Row, Row, Row - By Akithya De Costa

Written By: Akithya De Costa

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Akithya De Costa, a participant in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, brings us a rhythmic and evocative piece titled "Row, Row, Row." In this poetry entry, Akithya guides us through a tranquil yet invigorating journey of rowing at dawn. As the sun rises, the poem captures the essence of nature intertwined with human persistence. This piece invites readers to experience the harmonious relationship between the rower and the river.

About the Work

"Row, Row, Row" by Akithya De Costa is a vivid portrayal of a solitary rowing journey. The poem's rhythmic beat mirrors the strokes of the oar, creating a meditative mood. Rich in imagery, it paints the serene transition from dawn to dusk, capturing the sun's relentless pursuit and the rower's determined spirit. The poem's gentle yet powerful narrative encapsulates the beauty and challenges of the natural world, leaving a lasting impression of tranquility and resolve.

Row, Row, Row

Original Submission by Akithya De Costa

Row, Row, Row

Row, row, row,

Row steady, row slow,

As the sun peeps over the horizon,

And a gust of wind flies in.

A blistered hand caresses

The soft, rubber grip,

With a roughened tenderness,

Guiding the boat on a steady trip.

Huff, puff, I take a stroke,

My heart beats steadily, unprovoked.

The sun stalks me, never leaving my side;

My body, glazed in sweat, shimmers in its light.

Row, row, row,

Row steady, row fast,

The boat glides across as dragonflies zoom past,

And the sun hangs low.

The sky glows orange now,

As I draw the last few strokes.

A cool wind serenades me, nice and slow,

As my journey comes to a close.

It’s dark now, I come to a stop.

The river goes still.

Done for today,

But tomorrow, once again, I will.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform celebrating the power of the written word. This competition invites poets and writers from around the world to showcase their creativity and passion. Participants engage in a global dialogue through their work, sharing unique perspectives and narratives that enrich the literary landscape.

We extend our gratitude to Akithya De Costa for participating in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 with the poem "Row, Row, Row." Akithya's work beautifully captures the essence of rowing and nature's embrace. We look forward to seeing more of Akithya's creative endeavors in the future.

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.