The World is Calm, Even When the Mind is Not - By Michaela Isabelle Luke

Written By: Michaela Isabelle Luke

Category: Short story

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

We are pleased to feature Michaela Isabelle Luke's compelling short story, "The World is Calm, Even When the Mind is Not," as part of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This evocative piece invites readers into a world where the external tranquility contrasts with the inner turmoil of the mind. Michaela's narrative eloquently captures the universal struggle between external serenity and internal chaos.

About the Work

Michaela Isabelle Luke's short story delves into the psychological landscape of anxiety and calmness. Through vivid imagery and poignant prose, the author explores the tension between a seemingly unchanged world and the tumultuous mind. The piece skillfully conveys the oppressive weight of anxiety, juxtaposed with moments of relief and serenity, painting a powerful picture of resilience and hope.

The world is calm, even when the mind is not.

Original Submission by Michaela Isabelle Luke

(The world is calm, even when the mind is not)

It's here- blurry, engulfing my vision. The tiles beneath me are cracking and I'm about to fall through. My shuddering hands claw at the tiles. My knees beg for mercy. It's approaching. I can't run. My pulse is a hummingbird's heart. It teases me- laughing, ridiculing. My eyes are dry, though the floor before me tells me the story of my weeping. It's shoving my gaze down to my pool of tears. My heart trembles in its grip. It's here- tightening around my throat. It's marking my knees crimson. It's whitening my knuckles.

Then- It's gone. My neck finally lifts my gaze from my pool of sobs. I heaved myself off the ground. Air has never felt like luxury. The room is unchanged. The elegant shimmer from the window remains. Most of all, the quiet love around me remains. My breathing steadies. Nothing has changed.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform celebrating diverse voices in poetry and creative writing. This competition invites participants from around the globe to share their unique perspectives and literary talents, fostering a vibrant community of writers and poets.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Michaela Isabelle Luke for her captivating submission, "The World is Calm, Even When the Mind is Not," to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her work is a testament to the power of storytelling in conveying complex emotional landscapes.

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.