NO. 55 - By Zoe-Lin Akkiah

Written By: Zoe-Lin Akkiah

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Zoe-Lin Akkiah, under the writing name "No. 55," shares a deeply introspective poem titled "NO. 55" as part of the Poetry category. This submission is a poignant contribution to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, inviting readers to reflect on the themes of childhood, memory, and the concept of home. Through her poetic lens, Akkiah offers a narrative that resonates with the universal longing for the past, enriched by personal and familial echoes.

About the Work

"NO. 55" by Zoe-Lin Akkiah evokes a nostalgic journey through the corridors of childhood memories. The poem is rich with imagery, depicting remnants of a bygone era through vivid snapshots of crayon drawings, family dynamics, and the transitional nature of a once-familiar home. With a tone that balances wistfulness and acceptance, Akkiah masterfully captures the essence of longing for the imperfect yet cherished days of youth.

No. 55

Original Submission by Zoe-Lin Akkiah

NO. 55

Zoё-Lin Akkiah

The number 55 hammered on what once was pink paint peeling off

Remnants of my younger years remain on the walls

Crayon etchings and stick figurines

Dolls with new hairdos and mismatched couture

And stacks of cassettes and scratched-up DVDs

I see the fallen leaves and dead roots that once marked my family tree

The echoes and memories that remain with me

The fragrant flowers

The smell of spices

The bright blaring of a box TV

And my favourite cartoons on at 3

Fingers aimed like ammunition at the jugular of my kin

Voices tearing through the calm of the night

Lulled me to sleep, and woke me up from my dreams.

Nothing is left of my childhood home.

Its walls, now an unfamiliar, sterile beige

No longer feel like the abode I once knew

My home, now a museum of all I once loved and feared,

And yet I yearn for those perfectly imperfect days.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar celebrates the diverse voices and creative expressions of writers from around the world. This esteemed competition provides a platform for poets and writers to showcase their work, fostering a global community of literary talent and innovation.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Zoe-Lin Akkiah for her evocative contribution, "NO. 55," to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her work beautifully encapsulates the spirit of reflection and nostalgia, enriching the tapestry of this international literary event. We look forward to witnessing her continued journey in 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.