When a Friend Stole a Friend of Me - By Kausani Pal

Written By: Kausani Pal

Category: Poetry

Competition: Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the poignant poem "When a Friend Stole a Friend of Me," Kausani Pal delves into the complex emotions surrounding friendship and betrayal. As a participant in the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, Kausani offers a heartfelt exploration of trust, loyalty, and the pain of losing a cherished relationship. This submission, under the Poetry category, resonates with anyone who has experienced the bittersweet reality of friendships lost and lessons learned.

About the Work

Kausani Pal's poem captures the essence of betrayal with vivid imagery and emotional depth. The work explores the fragility of trust and the unexpected cost of friendships, weaving a narrative that reflects the raw complexities of human relationships. The poem's tone is somber yet reflective, painting a picture of personal growth through heartache. Through powerful language and metaphor, the poet invites readers to ponder the nature of trust and the impact of betrayal.

When a Friend Stole a Friend of Me

Original Submission by Kausani Pal

When a Friend Stole a Friend from Me

Less did I know that

all the information collected on a subject-

could be disproved in a day.

For I thought I’d read just enough

to know its skin and bones.

When it abandons me midway.

It is about the day,

when a friend stole a friend-

from me.

I’d rather have bled out my heart-

and befriend the devil-

to treasure it.

It is about the time I learnt,

not only does an eye cost an eye,

an arm an arm

and a leg a leg-

but a friend may cost

another friend as well.

With a battered heart

and brain and spirit,

that day I’d come to come to know,

the seeds of love, trust and faith-

are not mine to sow.

That the ailing weakness of the human mind,

is not of memory loss,

but the sheer principle of trust.

A five lettered word,

that does contain in it a greater power-

than any sword or pen known.

That could do worse than killing,

do worse than a known foe.

For an unknown friend,

who stays till the end,

could have all the way twisted in our backs

the dagger which we entrusted them.

When the friend did smile,

who left me behind-

it cast a shadow over the other’s face.

I should have known-

than to have sown-

trust in their garden’s soil.

For it was too late-

to change my fate,

when I did taste the fruit’s vile,

the friend did not sigh

or roll me to life,

when my self did pale to death.

But stole the friend I’d nurtured,

and away with a sneer went-

to dump the other in a flaring vent.

Then the flames did quietly rise,

and engulfed my old confidant,

in its caress.

As with stifled sobs I did die-

I saw my burning friend’s blackened eyes.

That night, the wind rose and

Took the traitor in its hands

We- dead friends- already knew

justice was served out like a bitter brew.

For at the gates of Hell and Heaven, we did meet-

the crying traitor- at our feet.

About the Competition

The Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform for writers to showcase their artistic talents. This annual event celebrates the beauty of the written word, inviting participants from across the globe to contribute their unique voices in poetry and creative writing. With a focus on originality and expression, the competition fosters a diverse community of writers, encouraging creativity and dialogue through literature.

We extend our gratitude to Kausani Pal for sharing the evocative poem "When a Friend Stole a Friend of Me" with us. This piece contributes significantly to the thoughtful discourse of the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. We appreciate Kausani's courage and creativity in expressing such profound themes, and we look forward to witnessing more inspiring works in the future.

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.