The Stans - By Zelri Fiet

Written By: Zelri Fiet

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, Zelri Fiet presents "The Stans," a captivating poem that takes readers on a vivid journey through the landscapes and cultures of Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. This competition provides a platform for poets and writers from across the globe to showcase their creative talents. Fiet's work stands out for its rich imagery and cultural depth, inviting readers to explore the beauty and diversity of Central Asia through her words.

About the Work

"The Stans" by Zelri Fiet intricately weaves together the landscapes, traditions, and emotions of Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. With a keen eye for detail, Fiet paints vivid images of snow-covered peaks, bustling markets, and the warmth of community life. The poem is imbued with a sense of nostalgia and reverence for the region's rich heritage, capturing the essence of its people and their enduring spirit amidst the majestic backdrop of Central Asia.

The Stans

Original Submission by Zelri Fiet

The Stans

By Zelri Fiet

Kyrgyzstan 🇰🇬

Eagle eyeing the sea of snow-covered peaks

Ground lice skatterd heards

Beckoning yurts

Horses slaving away

Inured to return at the moon's looming

A wrestle, tardily to their death

The new day awakes at noon

Lamb rings and hot chai

Draped in savoir-faire

Well-coiffed in lives once wild

Reserved, deep humble care

With lavishing largesse

Patterns scattered among every surface

Bouquets of aromas dancing around corners

Distant prayers to Allah

Captured in the wind's whiff

A beauty that resides within its people

Tajikistan

Patrolled with gracious smiles

Valleys, a Marco Polo colour tapestry

Twirling horns chased in pursuit of

Lamb and potato casserole

Coal stove love,

Soothing winter's aching kiss

As far as the moon shines

Heavenly Blue angels lay upon the

shimmering white quilt

Dedicated orange jackets

Breaking ice, sowing comforting rich earth

Travelers salvaged from far and wide

Searching the desolate plains

Dry blades of gold barely visible

Soft breath fills the crisp air

Her warm tears lavish our skin

In the mountains of Pamir

Sing the wolves a winter cheer

Yaks bring hopes of summer

And the rivers fill her dear

Khorogh embraced me

Her strength in Kolya's earthy eyes

Safeguarding my fragility

through the death valley of Shukhrobod

Dushanbe awaited us with scars of the past nested in a modern life

Weariness running through the streets

Alongside a kind Khujand giant

Stretched rockface of autumn tones

Delicious Dolmas and evening birdsong

Revived by the still waters of Qayraqqum

Uzbekistan

Militants camouflaged in aquamarine

Their smiles softening a facade of danger

Tashkent parading with excitement

Crossing borders of endearment

Karim passes us along graciously

From Ali to Kazim

Unexpectedly into fame

Straw covered clay houses

A home to families alike

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, is a celebration of literary creativity, bringing together participants from around the world. The competition encourages submissions across various categories, providing a platform for writers to express their unique voices and perspectives. It serves as a beacon for emerging and established writers alike to share their work with a global audience.

We extend our gratitude to Zelri Fiet for sharing "The Stans" with us as part of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her evocative portrayal of Central Asia offers readers a glimpse into the beauty and complexity of the region. We look forward to seeing more of her inspiring work 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.