Playing Pretend - By Aaliyah Reese Nadar

Written By: Aaliyah Reese Nadar

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Aaliyah Reese Nadar presents her evocative poem, "Playing Pretend," as part of the Poetry category in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. In this introspective piece, Aaliyah delves into the complexities of selflessness, identity, and the emotional battles one faces within. Her work contributes a profound voice to the competition, inviting readers to reflect on the often unseen struggles that shape our lives.

About the Work

"Playing Pretend" is a powerful exploration of the emotional turmoil associated with loss and the pressure of societal expectations. Through vivid imagery and poignant reflections, Aaliyah Reese Nadar captures the essence of feeling invisible amidst personal turmoil. The poem's tone is deeply contemplative, addressing themes of self-worth, purpose, and the silent battles individuals face daily.

Playing Pretend

Original Submission by Aaliyah Reese Nadar

I try to be the selfless person everyone sees

Putting before myself everyone’s needs

But in fact I am exhausted

Sometimes the next breath doesn’t even seem possible

When you’re looking over a cliff

I think I’m fooling myself

That I’m making something out of nothing

But when void becomes your friend

There is no such thing as playing pretend

Pretending that loss hasn’t become a normality

Pretending that one-sided friendships are all you have

Pretending that no matter what anyone says

You are nothing but an empty vessel as you lose parts of your soul, your identity and even what may be your destiny

People “wish” for many things

And it would be a lie to deny that I am one of them

However depressing it seems

My wish would be to become completely non-existent with no consequence of hell

I believe that everyone has a purpose

I included

But it becomes hard to see

When tears blur your vision

And you seem to walk around with invisible stained cheeks

Because no one sees your pain or hears your screams

But I know the One who does

He is why I continue to live and breathe ~AaliyahReese

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar celebrates diverse voices in poetry and creative writing. This platform provides participants from around the world an opportunity to share their unique stories and perspectives. The competition fosters creativity and expression, offering a stage for writers to connect with a global audience.

We extend our gratitude to Aaliyah Reese Nadar for her heartfelt contribution, "Playing Pretend," to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her exploration of identity and inner struggles resonates deeply, and we appreciate her sharing this profound piece with us. Thank you, Aaliyah, for your courage and creativity.

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.