The Knife, the Bird, and the Boat - By chloe.lubbe

Written By: chloe.lubbe

Category: poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In a deeply introspective piece titled "The Knife, the Bird, and the Boat," chloe.lubbe takes readers on a poignant journey through the realms of emotion and solitude. Submitted as part of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, this poem invites us to explore themes of longing and introspection. Through vivid imagery and a contemplative mood, chloe.lubbe's work stands as a testament to the power of poetry to touch the soul.

About the Work

The poem "The Knife, the Bird, and the Boat" by chloe.lubbe weaves a narrative filled with rich imagery and emotional depth. It explores the themes of longing and solitude, contrasting the natural inclination to soar with the grounding weight of reality. The poem's mood is contemplative, inviting readers to reflect on their own experiences of freedom and constraint, dreams and reality.

the knife the bird and the boat

Original Submission by chloe.lubbe

the knife, bird, and boat

I still remember the shape of a wound

not swift to cut,

but heavy enough to remind the skin

What it felt like to gasp the heavens.

I am the dove

wings bitten bare by the cotton

The heavens sick of my sorrow.

I was made to soar

and yet the ground dances

for the sour nectar of my beek

My wings still rattle aimlessly in the gravel,

still dream of the wind-whispered flight,

But my cherry heart has gone quiet

a small, dark stone. leaden

Where something wild used to live.

I am the boat that drifted too far from shore,

not yet violated by the heavens’ fury,

but swoddeld, watered

With the weight of its own loneliness.

By chloe.lubbe

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious event celebrating the power of words and creativity. Bringing together voices from around the world, this competition aims to showcase diverse literary talents, offering participants a platform to share their unique perspectives and stories through poetry and creative writing.

We extend our gratitude to chloe.lubbe for sharing "The Knife, the Bird, and the Boat" with us in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This evocative piece adds a unique voice to the array of submissions, inviting readers to reflect deeply on its themes. Thank you, chloe.lubbe, for your contribution to this celebration of poetic expression.

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.