The artist and the muse - By Eshmal Khan

Written By: Eshmal Khan

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Eshmal Khan presents "The artist and the muse," a deeply evocative poem featured in the Poetry category of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This piece delves into the intricate dance between an artist and their muse, exploring the profound connection and unspoken emotions that bind them. Through this work, Eshmal Khan captures the essence of longing and the unfulfilled desires that often accompany such relationships.

About the Work

"The artist and the muse" by Eshmal Khan is an exploration of the emotional interplay between inspiration and creator. The poem's lyrical quality and vivid imagery convey a sense of yearning and vulnerability. It captures the delicate balance of unspoken feelings and the tension that exists in the shared glances and unconfessed emotions. Eshmal's work gracefully portrays the bittersweet reality of unrequited love and the courage required to face the truth.

The artist and the muse

Original Submission by Eshmal Khan

The artist and the muse

What’s a muse without an artist

And what’s an artist without a muse

What are you without me

And what am I without you?

We sneak glances at the table

Touch hands by mistake

Blush at each other’s words

And leave it all at a stake

We don’t confess our feeling

Even though we both feel the same

Because the rush of not knowing

Is all that keeps us sane

I think about you at midnight

And I know that you do too

Because the bags under your eyes

Match mine with the same hue

Though sometimes I want something more

Something more than the stolen glances

Than the knocks on my door

I want to tell you how I feel

And I want you to tell me the same

I want to see that sparkle in your eyes

That somehow never fades

So I now gather up the courage

And I knock on your door

I tell you how I feel

I tell you what I adore

And for the first time I see that spark in your eyes dim

I see it fade into the brown

Almost like it never existed

You apologise for the misunderstanding

And you shut your door

Leaving me outside

In the biting blue cold

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, celebrates the art of written expression. This prestigious platform invites participants from around the world to share their creativity and unique voices. The competition showcases a diverse range of poetry and creative writing, offering a space for artists to engage with global audiences and enrich the literary landscape.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Eshmal Khan for sharing "The artist and the muse" with us. This poignant poem is a beautiful addition to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. We are grateful for Eshmal's contribution and for allowing us to experience the depth and emotion of this captivating work.

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.