The ghost guest - By Pramiti Das
Updated: 6 hours ago
Written By: Pramiti Das
Category: Poetry
Competition: Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026
In the evocative poem "The ghost guest," Pramiti Das invites readers into a world observed through the eyes of a young girl. This poignant piece is part of the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, showcasing the theme of fleeting promises and the stark realities that linger in their wake. Pramiti's contribution to this esteemed competition highlights the intersection of hope and disillusionment, delivered through a lens that is both intimate and expansive.
About the Work
"The ghost guest" explores the theme of unfulfilled promises and societal neglect through vivid imagery and a child's perspective. The poem's mood shifts from initial curiosity to a somber realization, underscored by the recurring figure of a mysterious visitor. Pramiti Das uses subtle, yet powerful language to illustrate the cycle of hope and disappointment, creating a narrative that resonates with authenticity and emotional depth.
The ghost guest
Original Submission by Pramiti Das
The little girl watches from her window.
A big man in white, in a big car, stops.
Big clouds of dust rise before him,
As if the road is trying to stop him.
A few people around,
Clearing his way.
Father greets him with a big smile.
Not a true one,
The kind that stays only on the lips.
The kind she gives
When she watches “that uncle” go by.
She runs to the kitchen,
To her mother.
But-
What goodness!
What is he doing there?
Rolling the roti,
Turning it in careful circles,
Like he has done this before.
Stirring the sabzi.
Baba. Ma.
Stand in a corner,
Not as excited as the girl.
Their eyes-
A gleaming gaze of guilt,
Confusion,
Hopelessness.
They stand there with patience,
Patience enough to tolerate.
The room is filled with lenses,
Lenses that say the man is god,
Like a last matchstick in the dark.
Now, the man speaks.
Promises.
Promises the field a better tomorrow,
Where crops will rise again.
Promises a big school,
Full of light and books.
Promises meals,
Not today, but often.
Promises hope,
As if it costs nothing.
The little girl watches him leave.
The car goes,
Taking the noise, the smiles, the cameras with it.
And then-
Everything returns.
The field stays dry.
The children still walk without light.
People still sleep with empty stomachs.
Her brother is still out there,
Without work, without a place.
Time passes quietly.
Until-
After five years,
The same car.
The same white clothes.
The same stop.
The ghost guest comes again.
Smiles.
Promises.
And disappears.
About the Competition
The Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform celebrating diverse voices and creative expression. It encourages writers to explore and articulate their unique perspectives through various literary forms, offering a space for both emerging and established talents to shine.
We extend our gratitude to Pramiti Das for sharing "The ghost guest" with us as part of the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her insightful depiction of promises and reality offers readers a reflective and compelling experience. Thank you, Pramiti, for your contribution to this literary celebration.
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.
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