Transference - By Lei Ka Man

Written By: Lei Ka Man

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, Lei Ka Man presents "Transference," a profound poetic exploration within the Poetry category. Drawing from the rituals of Chinese Buddhist funeral ceremonies, the piece delves into themes of spiritual guidance and personal introspection. The poem resonates with the contemplative nature of spiritual traditions, reflecting on the complexities of faith, ritual, and personal liberation. Lei Ka Man's work invites readers into a world where reverence meets skepticism, framed by cultural heritage and individual reflection.

About the Work

"Transference" weaves a tapestry of emotions and spiritual musings, exploring the intricate balance between reverence and doubt. Lei Ka Man's use of vivid imagery and rhythmic cadence encapsulates the essence of a Buddhist ritual, juxtaposing solemnity with personal yearning. The poem's rich cultural references offer a window into the rituals' symbolic meanings while questioning their efficacy. Through evocative language, the poem invites readers to ponder the nature of spiritual journeys and the search for liberation.

Transference

Original Submission by Lei Ka Man

Contextual Note for “Transference”

This poem draws from the rituals of Chinese Buddhist funeral ceremonies, specifically the “transference of merit” performed by monks to guide the deceased toward liberation. The speaker, however, is caught between reverence and irreverence: grieving, hungry, overwhelmed by incense and chanting, and skeptical of the performance. The poem asks whether such rituals can truly transfer anything at all, or whether we remain forever “framed in a frame”, crossing a bridge we never fully reach.

Transference

by Lei Ka Man

I was still crossing the bridge and had not yet reached. Picturing myself in a frame, I saw you offering me alms. I could not ask for more, thunderous drumming coverage, stammering cadence of scriptures. The realms, the paths, the repentance, the sutra, the vows. I rolled my eyes, left to right, up and down. Would that be too long to break free?

“I’m hungry.”

Oh, I heard the doctrine again. Your eyes were bloodshot, burnt in the smoke. In your mind, monastic code. Ensuring a five-star rating, you took. I followed; your kin would be good. I still had unresolved issues. So did you.

I was still thinking: “And our being, the like suggested, a liberation from samsara.”

Be faithful. There came a natural fruition under the bodhi, for your ancestors, family, and…

“I’m thirsty.”

Your mouth shut, but your rapid-fire lips murmured names I was familiar with, some were not. I saw my dad, a heavy drinker, with a nose to light candles at. My aunt cried until her tears ran dry. I felt intense, geezed up by the incense. Maybe I inhaled too much, a bit much for an inexperienced one.

Rice, pork ribs, cauliflower, Tang Dynasty wine, and mineral water, all now toasted oak. Luckily, no drool at the corner of my mouth. In my possession rested only joss paper. Anyway, I should have learnt to be patient when I was a kid.

Oops. I wished to remind those around to watch over you, perform hand gestures, recite mantras, in exhaustion, weary and gradually slumping.

“Would you like to eat something? Like netherworld paper?”

You needed something, something out of anything. Indeed, anything out of nothing at all after all.

Unexpectedly, you turned out to be the most attentive, the one who walked with me to the last mile.

“Thank you. May you always have safe travels, peace in your grandchildren.”

Two hours had passed without a blink or a nod, admiring myself in awe.

“Have I reached another bridge yet? Have I reached the final destination?”

All vanished like mist and clouds. All transcended. All of a sudden. The job was done.

You then embarked on the next performance anew, swiftly.

“Wait! Transferred yet? I am still framed in a frame.”

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar welcomes participants worldwide to share their unique voices and literary talents. This prestigious event celebrates diverse expressions of creativity, offering a platform for poets, writers, and artists to present their work to a global audience. The competition fosters cultural exchange and artistic growth, encouraging participants to explore and expand the boundaries of their creative expression.

We extend our gratitude to Lei Ka Man for sharing "Transference" with us in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your introspective exploration of cultural rituals and spiritual reflection enriches the tapestry of poetic expression. We appreciate your contribution and look forward to witnessing your continued journey in the world of poetry and creative writing.

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.