The Life Between What-Ifs - By Biranalini Mahinthan

Written By: Biranalini Mahinthan

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Biranalini Mahinthan presents a thought-provoking piece titled "The Life Between What-Ifs" in the Poetry category for the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This poem invites readers to reflect on the paths not taken and the alternate realities that linger in the realm of imagination. Mahinthan's work delves into the profound theme of life's crossroads, exploring the intricate dance between choice and consequence.

About the Work

"The Life Between What-Ifs" is a contemplative exploration of life's potential trajectories. Mahinthan skillfully employs imagery and introspection to convey the timeless theme of alternate possibilities. The poem's reflective tone invites readers to ponder the impact of their decisions and the existence of parallel lives born from different choices. Through evocative language, the work captures the essence of human curiosity about what might have been.

The Life Between What-Ifs

Original Submission by Biranalini Mahinthan

The Life Between What-Ifs

Sometimes I wonder

what my life would be like

if I had chosen

differently.

My mind still wanders

along the path I never took,

toward the road

I was too afraid to follow,

toward the choices

I left behind.

What if I had chosen them instead?

Would it have been better?

Or worse?

What would my life be

if I were living

the life I abandoned?

Would I still be me?

Or would I be

someone I had never known?

Perhaps somewhere,

in a parallel universe,

another version of me

is standing at the same crossroads,

looking back at this life

and wondering

What if?

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, is a celebration of creativity and literary expression. This prestigious platform showcases diverse voices from around the world, offering poets and writers a chance to share their unique perspectives. Participants engage with a community that values the art of storytelling in its many forms, fostering a global dialogue through the written word.

We extend our gratitude to Biranalini Mahinthan for sharing "The Life Between What-Ifs" with the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This introspective poem enriches the conversation about life's choices and their profound implications. We appreciate Mahinthan's contribution to this literary celebration and look forward to witnessing more of their artistic journey.

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.