Things I Could No Longer Be - By Lily@ Nethra

Written By: Lily@ Nethra

Category: Poetry

Competition: Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Lily@ Nethra presents her evocative poem "Things I Could No Longer Be" in the Poetry category of the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This competition celebrates diverse voices and creative expressions from across the globe. In her poem, Lily@ Nethra delves into themes of self-reflection and the passage of time, exploring the remnants of past aspirations and the complex journey of personal growth.

About the Work

The poem "Things I Could No Longer Be" captures a poignant introspection on identity and change. Through vivid imagery and a reflective tone, Lily@ Nethra examines the evolution of self and the emotions tied to past versions of oneself. The work resonates with anyone who has experienced the bittersweet nature of growth, as it contemplates the courage needed to move beyond former dreams and expectations.

Things I could no longer be

Original Submission by Lily@ Nethra

Things I could no longer be

There are messages in here I never sent,

half a sentence each,

the cursor still blinking

where my courage left the room.

There is the girl who had it all figured out by twenty-five.

She had a plan and a color for every year.

I did not throw her out to become someone better.

I threw her out because I could not bear

to be measured against her

on the mornings nothing had gone to plan.

There is my perfect handwriting,

every letter standing straight,

every page rewritten until it was worthy.

I do not write like that anymore.

Nobody made me stop.

I just ran out of reasons

to make anything look that careful.

At the bottom is the rough notebook from when I was small,

the pages crooked,

everything I wanted written in a hand

that did not yet know how much a person can lose.

The neater diaries came later and carry less.

I threw it out anyway.

Maybe it hurt to be read

by someone who believed everything it said.

About the Competition

The Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform for writers to showcase their literary talents. This annual event draws participants from various backgrounds, offering them an opportunity to share their unique stories and perspectives. Celebrating creativity and originality, the competition highlights the power of words in connecting and inspiring individuals worldwide.

We extend our warm thanks to Lily@ Nethra for her heartfelt contribution, "Things I Could No Longer Be," to the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her introspective piece invites readers to reflect on their own journeys of self-discovery and transformation. We look forward to seeing more of her creative expressions 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.