Love Goes Quiet - By Atheena Tiara A. Talatala

Written By: Atheena Tiara A. Talatala

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In her evocative poem "Love Goes Quiet," Atheena Tiara A. Talatala delves into the profound fear of losing the connections that make love tangible. Participating in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, Atheena explores the broad nature of love and the essential role of sensory connections in defining our experiences and identities. Her work resonates with the competition's celebration of diverse voices and creative expression.

About the Work

"Love Goes Quiet" thoughtfully examines the theme of connection, particularly the sensory experiences that bring love to life. Atheena's writing captures the essence of how sight, sound, and other senses weave into our emotional fabric. The poem's introspective tone and vivid imagery invite readers to reflect on the importance of these connections, and the void left when they fade.

Love Goes Quiet

Original Submission by Atheena Tiara A. Talatala

Love Goes Quiet

By: Atheena Tiara A. Talatala

“One of my greatest fears is when love goes quiet.”

Love is… broad.

Felt for anything—a person, an animal, a place, a passion, a career, or even a choice.

But, what makes love feel real?

Well… it's a connection.

Fundamentally, a connection through sight, taste, touch, smell, and hearing.

We can hold a loved one's hand,

savor a meal with friends,

recognize a familiar face,

or breathe in a scent that brings someone back to us.

However… Hearing is what I hold dearest.

Without it, voices of the people who shaped my life,

The familiar call when I arrive home, the comfort of songs that somehow feel new every time they begin,

even the sound of my own voice, reminding me that I am still here—

Would be forgotten.

Yes, I could still speak.

But, truly, would my voice mean anything if I could never hear it?

If I were to lose my hearing,

The unbearable silence,

the familiar that would slowly fade,

Being physically present,

would begin to feel like being alone.

Only thoughts—

and silence.

Nothing speaking back.

Nothing carrying another person's presence.

I would lose a part of myself.

Because I am what I am around me

I am the conversations I have with the people I love.

I am the music that moves me each note and rhythm.

I am the sound that greets me each morning.

I am the laughter, the voices, the ordinary noises that remind me I am alive.

Without them,

who would I be?

Because I have lost everything that I am… Love is broad.

But to me, love becomes real through the connections we create—

the voices remembered,

the songs shared,

the sounds that become part of who we are.

I wouldn't know what would remain. And perhaps that is what I fear most.

Not silence itself—but when love goes quiet.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar showcases remarkable talent from around the world. It provides a platform for poets and writers to share their unique voices and perspectives. The competition celebrates creativity and the power of words to inspire and connect people across cultures.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Atheena Tiara A. Talatala for sharing "Love Goes Quiet" with us. Her participation in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 enriches the tapestry of voices that make this event special. Thank you, Atheena, for your poignant exploration of love and connection.

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.