The Wandering Lantern - By Unspoken Farewell

Written By: The wandering lantern

Category: Poetry

Competition: Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the evocative poem "The Wandering Lantern," Unspoken Farewell invites readers into a world of introspection and emotional depth. Submitted to the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, this piece falls under the poetry category and explores themes of love, disillusionment, and the resilience of the human spirit. Unspoken Farewell's poignant words guide us through the delicate interplay between affection and heartache, offering a reflective journey within.

About the Work

"The Wandering Lantern" is a deeply moving exploration of love's complexities and the bittersweet journey of healing. Through vivid imagery and a contemplative tone, the poet navigates the shadows of betrayal and the quiet strength found in vulnerability. The poem's poignant mood captures the universal quest for genuine connection and the courage to embrace love despite past wounds, creating a resonant emotional tapestry.

Unspoken Farewell '

Original Submission by The wandering lantern

‘Unspoken Farewell’

And yet, once more, the bitter tide of disillusionment came-

A sorrowful wave upon the shores of her spirit.

Was there no gentler path by which one might love,

Where the heart could give without learning the language of wounds?

Did there exist a hidden art among mortals,

A way to cherish without awaiting betrayal’s shadow?

How could a tender soul such as hers

Untangle the quiet riddles of affection and grief?

Perhaps it was true what countless hearts had discovered-

That love was a garden where unseen winters entered the roots.

Would she ever know the warmth of being chosen,

Or was she destined to reach for fading lights?

Yet she dared not accuse the heavens,

For the world had long been unkind to the innocent,

And the gentle were often the first to carry the weight of storms.

Why had she entrusted her soul to love?

Why had she believed the promises of one

Whose words scattered like leaves in an autumn wind?

It was her folly to hope that he would change-

Yet somewhere within her, a small flame refused to die.

But she no longer possessed the courage

To wait beside a heart that could not honour its own vows.

Did he deserve her? Perhaps he did.

Yet she was not carved from marble or forged from iron;

She was but a young maiden discovering

The quiet value of her own wounded heart.

She would no longer pour her devotion

Into mirages wearing the face of love,

Nor surrender her peace to fragile illusions.

For now, her heart would retreat into silence-

Not as a punishment for the undeserving,

But as a refuge where it might mend.

And if love, by some forgotten mercy of fate,

Should find its way to her again,

She would welcome it-

For even a heart that has known sorrow

May still remember the language of tenderness.

About the Competition

The Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar celebrates the art of words, inviting participants to express their creativity and emotional depth through poetry and prose. This prestigious event highlights diverse voices and unique perspectives, fostering a vibrant community of writers from around the globe who share their talents and stories with the world.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Unspoken Farewell for sharing "The Wandering Lantern" with us. Your participation in the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 enriches the literary tapestry of our community. Thank you for your moving contribution and for allowing us a glimpse into your poetic world.

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.