Tossed Coin - By Avani Shinde

Written By: Avani Shinde

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Presenting "Tossed Coin," a thought-provoking poem by Avani Shinde, featured in the esteemed Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. In this reflective piece, Avani weaves a narrative that explores the themes of identity, self-worth, and introspection. As the poem unfolds, readers are invited to join the poet on a journey of self-discovery, drawing parallels between the self and an ordinary coin.

About the Work

Avani Shinde's "Tossed Coin" artfully uses the metaphor of a coin to delve into themes of self-worth and identity. The poem employs vivid imagery and a contemplative tone, inviting readers to reflect on their own sense of value and autonomy. Through introspective musings, Avani captures the tension between societal perceptions and personal freedom, creating a resonant piece that challenges readers to consider their own self-perception.

Tossed Coin

Original Submission by Avani Shinde

I sat legs crossed on my bed

Tossing a coin and catching it

Sound of metals collide when it hit my ring

Picking it up when it fell

I thought, aren't I a bit like this coin

I'm thrown around by humans

Make a sound when I get hurt

When I escape their grasp, I'm pulled back

The coin was shiny and big

Still in a condition feasible to trade

How much longer had I got like that

How much longer till no one will accept me

The coin and I were both worth something

An amount exchangeable for a greater value

It, however, had a fixed amount

I was dependant on the fools around me

I put the coin down and really looked at it

The little symbols and the silver lines

Has anyone observed me like that

Has anyone even tried to see me, really see

I uncrossed my legs, picked up the coin

Left my room and put it on the windowsill

Maybe my mother would take it

Maybe it would stay there, untouched

The coin and me are not the same

The coin is solid and made in a factory

I have no such restrictions

I have the ability to live

I stood in my room

Pacing about on the cold smooth floor

Tossing a coin and catching it

The coin fell and I left it there

I had many more coins

why would this one matter

It wasn't something great

it wasn’t even good, well good enough

I shut the door and locked it, why though

No one should find me in here

The coin will be the only witness this night

I climbed out the window and screamed

I screamed so loud but none heard a thing

Did I make it it up, Did I not scream

Am I imagining the world again am I wrong

Should I see a doctor, should I go to sleep

I took a breath and really felt the air move

My lungs still worked why didnt my heart

Why was my brain dreaming now

Why was I seeing things that didn't happened

My wrists shook as I climbed back in

My foot stopped when I felt something cold

I looked down at the flash of silver

A coin laid on the floor, undisturbed

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a distinguished event celebrating the power of words and creativity. This competition provides a platform for writers and poets from around the world to showcase their talents and express their unique voices. Participants have the opportunity to share their work with a global audience, contributing to a diverse tapestry of literary excellence.

We extend our gratitude to Avani Shinde for sharing "Tossed Coin" with us in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her poem offers profound insights into the complexities of identity and self-worth, encouraging reflection and introspection. Thank you, Avani, for bringing your unique perspective and poetic voice to this competition.

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.