The Silence Beyond the Window - By Harithi Perera

Written By: Harithi Perera

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Harithi Perera graces the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 with "The Silence Beyond the Window," a compelling poetic entry in the category of Poetry. This work invites readers into a reflective narrative centered around familial struggles and the quest for hope amidst adversity. Through the enchanting dialogue with a nightingale, Harithi paints a moving portrait of the silent battles faced within the walls of home.

About the Work

"The Silence Beyond the Window" is rich with emotive imagery and thoughtful introspection. Harithi Perera masterfully employs the conversation between a child and a nightingale to explore themes of familial duty, despair, and the pursuit of hope. The poem's mood oscillates between sorrow and a yearning for change, encapsulating the emotional weight of the characters' realities. With its layered questions and poignant reflections, it leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

The Silence Beyond the Window

Original Submission by Harithi Perera

The Silence Beyond the Window

I looked out the window,

And a nightingale saw me.

He asked, with pure veracity,

“Why, O dear child, dost thou look so glum…?”

I smiled. I smiled again.

And I sobbed.

“You ask why, darling bird,

But have you not seen my poor mother working; At the mill when sun awakes,

And at home when he sleeps.”

He asked again;

“Why, O dear child, dost thou mother work so hard…?” “You ask why, darling bird,

But have you not seen my sister;

Leaning on deaths arms,

Burning,

With the same fire of anguish when her child; breathed its last…!”

He asked again;

“What, O dear child, dost thou father doth…?” “You ask what, darling bird,

But have you not seen my father;

Work in fields at the bloometh dawn, And walks to the pub across the church, Drinks his days work,

comes home and hit!”

“Why, O dear child, dost thou life so glum…?” “You ask why, darling bird,

But have you not realized,

My mother was too fragile;

To assert herself.

My sister too chaste and blinded;

By illusion.

They now reap what they sow.”

“What, oh dear child, art thou thinking…?” “You ask what, darling bird,

But can you not see;

That I am looking for help and hope, Amid these martial trenches.

For a divine divergence from reality…”

The next day,

I looked out the window,

And the nightingale was gone,

And he never returned.

- Harithi Perera

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform celebrating the diverse voices and creative expressions of writers worldwide. This esteemed event invites participants to share their unique narratives and poetic talents, fostering a global community of literary enthusiasts. The competition is a testament to the power of words and the art of storytelling, encouraging writers to push boundaries and explore new dimensions in their craft.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Harithi Perera for sharing "The Silence Beyond the Window" with us in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your evocative exploration of life's challenges through poetry enriches our understanding of resilience and hope. Thank you for contributing your voice to this celebration of creativity and introspection.

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.