Number* 1 - By Habiba Rahman

Written By: Habiba Rahman

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Habiba Rahman, writing under the name Number* 1, presents her poignant poem "Number* 1" in the Poetry category of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This evocative piece delves into the complexities of identity and familial expectations, capturing the emotional weight carried by an individual caught in the web of unfulfilled dreams and projected desires.

About the Work

The poem "Number* 1" by Habiba Rahman is a heartfelt exploration of the struggles faced by an individual born into the role of fulfilling others' dreams. The work is rich in emotional depth, reflecting a sense of isolation and longing for autonomy. Through vivid imagery and a raw, honest voice, the poem uncovers themes of unmet expectations and the burden of being the eldest child.

Number* 1

Original Submission by Habiba Rahman

Number* 1

I was born first ,

As an empty frame ,

U filled it with your colours , And the goals you couldn't chase I never had it my way ,

It will never be my life ,

I'm just a projection of ur wishes , And everything u never tried I don't have my own thoughts, I'm just ur built machine ,

To hate ,to hurt ,

to put all your problems on me As if i were never a child,

To be born first is a curse ,

No one loves you like the second, Or the other ones

You're put up in the highest hopes , Never taught to win ,

Never treated like the others,

So much hatred from within

And if I ever had a choice,

To change my way of life ,

It would be when I was born,

I won't think more than twice , If u ever wondered,

Y the eldest is so rude ,

Might aswell try and reflect back On the things they never got to do , A child but treated like an sack Y do u think it's so easy to crude? A heart that was never loved the same , A soul never expressed,

A mind living in isolation,

From happiness and all the very best , And if I ever see someone out there, Who's kindness is not in words , What will you do?

I'll assume it's the eldest child , And most of the time it's true - All the time I waited , underrated Guess love was never fated, for me I'm filled with hatred,

U can't change it ,

The pain and all the suffering,

Can't change what u did with sorry ,

So much u've destroyed,

Can't erase the cracks from what I rebuilt Yes I'm filled with envy !

So much hate , jealousy!

Even money wouldn't change

the way I'm seen by you -

By: Habiba Rahman V.S

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, celebrates the diverse voices of writers and poets from around the world. This prestigious event offers a platform for participants to share their unique perspectives and showcase their literary talents. Open to various categories, the competition encourages creativity and expression in all its forms.

Thank you, Habiba Rahman, for sharing your moving poem "Number* 1" with us in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your contribution adds a profound layer to the conversation on identity and familial roles. We wish you all the best in your creative endeavors.

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.