What Remains - By Madison Dean

Written By: Madison Dean

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Madison Dean presents a poignant piece entitled "What Remains" as part of the Poetry category in the renowned Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This reflective work explores themes of heritage, identity, and the passage of time, inviting readers to ponder the intertwining of past and present. Dean's evocative imagery and contemplative tone capture the essence of what remains when history and personal identity converge.

About the Work

"What Remains" by Madison Dean delves into the complexity of identity and heritage, painting a vivid landscape of memory and reflection. Through rich imagery, Dean contrasts the vibrancy of the past with the muted tones of the present, questioning the weight of legacy and the essence of personal freedom. The poem's thoughtful structure and flowing rhythm guide readers through a journey of introspection and discovery.

What Remains

Original Submission by Madison Dean

What Remains

Golden fireflies flicker by,

Dancing across the inky sky.

The water, reflecting the galaxy above,

Ripples only near where I lay,

Escaping the monotony of the day.

***

The ember sun, alight with daytime life,

Flickers among hills void of nighttime strife,

Bringing with it sparkling morning bliss.

Towering stone walls glow a burning scarlet,

Rivalled only by a ruby gown, and gold accents upon it.

Intricate knots twist their way through my hair.

Golden jewellery accompanies a dress I’m forced to wear.

This way of life means everything, so I’m told.

But without freedom, how can I know what I’d choose?

In every life, would I have chosen status, with everything to lose?

I’m told to feel important. I was powerful before I was born.

But my importance is a cage–forbidding me to run or laugh or mourn.

Expectation hid my childish interests, shrouding them with manners and grace.

My days are spent sitting for paintings, granting me “eternal youth.”

My surname encased in silver ensures status remains our truth.

Glowing silver leaves surround an ornate name.

Framed by my hands, the shield bears the colour of a flame.

Azure creatures dance across it, their leader bearing a crown.

The glamorous crest, inside a box painted plum,

Is said to preserve our story for years to come.

***

Faded silver leaves part for a dusty name.

Framed by my hands, azure animals dance along its frame.

Finally looking up rewards me with decay–

A fading world absent of the past’s vivid hues,

Filled now with flickering computer light of fading blues.

The name was never mine–Grandma had it last.

Should I feel belonging to something so far past?

I know them only as characters, though I feel I know more.

How did they think? In bright hills, what did they see?

Would they still recognize themselves in me?

Looking backward makes you look forward too,

Toward what you hope is shiny and new.

Toward golden fireflies and rolling hills,

Hoping that the world is brighter when someone looks through

Your memories and wonders if you’d recognize them too.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, is a prestigious platform celebrating literary excellence from around the world. Participants showcase their creativity and narrative prowess, contributing to a vibrant tapestry of global voices and stories. The competition stands as a testament to the power of words and the shared human experience.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Madison Dean for sharing "What Remains" with us in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your contribution adds depth and resonance to our collective understanding of identity and heritage. We 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.