Stillborn - By Aleena L

Written By: Aleena L

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Aleena L, writing under the name Stiilborn, presents a poignant piece titled "Stillborn" in the Poetry category of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her submission delves deep into themes of loss and resilience, capturing the raw emotional landscape that accompanies such experiences. With each line, Aleena invites readers into a world of profound introspection and emotional depth, reflecting the universal struggles faced in moments of vulnerability and strength.

About the Work

"Stillborn" by Aleena L is a powerful exploration of the human condition, articulated through vivid imagery and a haunting narrative style. The poem's mood is one of somber reflection, with a stark portrayal of emotional and physical stripping. Its literary style is both raw and evocative, inviting readers to engage with the layers of meaning embedded within its verses. Aleena masterfully captures the essence of grief and resilience, leaving a lasting impact on those who read her work.

Stiilborn

Original Submission by Aleena L

Stillborn

Stripped of bone,

the shells cascade against the warmth of your skin.

Stripped of loss,

I hold the loose flesh against the harrowing pain.

Stripped of dignity,

howling like juvenile men on leash, like ant crushed beneath Solomon’s feet.

I bow to you, I bow to my scraped skin, to my thinning limbs, the wilted eyelids that sleep at quarter past two - when the children are fast asleep, when my swelling belly is only half full.

I hold, I hold, I cup your tears and drain them down my pipes.

stripped.//

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious event that celebrates diverse voices from around the world. Participants showcase their talents in various categories, including poetry, short stories, and essays. The competition aims to foster creativity and provide a platform for writers to share their unique perspectives and artistry with a global audience.

We extend our gratitude to Aleena L for sharing her evocative poem "Stillborn" with us in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her work is a testament to the power of words in expressing deep emotional truths. We look forward to seeing more of Aleena's insightful contributions in the future. Thank you for participating, Aleena.

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.