The Prick Of Time - By Isabella-Jane Shah binti Shahrum Ali

Written By: Isabella-Jane Shah binti Shahrum Ali

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Enter the contemplative world of Isabella-Jane Shah binti Shahrum Ali with her poignant poem, "The Prick Of Time," submitted to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This reflective piece, nestled within the poetry category, explores the ephemeral nature of life and beauty. Through eloquent verses, Isabella-Jane captures the essence of fleeting existence, drawing readers into a meditation on time's impact on life. Her work stands as a testament to the power of poetry to evoke profound introspection within the universal human experience.

About the Work

"The Prick Of Time" delves into themes of transience and mortality. Isabella-Jane uses vivid imagery and a melancholic tone to illustrate the inevitable passage of time. The poem contrasts the fleeting beauty of nature with the cycle of human life, employing rich metaphors and a lyrical style to convey its message. The imagery of blooming flowers and aging individuals invites readers to reflect on the preciousness of each moment, urging an appreciation for the present despite its ephemeral nature.

The Prick Of Time

Original Submission by Isabella-Jane Shah binti Shahrum Ali

Written by Isabella-Jane Shah binti Shahrum Ali

The Prick Of Time

With the breath of life comes the mark of time;

Death lends to life the transience that renders it so precious.

That earthly beauty lives to fleet has no reason to it nor rhyme;

Only that which breathes lives to be left so breathless.

I marvel at the allure of a rose, hanging held by its stem;

Lamenting the wondrous bloom, fated to come to pass.

Watching rolling ruby dewdrops that glitter like fiery gems;

A vivid blossom bursting with life I lay down on a bed of grass.

From a babe comes a boy, then a man in the prime of his life –

As a frail bud bursts forth, captivating all in her wake.

Man’s wrinkled skin and brittle bones soon bring him his strife;

The gentle bloom falls with nary the strength to quiver nor quake.

In the breadth of dying breaths, a strong man falls to blight;

A beautiful flower rests on the ground as she wilts out of sight.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar celebrates artistic expression across diverse genres, offering a platform for writers to showcase their creativity. This prestigious competition draws participants worldwide, fostering a dynamic exchange of ideas and literary craft. Through poetry, short stories, and creative writing, the event highlights the universal power of words to inspire, provoke thought, and evoke emotions.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Isabella-Jane Shah binti Shahrum Ali for her evocative contribution, "The Prick Of Time," to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her exploration of life's transience resonates deeply, inviting us all to ponder the beauty in our finite moments. We appreciate her participation and look forward to witnessing her continued literary 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.