Reasons - By Khawlah binti Khairul Azli

Written By: Khawlah binti Khairul Azli

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Khawlah binti Khairul Azli presents "Reasons," a contemplative poem featured in the Poetry category of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This annual event celebrates the art of words and the power of storytelling, bringing together voices from around the world. Khawlah's poem explores the complex themes of life, growth, and mortality, inviting readers to reflect on the journey from birth to the inevitable end.

About the Work

"Reasons" by Khawlah is a profound exploration of life's stages, from childhood innocence to the reflections of old age. The poem's tone is introspective, capturing the bittersweet reality of existence with vivid imagery and poignant metaphors. Khawlah skillfully weaves a narrative that prompts readers to ponder their own paths and the unyielding passage of time, leaving a lasting impression with its universal message.

Reasons

Original Submission by Khawlah binti Khairul Azli

Reasons

♪ ————— ♪

By Khawlah

"Sometimes the bitter is the better."

Life.

Nine months to shape,

Two years to speak,

Five when you started reaching things,

Seven when you rode your first bike.

Half.

A teen who always burns out,

An adult who's all stressed about,

This taste of life is always bitter,

Once a kid who's a full-time joker.

Near.

I didn't know it could be lighter,

Not just your stress,

But also, the hair colour,

And they seem to wrinkle,

Not just your freckling skin,

But the stars also twinkle,

Like the ones that leaves you to think,

"What will I be if I'm not here?"

Death.

Sixty years of breathing,

All came down to seven minutes,

The minute of memories,

A minute you recall what you've once called 'home'

Of all the laughter and tears,

Of all the things you've ever become,

And all the things not everyone will hear.

"And every soul shall taste death."

It outnumbered,

For every written reason,

For why you shall taste it when it comes to you,

And never when you come for it.

With every love,

And every reason,

— Khawlah 𝜗ৎ

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a distinguished platform that celebrates creative expression through the written word. This competition welcomes participants globally, encouraging both emerging and established writers to share their unique perspectives and stories. With diverse categories and a commitment to nurturing talent, it stands as a testament to the power of literature in connecting human experiences.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Khawlah binti Khairul Azli for sharing "Reasons" with us. Your thoughtful exploration of life's journey enhances the depth of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Thank you for enriching the literary world with your distinctive voice and perspective.

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.