There Was Only So Much I Could Do - By Parvathi Saji R

Written By: Parvathi Saji R

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the evocative poem "There Was Only So Much I Could Do," Parvathi Saji R paints a vivid portrait of endurance and despair. This entry, submitted to the esteemed Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, showcases Parvathi's keen ability to weave together natural imagery with emotional depth. Set against the backdrop of an unstoppable natural force, this work calls readers to ponder the limits of human resilience in the face of overwhelming challenges.

About the Work

Parvathi Saji R's poem delves into themes of helplessness and the inexorable power of nature. Through a series of vivid images and a tone of pained resignation, the poem captures the experience of facing a natural disaster's relentless force. The work's poignant narrative and rhythmic structure underscore a powerful message about the frailty of human efforts against nature's overwhelming might.

There Was Only So Much I Could Do

Original Submission by Parvathi Saji R

There Was Only So Much I Could Do

Parvathi Saji R

It was getting unbearable.

My once-straight spine could no longer remain the same.

The breaking sounds were faint at first,

but not anymore.

I bore the white mass with feigned determination.

I could not give up,

not when my children depended on me.

I held on for as long as I could.

But there was only so much I could do.

One day, one day, my body failed my mind.

I trembled as the ice rolled down my body in masses,

its sharp edges and jagged spikes striking me as they fell.

I wished to scream.

To warn my children.

To catch every piece of the monstrous glacier.

But there was only so much I could do.

The water rose alarmingly,

My wailings swallowed by the roaring river.

I could feel its anger.

It had had enough.

I heard my children crying.

I heard my children groaning.

I heard my children screaming.

But there was only so much I could do.

The home they had built around me soon became a cemetery.

They never left me.

For they were buried beneath me.

No more smiling.

No more breathing.

No more living.

I can still feel them.

And I wanted to console them.

But there was only so much I could do.

Who was to be blamed?

Who was to be criticised?

A natural disaster.

But was it?

And was I the only one who could have done something?

……………………………………………………….

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar invites writers and poets from around the world to share their unique voices and creative expressions. Celebrating a diverse array of themes and styles, the competition provides a platform for both emerging and established writers to showcase their talent and engage with a global audience.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Parvathi Saji R for sharing the moving poem "There Was Only So Much I Could Do" with us. This poignant contribution to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 offers readers a powerful reflection on nature's indomitable force and the limits of human resilience.

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.