The Lonely Little Toad - By Ivan Webb

Written By: Ivan Webb

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Ivan Webb, writing under the name "The Lonely Little Toad," presents his work in the poetry category of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. His poem, "The Lonely Little Toad," invites readers into a world where solitude meets charm and humor. Webb's creative expression captivates with its whimsical exploration of a toad's journey to find connection and happiness. The competition, renowned for celebrating diverse literary voices, provides a prestigious platform for poets like Webb to share their unique perspectives with a global audience.

About the Work

"The Lonely Little Toad" is a whimsical poem that delves into themes of solitude, charm, and the quest for connection. Through playful imagery and a narrative style, Webb crafts a tale of a toad whose politeness and grace mask a deeper longing for companionship. The poem's rhythm and humor add layers to the toad's journey, ultimately revealing the bittersweet nature of unmet desires and the unexpected joy found in simple interactions.

The Lonely Little Toad

Original Submission by Ivan Webb

The Lonely Little Toad

by Ivan Lawrence Webb

ivan.l.webb36@gmail.com

1. A lonely little toad sat upon a rock,

Ever was he good, but of lonely stock,

Ever was he polite, but never in company,

Here was our patient king on his rook of chivalry,

2. Should have been dressed in a top hat,

That and a monocle, and a cravat,

A watch dangling on a golden chain

But humble and graceful, not a toad in vain,

3. But never was grace a promise of happiness,

Never was company, wholesome and limitless,

His kind of good and lively uproar,

Ever consigned to him by natural law,

4. A lonely little toad, he squat on his seat

And played the only role he knew so neat:

The kind and graceful, lonely little toad,

Who made the day of passers-by on the road,

5. With a greeting and some chit chat,

But never able to venture more than that,

The strangers soon or late carried on,

Still strangers and the “maybe more” gone,

6. Until, one day, something came into view,

Something to sparkle his spirit anew,

And cause a little heartfelt insanity:

A girl, of course, wild and pretty,

7. Pretty and wild, like the free-blown flower,

One he could never in affection shower,

Could never have been more than polite with normally,

After all, being a gentle toad was lonely,

8. But patience is merely gold over lead,

Like butter spread over too much bread,

And wild beauty… well, there was that scraper,

Sharp, wicked and irresistible a lover,

9. So, the toad gave into planning an evil ploy,

For everyone knows about the bad boy,

They get the girl, and all those nice guys,

Well, they finish stone last and more wise,

10. He concocted a plan, devious and fell,

And spread rumours of a magical spell,

Cast upon a toad of the deep forest,

That kept a handsome prince from rest,

11. The girl heard, searched and found him among the lilies,

She kissed him, hoping to break his magically-cast miseries,

But he did not turn, and gave no way to any blonde, princely stature,

Simply burping his croak, and remaining a toad by nature,

12. Disappointment for her, pulling her up shy,

Oh, but what bliss for him, sleek Mister Sly,

To have stolen a kiss from the lips of the unattainable,

And, to ease her, cracking a joke about the fable,

13. She could not help but laugh and he grew sure of this virtue:

Making her laugh was a worthy endeavour too,

Because, while it is a secret, crazy and mad,

It is also known: funny guys don’t fall far short of the bad

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, is a prestigious event that celebrates the art of poetry and creative writing. It brings together writers from around the world to showcase their talent and share their stories. This competition is an opportunity for writers to gain exposure and engage with a community of literary enthusiasts. Participants submit their works in various categories, contributing to a vibrant tapestry of global literary culture.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Ivan Webb for sharing "The Lonely Little Toad" with us in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Webb's work beautifully captures the essence of solitude and humor through the eyes of a charming toad. We are grateful for his contribution and look forward to more of his creative endeavors in the future.

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.