Shoes - By Caroline Gron

Written By: Caroline Gron

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In her poignant poem "Shoes," Caroline Gron offers a heartfelt reflection on the preciousness of time and the simple act of pausing for loved ones. As part of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, this work is a testament to the profound messages that can be conveyed through verse. Gron's poetry invites readers to reconsider the moments that shape our relationships and the inherent value found in slowing down for one another.

About the Work

"Shoes" delves into the nuanced theme of time and its influence on human relationships. Through vivid imagery and emotional depth, Caroline Gron presents a narrative where stopping to tie a shoe becomes an act of love and understanding. This piece skillfully juxtaposes the hurried nature of life with the healing power of presence, reminding us of the comfort found in small gestures of care.

Shoes

Original Submission by Caroline Gron

Shoes:

She bends over to tie her shoe,

I stop walking to wait for her,

She stands up.

Even though her shoe remains untied.

“I don't want to slow you down”

“Stopping is an inconvenience”

She was raised in a family where time is everything,

To be late is a death sentence,

To slow down is only to prolonging the torture.

But what she doesn’t see is what stopping means to me,

Stopping is not a burden,

Stopping is not trouble,

Stopping means love,

Stopping is saying that she is worth the time,

Stopping heals the younger version of me,

The one that no one waited for.

I want to stop while you tie your shoes,

Because there was once a little girl who wished more than anything,

That someone would stop for her,

That someone would wait for her.

No one should be denied that small comfort.

So now when I see your shoe untied,

I pause to tie my own.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a celebration of artistic expression, bringing together voices from around the world. This prestigious event encourages participants to share their unique perspectives through poetry, short stories, and creative writing, fostering a global community of writers and poets.

Thank you, Caroline Gron, for sharing your evocative poem "Shoes" with us in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your work beautifully captures the essence of love and the importance of pausing for others, offering readers a moment of reflection and empathy.

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.