What is Love When It Cannot Stay - By Chumisa Theodora Zantsi

Written By: Chumisa Theodora Zantsi

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Chumisa Theodora Zantsi presents a deeply moving poem titled "What is Love When It Cannot Stay" as part of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This evocative piece, submitted under the Poetry category, delves into the ephemeral nature of love and its haunting aftermath. The poem's exploration of themes such as love, loss, and the passage of time is characteristic of Zantsi's introspective style, inviting readers to reflect on the transient beauty and profound impact of love that cannot endure.

About the Work

"What is Love When It Cannot Stay" weaves a tapestry of emotions, unraveling the delicate threads of love and loss. The imagery of ash, shadows, and whispers creates a somber mood, while the repetition of the titular question emphasizes the poem's central theme of impermanence. Zantsi's use of poignant language and evocative metaphors invites readers to contemplate the fragility of relationships and the enduring pain of unfulfilled promises.

What is Love When It Cannot Stay

Original Submission by Chumisa Theodora Zantsi

What Is Love When It Cannot Stay?

Ash drifts slowly, carried away

songs of promise forgotten each day.

A heart is broken, its silence displayed

but what is love when it cannot stay?

Whispers are spoken, hollow and thin

echoes of sorrow that drown within.

Laughter is fractured, grief on display

but what is love when it cannot stay?

Shadows are heavy, pressing the air

truth is distorted, nothing is fair.

The bond is etched, though carved in decay

but what is love when it cannot stay?

Hands never offered, voices concealed

touch never given, wounds never healed.

Hope is a ghost that flickers away

but what is love when it cannot stay?

Promises vanish, trust turns to stone,

songs left unfinished, hearts left alone.

The question repeats, it will not obey

what is love when it cannot stay?

Resilience hums, but the song is torn

a melody broken, a silence worn.

The echo lingers, refusing to sway

but what is love when it cannot stay?

No triumph rises, no light is found

only the weight of absence profound.

The question circles, night into day

what is love when it cannot stay?

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, is a celebration of literary talent from around the world. This prestigious event provides a platform for poets and writers to showcase their creative expressions and engage with a global audience. Participants contribute works that reflect diverse themes and styles, enriching the literary landscape with their unique voices and perspectives.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Chumisa Theodora Zantsi for sharing "What is Love When It Cannot Stay" with us. Your contribution to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 highlights the power of poetry to capture the complexities of human emotions. Thank you for gracing us with your artistic vision.

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.