The Marionette Ran Away - By Parul Raghav

Written By: Parul Raghav

Category: Poetry

Competition: Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Parul Raghav presents a poignant piece titled "The Marionette Ran Away" in the category of Poetry for the esteemed Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. The poem explores the profound theme of liberation from societal constraints and the pursuit of personal freedom. Through vivid imagery and emotive language, Raghav articulates the journey of a marionette breaking free from its strings, embodying the universal quest for self-identity and autonomy.

About the Work

"The Marionette Ran Away" delves into the theme of emancipation, capturing the marionette's escape from the confines of societal expectations. The poem is rich in metaphor and alludes to the struggle against invisible chains that bind. Raghav's literary style is both evocative and introspective, creating a mood of defiant triumph as the marionette seeks solace and renewal in newfound freedom.

The Marionette Ran Away

Original Submission by Parul Raghav

The Marionette Ran Away

The marionette ran away,

She cut the strings that pulled and tugged,

Those damaging societal fretters,

That had caged her and restricted her move,

The dictates that dictated her life to be screwed,

Those fakers who were trying to be the makers.

And the marionette ran away,

She had performed endlessly,

Till she drained all the joy that dwelled within,

The triumphant victory after vanquishing,

The restrictions that had forced her to cave in.

The marionette ran away,

The danger level had been long surpassed,

It made her lose ground,

And tore open the core’s center,

She got fed up of being discarded in dungeon,

After daily performance of perfunctory chores.

And the marionette ran away,

Because she realized she was an entity of her own

Not a label to be on empty bottles stuck and peeled,

Not a plaything to be tweaked,

Earning to the tunes of others,

Never taken care of,

Fading into oblivion,

From illness growing weak.

The marionette ran away,

Without leaving a trace,

Not fearful of the unknown,

Because she hated the grind of the centerstage,

Where she had always entertained,

Seeing glib tongued liars in the crowd,

That had promised heaven but kept her in hade.

And the marionette ran away,

To the neverland of dreams,

To do as she pleased,

Because her frail body,

Needed fresca of fresh breeze,

To lift her ebbing spirits,

To get solace that can only come from freedom’s streak.

About the Competition

The Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a celebrated platform for showcasing outstanding literary talent. The competition invites poets and writers to express their creativity and share their unique voices with a global audience. It is an opportunity for participants to explore diverse themes and present their work in a supportive and inspiring environment.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Parul Raghav for her eloquent submission, "The Marionette Ran Away." Her participation in the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 highlights the power of poetry to convey deep emotional truths. We look forward to witnessing more of her creative expressions 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.