Seven Minutes Before Heaven - By Rosie Lee

Written By: Rosie Lee

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the realm of poetic reflection, Rosie Lee's "Seven Minutes Before Heaven" emerges as a profound exploration of life's fleeting moments. Submitted to the prestigious Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, this poem invites readers to ponder the final seven minutes when one's brain relives the greatest memories. Through vivid imagery and emotional depth, Lee captures the essence of human experience, evoking a poignant examination of life's cherished memories and unspoken regrets.

About the Work

"Seven Minutes Before Heaven" delves into the intimate moments that define a lifetime, using evocative imagery and a reflective tone. The poem contemplates what memories might surface in the final moments, weaving together scenes of familial love, childhood innocence, and the bittersweet nature of unvoiced regrets. Rosie Lee's lyrical style and emotive language create a tapestry of nostalgia and introspection, inviting readers to reflect on their own lives and the moments that truly matter.

Seven Minutes Before Heaven

Original Submission by Rosie Lee

Seven Minutes Before Heaven

by Rosie Lee

They say that when you die, your brain lives for another seven minutes—

Reliving seven minutes of the greatest memories in your life.

What would your last seven minutes be like?

Maybe I’d remember the scent of midnight rain,

Or puddles glimmering on pavements.

Playing in the river of droplets,

Dancing to the whispers of thunder.

Perhaps I’d recall the way my mother called my name,

Like a song to be cherished and boasted.

Swaying alongside every heartbeat,

Gathering like breaths in the frosty air.

Maybe I’d see the four swings in my backyard,

All but one rocking in unison.

Reaching hands that seek together,

Holding them for supposedly ever.

I think I’d relish the sunlight beaming through the window,

Bathe in its warmth and quiet love.

Let the heat fan my face,

Let the sun-kissed freckles dot my arms.

But then I would come to wonder:

Would I hear the words I could never take back?

Would I taste bitterness I didn’t dare say aloud?

Would I feel the touch I yearned for once more?

Seven minutes of memories, mistakes, maybes,

Seven minutes of would’ve, could’ve, should’ve.

Would’ve

Could’ve

Should’ve

Would’ve loved deeper,

Could’ve asked questions,

Should’ve spoken louder.

All these things I once had time to do,

Turning into bitter regret settling in my bones…

If only I had seven more minutes, I would say—

The words that never—

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar showcases the talents of writers worldwide, offering a platform for poets and storytellers to share their unique voices. This competition brings together diverse narratives and poetic expressions, celebrating the art of writing in its many forms. Participants from various backgrounds contribute their works, enriching the global conversation through the power of words.

We extend our gratitude to Rosie Lee for sharing "Seven Minutes Before Heaven" with the world through the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her thought-provoking exploration of life's pivotal moments resonates deeply, leaving a lasting impact on readers. Thank you, Rosie, for your contribution to this celebration of poetic expression 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.