When The Locks Shall Break - By Aadhil Ahamedh

Written By: Aadhil Ahamedh

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, Aadhil Ahamedh brings us "When The Locks Shall Break," a poignant piece rich with emotion and depth. This poem, a part of the Poetry category, delves into themes of hope, liberation, and the enduring power of art. Through vivid imagery and profound reflections, Ahamedh invites readers to envision a future where creativity and freedom triumph over oppression.

About the Work

"When The Locks Shall Break" is a masterful exploration of resilience and hope. Aadhil Ahamedh employs vivid imagery and a lyrical style to convey a powerful message of liberation and renewal. The poem's mood is both somber and uplifting, weaving a narrative that speaks to the heart of human struggle and the relentless pursuit of justice. Through symbolic elements like the olive tree and drums, it captures the essence of a world yearning for peace and freedom.

When The Locks Shall Break

Original Submission by Aadhil Ahamedh

When The Locks Shall Break

The red ink is blotted,

spilling across with agony.

Once a celebrated calligraphy -

now locked in winter’s prisons.

A people who taught art

now re-taught what they knew,

while the world signs

in pure calligraphy fonts;

without a cut in hand.

All we pray for is a day

when red is no more;

in its place, bright blue;

with a crescent and a star.

On the other side,

not in red, but in blue,

flowed a river great -

once nurse to every nation's dawn,

now one that forgot to flow.

Her neck strangled by strings

of sharp thorns and barbed pain;

but someday the pride of Kush

shall overcome the dust’s harsh reign.

On that day shall fly high a flag

of red, white, black, and green,

and three words forever echo:

Freedom, Peace, and Justice.

Meanwhile stands tall

an olive tree with roots

deep in soil soaked

with the blood of the brave.

But tied are her roots,

locked are her branches,

yet she teaches the stones

how to pray.

The doves that forgot the path

will never forget to fly,

and one day they’ll find their way

to the olive groves and golden dust.

And locked too is the drum,

carved from the ribs of earth -

land of red soil that bleeds blue,

and diamonds that forgot to shine.

Someday the locks shall break, and the drums shall beat,

the diamonds shall shine,

the night sky too shall turn blue with stars golden and a bleeding moon.

Shall come soon a day when

the drums beat loud,

branches sway to the lightest breeze, and the rivers flow with pride,

while the arts shall raise its head.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar celebrates the richness of global literary arts. This prestigious event invites writers and poets from around the world to share their voices and stories, fostering a vibrant community of creativity and expression. Participants are encouraged to explore diverse themes and styles, contributing to a tapestry of inspiring and thought-provoking works.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Aadhil Ahamedh for sharing "When The Locks Shall Break" with us in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your evocative words and profound imagery have left a lasting impression, reminding us of the transformative power of art and the enduring strength of the human spirit.

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.