The Absent Leaf - By Mohammad Abdul Razzaq Siddique

Written By: Mohammad Abdul Razzaq Siddique

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Delve into the profound world of "The Absent Leaf," a poetry submission by Mohammad Abdul Razzaq Siddique, crafted under the writing pseudonym "The Absent Leaf." Submitted to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, this evocative piece explores the delicate interplay between humanity and nature. Through this poetry, Siddique invites readers to reflect on themes of human fragility, the passage of time, and our connection to the earth.

About the Work

"The Absent Leaf" is a contemplative poem that weaves a tapestry of imagery and introspection. The piece draws heavily on the theme of human fragility against the backdrop of nature's transient beauty. With echoes of classical thought, it paints a vivid picture of life's impermanence and the quiet persistence of memory and regret. The work resonates with a timeless quality, invoking thoughtful reflection on our existence and legacy.

The Absent Leaf

Original Submission by Mohammad Abdul Razzaq Siddique

The Absent Leaf

خفِّف الوطءَ ما أظنُّ أديمَ الأرضِ إلا من هذه الأجساد

I keep from those birthed: the world is an empty glass.

We hold the earth with a debt past paying, and we grovel

only when the branches are bare. My past still flickers

in the shade of what's left, between man's impudence and frailty.

I keep from those birthed: the world is, at best, half unkind.

Human disregard regards the leaf's fragility;

expensive makeup covers deep scars.

The future hangs in a cradle above sprinting life;

the leaf is nowhere to be found when yearned for.

I keep from those birthed: the mistakes we never regret.

"Weak man" doesn't exist, only blood and flesh.

I hide in soft words while the orchard thins, but the birthed hear clearly;

the river echoes the past and future at its shredded mouth.

“Tread lightly; I think the earth’s surface is made of nothing but these bodies.”

— Abu al-ʿAlāʾ al-Maʿarrī

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious event celebrating the myriad voices of writers worldwide. This platform provides an opportunity for poets and writers to showcase their talents and share their unique perspectives on life, nature, and human experience. Participants from diverse backgrounds come together to contribute to a rich tapestry of creative expression.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Mohammad Abdul Razzaq Siddique for sharing "The Absent Leaf" with us in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. His work enriches the dialogue on human and natural themes, offering a poignant reminder of our place in the world. We look forward to witnessing more of his insightful contributions to the literary landscape.

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.