Sohnemann (A son) - By Anirban Sen

Written By: Anirban Sen

Category: Poetry

Competition: Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Anirban Sen, writing under the name Sohnemann (A son), presents a thought-provoking piece titled "Sohnemann" in the Poetry category of the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This introspective poem delves into themes of memory, identity, and the quest for wholeness, offering readers an opportunity to reflect on these universal human experiences.

About the Work

"Sohnemann (A son)" is a reflective poem that explores the tension between abstract thoughts and the desire for concrete understanding. Through evocative imagery and a contemplative tone, Anirban Sen questions the idea of perfection and symmetry, pondering the implications of seeking wholeness. This introspective journey invites readers to consider the complexities of identity and the nature of winning and losing in life.

Sohnemann (A son)

Original Submission by Anirban Sen

Sohnemann (A son)

Today, yesterday, and days passed-not in memory,

But more like a fresh touch of memory, still fresh, blooming, fragrant.

Always trying to reconcile, but lacking. What is lacking?

It fears the lack, not feeling it to be constructed as a whole,

But rather leaves it untouched, unbothered, clustered, fragmented, and abstract.

Why does everything need to be in a perfect circle or in symmetry?

That son, who has the idea of a circular father-does he want it to be concrete?

I doubt, not myself, but the ideas of myself.

Thoughts, sometimes, make me feel: what would it be like to have a circular father, rather than how it is?

Oh, I confess to myself-what if the wholeness pushes me into fragments?

So I stop-not to construct, but to feel the abstract.

This, sometimes, is left as it is-not just for lack,

But for a wholeness which it might lack in totality.

I spread my wings, just to land on the shore,

Just to dive down into the heart, which I know is always open.

But every time I try, something, sometimes, forbids me, holds me.

I don’t know. Nor do I try-or I tried and failed, so I stop trying.

Not to feel lost, but to win. Does loss mean it should be placed

Just opposite? No. I wonder, is there anyone who never loses?

To win, I might be wrong to get it right.

About the Competition

The Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious event that celebrates the art of writing in its various forms. It invites participants from around the world to showcase their talent in poetry, short story, essay, and creative writing categories. This competition is a platform for writers to express their creativity and share their unique perspectives with a global audience.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Anirban Sen for sharing "Sohnemann (A son)" with us in the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your reflective exploration of memory and identity offers a profound insight into the human experience. We appreciate your contribution and look forward to seeing more of your work 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.