Survival is not living. - By Akira Singh

Written By: Akira Singh

Category: Essay

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Akira Singh presents a compelling essay titled "Survival is not living," a thought-provoking entry in the Essay category of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Through this introspective piece, Akira explores the profound distinction between mere survival and truly living, especially within the confines of a capitalist society. The essay offers a critical examination of how societal norms and pressures can obscure true purpose and fulfillment, setting the stage for a dialogue on the importance of creativity and self-expression.

About the Work

In "Survival is not living," Akira Singh delves into the intricate relationship between capitalism and human fulfillment. The essay is imbued with a reflective and critical tone, urging readers to question societal norms that prioritize financial stability over personal happiness. Through vivid imagery and persuasive arguments, Akira highlights how the relentless pursuit of economic security can stifle creativity and dreams, advocating for a shift towards a more expressive and fulfilling way of life.

Survival is not living.

Original Submission by Akira Singh

Survival is not living.

“The only thing worse than being blind is having sight but no vision.” Helen Keller captures the cold hard truth. Living in a capitalist society, humans tend to live according to societal laws. These laws govern the human experience. They dictate a specific way of life. Think of it as walking on a tightrope. One wrong move, and you could fall. Except, this time, there is no safety net. Working that nine to five, hitting that bottom-line, becoming a corporate slave, and sacrificing mental health for money. This creates the assumption that working to the bone is the right way of life. A new definition of life is born. Life requires endurance instead of enjoyment. Society plays a major role in influencing your purpose. Many are shamed, cast out, and ridiculed for following their dreams. Many of us are conditioned to live this way. And living this way makes one feel drained, hopeless, and burnt-out. These negative feelings make us question our present way of life and if it’s one worth living. Humanity loses itself in survival that it forgets what it is surviving for. This essay will argue that choosing survival over fulfillment leads to an unsatisfying existence.

Capitalism prevents humanity from fulfilling its purpose. This can alter our concept of living. A typical job provides financial stability; however, it can also blur the lines between what you are meant to do, and what you need to do. You need that job for basic necessities, but that same job is the reason you are unhappy. For example, if there was a person who wanted to be an artist, she would need to work to afford her rent, food, hygienic products and paint supplies. The system does not allow her to survive solely on her purpose. Capitalism deems that she must work in order to practice her purpose. She may feel the need to abandon her dream. And if she’s not careful, the same grind can corrode parts of your soul until there is nothing left. The problem with today’s society is that it is normalized to stay in jobs that are toxic. They are toxic to your purpose and to your spirit. That is why so many of us give up on dreams. We feel as though achieving our dreams are impossible in this lifetime. And that thought creates insomnia.

Social pressure is a mechanism used to reinforce capitalism. According to society, our dreams cannot make our lives sustainable. Humanity has lived according to three rules: go to school, get a stable job, and support your family. A simple list that governs society. Living in this structured world can silence your true purpose. For example, let’s say there was a teenager with a dream of being a dancer. He would tell his parents, his grandparents, his aunts and uncles, his teachers and friends. Unfortunately, each one of them would discourage him before he even had a chance to act on it. He would be ridiculed by his friends; his family would become increasingly concerned and push him towards a more stable career. This constant discouragement promotes self-doubt. In today’s world, a generalized fear of unconventional career paths takes root. It’s embedded in the very foundation of our society.

There are many devices rooted in capitalism that stun the fundamental need for creativity. The solution is action. It is essential for governments to provide creative spaces for surviving in this complex world. The problem with our society is that it refuses to change. Yet, change is the catalyst for a happier future. Through purposeful action such as government-funded areas with free art supplies, subsidized dance classes, and public poetry readings; we can change a world that promotes a stagnant existence. The artist who could not afford paint would rush toward the art room. The dancer who almost gave up would find an eager crowd waiting for his performance. The spaces become outlets to release tense emotions, they can cultivate human connections, and boost confidence. By funding these crucial sanctuaries, we encourage the public to rely on them through the challenges they face. Through this action, we can live in a more expressive world. Creativity is the tool we use to showcase human existence. We have used it for centuries, and it has become a marker of our humanity. In this technological society, we have dismissed our true origins. This could finally be the first step we take to get back to them.

Survival is not living. Existing in a fast-paced world that convinces us to survive rather than live leads to an unfulfilling life. The capitalistic society that governs humanity produces a generation of depressed, unsatisfied trainwrecks. It fuels the idea of doing what you must rather than what you enjoy. Social pressure strengthens this idea. Unfounded assumptions control public opinion on unconventional career paths. This creates risk-aversion among youngsters. All we need is change. Necessary governmental actions need to be taken to relieve the public of a challenging existence. Providing places where people can express their creativity can become a reliable investment in the long run. Creativity is an important aspect of existence. It is how we cope with reality, but its meaning is much deeper. We use our creative abilities to express ourselves. And through self-expression, life is worth living.

Survival is not living – Akira Singh

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, offers a platform for writers across the globe to showcase their literary talents. This prestigious event celebrates diverse voices and creative expressions, inviting participants to explore themes that resonate deeply with contemporary society. Through this competition, writers have the opportunity to engage with a global audience, contributing to a vibrant tapestry of modern literature.

We extend our gratitude to Akira Singh for the insightful and evocative essay "Survival is not living." Your participation in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 enriches the conversation on the vital topics of creativity, purpose, and societal influence. Thank you for sharing your thought-provoking reflections with us and contributing to the ongoing dialogue about what it truly means to live a fulfilling life.

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.