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 a deeply moving piece titled "Number* 1" in the Poetry category of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This poignant work explores the complex emotions and struggles of being the eldest child, highlighting themes of identity, expectation, and emotional burden. Rahman's submission invites readers to reflect on the intricate dynamics within familial relationships.

About the Work

"Number* 1" delves into the internal conflict experienced by the eldest child, who feels like a vessel for unfulfilled dreams and expectations. The poem's somber tone and raw honesty create a powerful narrative, emphasizing feelings of isolation, neglect, and unreciprocated love. Through vivid imagery and a heartfelt voice, Habiba Rahman captures the essence of a life overshadowed by others' aspirations.

Number* 1

Original Submission by Habiba Rahman

Number* 1

I was born first ,

As an empty frame ,

You 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 your wishes , And everything you never tried I don't have my own thoughts, I'm just your 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,

Why the eldest is so rude ,

Might aswell try and reflect back On the things they never got to do , A child but treated like a sack Why do you 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,

You can't change it ,

The pain and all the suffering,

Can't change what you did with sorry , So much you'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 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform celebrating diverse voices in literature. It encourages writers from around the world to express their unique perspectives through poetry and creative writing. This competition fosters a global dialogue, highlighting the power of words to connect and inspire.

We extend our gratitude to Habiba Rahman for her poignant contribution, "Number* 1," to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her exploration of the challenges faced by the eldest child resonates deeply and enriches the thematic tapestry of this year's entries. Thank you, Habiba, for sharing your powerful voice with us.

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.