Reflections Through the Screen - By Vikaashinee Sukumaran Satish

Written By: Vikaashinee Sukumaran Satish

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

We are pleased to feature "Reflections Through the Screen," a captivating poem by Vikaashinee Sukumaran Satish, in the Poetry category of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This unique work employs the reverse poem format to delve into the contrasting influences of social media on modern society. The poem invites readers to explore the dual nature of this digital phenomenon, reflecting both its positive and negative aspects.

About the Work

"Reflections Through the Screen" invites readers to engage with the duality of social media through its innovative reverse poem structure. Vikaashinee Sukumaran Satish masterfully juxtaposes the perceived benefits and underlying drawbacks of digital interaction, using vivid imagery and introspective narrative. The poem's structure allows for a dynamic exploration of how social media shapes personal and cultural perspectives, challenging readers to consider their own relationships with technology.

Reflections Through the Screen

Original Submission by Vikaashinee Sukumaran Satish

Reflections Through the Screen

By Vikaashinee Sukumaran Satish

This poem is a reverse poem. A reverse poem is a poem which carries one meaning or theme when read from top to bottom, and another meaning when read from bottom to top.

My poem, 'Reflections Through the Screen', carries two themes:

* When read from top to bottom, the main theme is that social media is a normal part of culture, and a positive addition to people's lives.

* When read from bottom to top, the main theme is that social media is a negative part of society and can alter people's perspectives negatively.

Poem:

(Read from top to bottom to get the positive perspective of social media and how it’s a good part of society)

Social numbers have become an indispensable aspect of our life

As we are scrolling endlessly on our phones

My happiness is curated

Posts of friends getting together at the trending café

Posts of colleagues at the beach on a sun-drenched holiday

Posts of celebrities indulging in a luxurious getaway

Then, I look at others

They’re here, but I still feel as though I am detached from the rest of the world

At least I get likes; people admire me, right?

Every day, every night

Filters and settings are shields for my imperfections

The filters I use beautify my sometimes imperfect complexion

The settings I use make the most lifeless locations appear perfectly picturesque

The masking tool I use cuts out any elements that may diminish my image

But

Others don't see my flaws and fears

Just a part of my typical routine

I'd do anything just to be seen

By societies immersed in screens

These influencers I follow are prominent on multiple platforms!

Putting a test to the latest trend,

Filming dance reels to popular tunes,

Always pushing to make their content catch the eye of the crowd

Always pushing to make their voice the most compelling in the silence

Always on social media

Overlooking the people who appreciate me for who I am, whatever the circumstance

The hearts, the thumbs-ups,

They are cramming into my head, until they swallow me and close my eyes to what matters most

Am I really who people think I am?

(Now read from bottom to top to get the negative perspective of social media and the impact it creates.)

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar celebrates the art of writing across diverse genres. This prestigious event brings together writers from around the world, providing a platform for both emerging and established voices to share their creative expressions. Participants are invited to showcase their talents, contributing to a vibrant tapestry of global literary culture.

Thank you, Vikaashinee Sukumaran Satish, for sharing "Reflections Through the Screen" with us in this year's competition. Your insightful exploration of social media's dual nature offers a thought-provoking addition to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. We appreciate your contribution and look forward to witnessing your continued literary journey.

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.