Where the Leaves laid - By Mata Aupib

Written By: Mata Aupib

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Mata Aupib presents a powerful piece titled "Where the Leaves laid" in the Poetry category of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This evocative poem explores themes of life, death, and communal traditions, capturing a moment of cultural significance with both reverence and introspection. Through vivid imagery and a contemplative tone, Aupib delves into the complexities of gratitude and sorrow intertwined in the rituals of life.

About the Work

"Where the Leaves laid" is a poignant exploration of the rituals surrounding life and death within a community. Mata Aupib's poem is steeped in tradition, capturing the solemnity and reverence of a communal gathering. Through evocative imagery and a reflective narrative, the poem conveys the tension between gratitude and sorrow, highlighting the intricate balance of life’s tenderness and brutality. The work invites readers to ponder the shared human experience of sacrifice and survival.

Where the Leaves laid

Original Submission by Mata Aupib

Where the Leaves Were Laid

It was a day of celebration.

People were already gathering in the yard,

men moving with purpose,

voices low, measured,

as they prepared the space for what was coming.

Large green leaves were laid across the ground,

broad and cool, arranged side by side,

set carefully into place

so when the cow was brought forward

its body would not fall to bare earth.

The men worked with steady hands,

because this was how it had always been done,

because all life was to be treated with respect,

even at the edge of its leaving.

Only when the ground was ready

did they lead the cow into the yard

People gathered.

Voices rose in prayer.

The animal cried out,

and the sound entered me

in a place I did not yet have words for.

They said it would feed the whole village.

They said this was blessing,

this was goodness,

this was how we stayed alive together.

Still, I listened to its cries

and did not know

how to feel

gratitude

and sorrow

at the same time.

When it was over,

the women gathered behind me,

and an argument rose

over who would take the genitals.

They said it made the sweetest soup,

that it gave men strength for years.

In the end it was divided

carefully, deliberately,

as if strength itself

were being shared in bowls.

The meat tremored when it was lifted.

It moved even after death.

For days it was stored,

carried,

eaten.

Fresh meat smelled like earth opening,

not like the clean silence of packaged flesh,

but like something

that had once breathed.

Knives were washed in metal bowls.

Smoke lifted into the sky.

The red earth darkened,

then rinsed itself clean.

A child stood very still,

learning that life can hold

tenderness and brutality

at the same time.

I carry the memory

not as judgement,

not as praise,

but as what it was

a day when we stayed alive together,

and the knowing of what we gained

and what was lost

has lived inside me

ever since.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform celebrating diverse voices and creative expression. It brings together poets and writers globally to share their unique perspectives and stories. This competition honors the art of storytelling in all its forms, encouraging participants to push the boundaries of their creativity and engage with audiences worldwide.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Mata Aupib for sharing "Where the Leaves laid" with us. Your contribution to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 enriches the tapestry of voices and stories we celebrate. Your thoughtful portrayal of life’s complexities is a testament to the power of poetry to capture and convey profound truths.

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.