War for Air - By Neo Abrahams

Written By: Neo Abrahams

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Neo Abrahams presents "War for Air," a powerful piece submitted to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. In the realm of poetry, this work delves into the relentless battle for life and breath, exploring themes of struggle and persistence. Abrahams' writing captures the profound and often unseen conflicts that shape human existence.

About the Work

"War for Air" encapsulates the perpetual fight for survival, employing vivid imagery and emotional depth. The poem's tone is urgent and defiant, highlighting the innate human drive to overcome adversity and claim one's place in the world. Through evocative language, Neo Abrahams draws readers into the personal and universal journey of battling unseen forces.

War for Air

Original Submission by Neo Abrahams

War for Air

Blue in the face when I was born,

Slapped in my back, sparking the first fight ever fought,

For the grain of air denied, that I clawed for,

Never willingly sought that but I was unjustly caught in the storm,

No backing down I ever have thought.

Been fighting since the emergence from the womb,

With no fear of entering a trip to my tomb.

Lungs of iron forged in the war undesired,

Age 7, declaring the war of air officially fired,

But there’s no ending to the overall nightmare,

Gaining lots of military fanfare.

Repeatedly stared down the void of death,

Sleeping in the ER, chest elevated to take one more breath,

The demons take their devious steps,

But I fought tooth and nail,

With the trial and down falling tribulation,

Without fail.

I’m unstoppable,

Capable of gritty survival

Of brutal demonic bodily assaults,

Creating in my mind, body and soul

A battle–

Or should I say a war

For my sanity, and for God’s abundant air.

Stand and stare in my eyes,

You think you grow up to stand and fight,

While growing or once grown with full sense of sight,

But I was born fighting for air.

War for Air.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, brings together writers from around the globe, celebrating the diversity and depth of contemporary literature. This prestigious event provides a platform for emerging and established voices to share their unique perspectives and creative expressions with a worldwide audience.

We extend our gratitude to Neo Abrahams for sharing the compelling "War for Air" in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your poignant exploration of life's battles resonates deeply, and we appreciate your contribution to this literary celebration.

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.