Survival - By Nat Smith

Written By: Nat Smith

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Meet the talented poet Nat Smith, whose introspective piece "Survival" graces the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. In the poetry category, Nat delves into the nuanced theme of personal endurance and the complex emotions that accompany it. With a focus on self-preservation and silent strength, Nat's work invites readers to reflect on their own experiences of survival.

About the Work

"Survival" is a poignant exploration of the inner landscapes we navigate in silence. Nat Smith employs vivid imagery and a compelling narrative style to convey the weight of unspoken emotions. The poem’s contemplative tone underscores a quiet resilience, offering a profound reflection on the need to sometimes retreat into solitude for self-preservation.

Survival

Original Submission by Nat Smith

Survival

Most people wouldn’t understand—

they’d just glance, expression bland.

So I stopped speaking,

stopped seeking

someone to pry open the locks

on the doors I’ve built with heavy blocks.

I stopped trying to explain,

’cause words can twist into chains,

and every chain drags more and more pain.

It’s not vanity, not some game—

its survival,

a quiet kind of revival.

Some weights are lighter when you hide

them in shadow,

when you slip them back onto a dusty

shelf,

where no curious hands can follow,

where they can rest—

and so can I.

Because in truth,

even if they lend an ear,

they’ll never hear—

not the marrow of my words,

not the ghosts in my tone.

They move in herds,

each one thinking they stand alone.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, celebrates the diverse voices of writers worldwide. This prestigious competition showcases original works in poetry, short stories, essays, and creative writing, bringing together a vibrant tapestry of human experience and imagination.

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to Nat Smith for sharing the evocative poem "Survival" with us. Your participation in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 enriches our understanding of the quiet strength in survival. Thank you, Nat, for your insightful contribution.

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.