lost its meaning

If only we lived in a world

Without this brutality

Then maybe someday it wouldn't just be

Love beyond reality

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 is a distinguished platform by Hashtag Kalakar that celebrates diverse voices in literature. This international event invites participants to showcase their creativity and storytelling prowess, offering an opportunity for writers and poets to share their unique perspectives with a global audience. The competition highlights the power of words in connecting cultures and ideas, fostering a vibrant community of literary enthusiasts.

Thank you, Ilhaam K. Patel, for sharing your poignant poem "Love beyond reality" with us in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your exploration of the complexities of modern love offers a thought-provoking perspective that resonates deeply with readers. We appreciate your contribution and look forward to experiencing more of your insightful 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.