The Boat on Purple Lake - By CADIENTE, Raphael P.

Written By: CADIENTE, Raphael P.

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Raphael P. Cadiente invites us into a vivid world with his poem "The Boat on Purple Lake," a remarkable entry in the Poetry category of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This evocative piece explores themes of memory, nature, and introspection, painting a poignant picture of a boy and his connection to a wooden boat on a purple lake. The competition is a celebration of creativity and literary artistry, offering participants a platform to share their unique voices with a global audience.

About the Work

"The Boat on Purple Lake" weaves a tapestry of rich imagery and introspective themes. Cadiente's use of language captures the essence of a boy's journey through memory and loss, with the wooden boat as a silent witness. The poem evokes a sense of nostalgia and reflection, as the boy navigates the waters of his past and present. The interplay of nature and personal history is conveyed through striking symbolism, creating a hauntingly beautiful narrative.

The Boat on Purple Lake

Original Submission by CADIENTE, Raphael P.

The Boat on Purple Lake

Beaten to pulp, the wooden boat rowed

with roots wrapping its paddle throat

while the yellow was harsh but steady

without serving for a boy’s memory.

‘til he stepped on the hull in a half breath

supported his hind from an ounce step,

believing in him as his father a cutter.

The boy whistled till his knees settled.

The boy waged war against reflection

when water splashed on the port deck.

The wood wet wanted to harm him how

When ownership is reversed no doubt?

Water hyacinths were amiable to him

the way dew built up on their blades

like they were working hard beneath—

their innocence stood under his gaze.

Who else can judge their existence but him—

how he can kill them in one simple spin.

Yet, he cranked away and waited for spring.

Its nape hurt when the boy waited no end.

Purples fill the pond after father’s death.

They had not worked afloat but until then

built a hierarchy in this state-bound lake.

Wood, a witness with no harboring bend.

Let the plants transpire and the fish drown.

The boat has no mirror and the buoy is magic.

Still, the waters covered in lieu of the brawl.

Dead fish huddled under bruise color reign.

Their skin cuts everything, even mahogany.

The boy spends time with his wife by the sea,

vacationing and failing his little pond of alien.

The boy lets it grow, grow, growing inept.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, is a prestigious event that gathers writers and poets from around the world. It celebrates diverse voices and creative expressions, providing a platform for participants to showcase their literary talents. The competition embraces a wide range of genres and styles, encouraging innovation and storytelling that resonates on a global scale.

We extend our gratitude to Raphael P. Cadiente for sharing "The Boat on Purple Lake" with us. His participation in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 adds depth and richness to the event. We appreciate the opportunity to experience his evocative poetry and look forward to seeing more of his work in the future.

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.