The Happy Runaway - By Arpita Das

Written By: Arpita Das

Category: Poetry

Competition: Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Arpita Das, known by her writing name "The Happy Runaway," presents a poignant piece titled "The Happy Runaway" for the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This competition by Hashtag Kalakar is a celebration of literary creativity and expression. Arpita's poem delves into the tumultuous and emotional atmosphere of a conflicted household, capturing the raw emotions of a child caught in the crossfire of parental discord.

About the Work

"The Happy Runaway" paints a vivid picture of a young girl's internal struggle amidst familial chaos. The poem's somber tone and rich imagery convey a profound narrative of fear, longing, and the desire for escape. Arpita Das uses evocative language and emotional depth to explore themes of conflict and the yearning for peace. Her poetic style draws readers into a world of intense emotions and a desperate quest for freedom.

The Happy Runaway

Original Submission by Arpita Das

[The Happy Runaway]

The shouting starts before the sun can rise,

And I’m the one who has to close my eyes.

The language is a sludge, a thick and oily stain,

Hurled at my father’s head like driving, bitter rain.

I see my father’s face, I hear the slur,

The ugly language rising up from her.

It’s the tone, that sharp upward climb toward the blow,

That makes my blood turn cold and my breathing start to slow.

And I am in the middle.. the daughter made of glass,

Praying for the storm to quickly pass.

I'm paralyzed. I’m frozen in my bed,

With a sharp pain and those screams in my head.

I want to speak, I want to make it stop,

But I’m the grain that’s waiting for the drop.

I’m scared. I am terrified..

With nowhere left for a girl like me to hide.

To watch the two who made me fall apart,

While their constant fights tear into my heart.

I get a jolt that wakes me from my bed,

A lightning strike of terror ringing through my head.

Can you blame the bird for wanting wings to fly?

To leave the nest of thorns and seek a silent sky?

I’ll be the happy runaway, the first one out the gate,

Trading a house of war for a different state.

About the Competition

The Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is an esteemed event that invites writers from around the globe to share their unique voices and stories. This competition seeks to foster a community of creativity, offering participants a platform to explore diverse themes and showcase their literary talents.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Arpita Das for her evocative poem, "The Happy Runaway," submitted to the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her ability to capture the essence of familial turmoil with such sincerity is truly commendable. Thank you, Arpita, for sharing your powerful voice with us.

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.