The Call Not Taken - By Gayatri MP

Written By: Gayatri MP

Category: Poetry

Competition: Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

With a keen eye for the interplay between humanity and nature, Gayatri MP presents "The Call Not Taken," a compelling poetry submission in the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This evocative piece invites readers to ponder the changing dynamics of our environment and society, as observed through the eyes of a sparrow. Through vivid imagery and thoughtful reflection, Gayatri MP's work captures the nuanced relationship between human progress and ecological balance.

About the Work

"The Call Not Taken" delves into the theme of environmental disruption through the perspective of a sparrow. The poem juxtaposes the carefree existence of birds with the relentless pursuit of progress by humans. Gayatri MP employs rich imagery and a poignant tone to highlight the consequences of urbanization and the resulting habitat loss. The work serves as a contemplative critique of humanity's priorities, urging a reconsideration of our impact on the natural world.

The call not taken

Original Submission by Gayatri MP

The call not taken……

What are you doing there up and yonder?

Perhaps about the changing scenarios you have stopped to ponder……… Perched on the roof of the temple O sparrow��

Pitying the antics of the species who call themselves uno numero?

We’d find you seated in rows and rows,

Oblivious of the greediness throes,

On roofs and fences,

Wires and branches,

Exchanging pleasantries,

Giving running commentaries,

The festival of feathers became a part of our photographic memory , Along with the accompanying tunes of the melodious bhramari !

Obsessed and driven by a false sense of pride ,

The high and mighty take everyone for a ride.

As values gather moss,

Humanity goes for a toss!

The sparrows have been forced to endure habitat loss.

“Gone are the trees,

The cool morn and evening breeze,

Friendly houses and barns ,

Fashionable personalities stay put spinning yarns and yarns . …….. Reckless urbanization,

Fuelled by widespread chemicals utilization ,

In farms and kitchens……

By what is this intelligently ignorant man smitten?

In his haste to make a quick buck,

He’s made himself a sitting duck.

These are my two cents, “

Quoth the sparrow, to its thoughts giving vent.

The case of the missing sparrows cannot be solved while on a sojourn ,

2

Promising decisions let’s not adjourn! Gayatri.

3

About the Competition

The Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, is a distinguished platform celebrating the art of written expression. It invites participants from around the globe to share their unique perspectives through poetry and creative writing. The competition emphasizes originality, creativity, and the power of words to inspire and provoke thought.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Gayatri MP for sharing "The Call Not Taken" with us. Your insightful exploration of nature and humanity resonates deeply in the context of the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Thank you for contributing your voice to this celebration of literary art.

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.