The Cat and the Woman - By Anirban Sen

Written By: Anirban Sen

Category: Poetry

Competition: Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Anirban Sen presents a touching piece titled "The Cat and the Woman" in the Poetry category of the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This evocative work delves into themes of motherhood, empathy, and the human connection with nature. Through the lens of a winter setting, Sen masterfully explores the tender bond between a woman and a cat, drawing parallels that resonate deeply with universal experiences of care and compassion.

About the Work

"The Cat and the Woman" is a poetic exploration of the profound connection between a mother and nature. Anirban Sen uses vivid imagery and a reflective tone to convey the warmth and empathy that transcends the chilling grasp of winter. The poem skillfully contrasts the comfort of a warm blanket with the harsh realities faced by a mother cat, highlighting themes of protection and humaneness. It’s a tender reflection on the shared experiences of nurturing and the innate desire to provide solace.

The Cat and the Woman

Original Submission by Anirban Sen

The Cat and the Woman

Winter speaks chilling, sometimes but how can I be so selfish?

I love to subdue myself in the warmth of my blanket, answering the calls.

Every now and then, I can hear you; tell me, what can I do for you and for myself?

I, a mother, not a matter, not an object of desire or secrecy, feel dizzy.

Winter excites me the most, but when I heard the call, the sound touched me.

No, let me break the spell of the seductress winter on that balcony of mine,

Which bore my footprints not just for the present, but for the presents to come.

I stepped out, making my presence clear, approaching the open sky to find;

To find the sound, still fresh in the air.

Intuition drives me closer.

That sight-who dares look? I don't. A mother, you and I, not the same, but

Not different; it is not just the role; it is more human than the word human itself.

Is there any being privileged enough to bear life within them more than us, you and I?

All of a sudden, I stepped out from the eternal vision and insight,

Just to discover the situation where you and I are, and were.

I call, not to get attention, but to resolve the pain

The pain that I feel, as a mother, when I saw you with your little ones,

Resting in the illusion of safety rather than the much-needed rest which you cannot take.

Winter is merciless not for me, but for you, a mother of four.

Still coiled, not to rest but to protect, amid a space open to ravage.

To the season, I feel quite soothed, but how does it feel to be an object?

I prick myself, not to think, but to act; not to wonder, but to render;

Not just some help, but rather gratitude. I feel it as a mother.

My hands follow; they reach for the top of the roof,

Where a mother, makes her heaven,

Until it is disturbed by the ravaging winter.

Such a tender touch I felt; I called out to my God,

Let it be a place, or let her find a place to soothe the mother.

I appeal to myself: could it be possible to share,

Some space in this abode not for long, but for the season?

I find myself with an answer; I took them all in,

Once and for all, not to be a part of that freezing winter anymore,

But to be a part of my winter, which soothes and does not ravage anymore.

And I named them, one after another not merely as a signifier, but more as

The signified; not just as a cat, but as Tom, Merry, John, and so on,

As you and I like, and prefer for us.

About the Competition

The Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform celebrating creativity and literary expression. Showcasing diverse voices from around the world, the competition aims to inspire and connect writers through the power of words. Participants explore a wide array of themes, contributing to a vibrant tapestry of contemporary literature.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Anirban Sen for sharing "The Cat and the Woman" with us in the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your poignant exploration of motherhood and empathy enriches our understanding of these universal themes. We are grateful for your contribution and look forward to seeing more of your insightful 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.