The Inner Ledger of Darkness - By Ege Everek

Written By: Ege Everek

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Ege Everek brings forth a poignant exploration in their poetry submission "The Inner Ledger of Darkness" for the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Participating in the esteemed event, Everek's work delves into themes of introspection and solitude, wrapped in the enveloping embrace of darkness. The piece invites readers to ponder the quiet yet profound shifts within one's soul, as night subtly alters the internal landscape.

About the Work

"The Inner Ledger of Darkness" is a contemplative piece that artfully navigates the realms of loneliness and self-discovery. Through vivid imagery and a somber tone, Everek paints a picture of darkness as a silent companion, an entity that rearranges the inner self rather than the external world. The poem is a reflection on the intimacy of solitude, the quiet acceptance of one's own shadows, and the inevitable understanding that blooms through introspection.

The Inner Ledger of Darkness

Original Submission by Ege Everek

The Inner Ledger of Darkness

Night does not slam the door shut;

it slips inside quietly

and rearranges the furniture.

When I look into the mirror,

my face still belongs to me,

but my gaze does not.

Loneliness

is always mistaken for absence

yet it is,

the moment a person stands too close to themselves.

There is no distance left between us,

and that is why it hurts.

Darkness grows in the room,

but it does not overflow.

It spreads like a thought,

like an unclaimed grief

seeping into every corner.

At night,

people speak less;

words grow tired

of the meanings they carry.

Some sentences

shrink when they are spoken.

There is a silence inside me,

left behind by someone else.

Who placed it there,

in which time

I cannot remember.

But every night

I understand it a little more.

There is an old familiarity

between darkness and me.

It does not hide me,

and I do not flee from it.

We recognize each other

exactly as we are.

And I know this:

a person

does not remain in darkness

when the lights go out,

but when they stop running from themselves.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a celebration of literary excellence, inviting writers and poets from around the globe to share their voices. This prestigious competition serves as a platform for creative expression, fostering a diverse array of narratives and poetic endeavors. Participants are given the opportunity to explore various themes and connect with a broader audience through their unique storytelling.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Ege Everek for their evocative submission, "The Inner Ledger of Darkness," to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Their work enriches the collective tapestry of voices participating in this distinguished event. We look forward to witnessing more of Everek's insightful contributions to the world of poetry.

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.