Whisper - By Qaanita Surtie

Written By: Qaanita Surtie

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In her evocative poem "Whisper," Qaanita Surtie, writing under the name Whisper, offers readers a poignant journey through the themes of love, loss, and cherished memories. As a participant in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, Qaanita presents a heartfelt tribute to a beloved childhood companion. Her piece captures the bittersweet essence of parting and enduring affection, resonating deeply with anyone who has loved and lost.

About the Work

"Whisper" is a tender reflection on the bond between a child and her pet, a giant pit bull with a heart as gentle as it is large. Through vivid imagery and emotional depth, Qaanita Surtie paints a portrait of unconditional love and the pain of saying goodbye. The poem is rich with nostalgia, filled with memories of joyful play and shared companionship, culminating in a moving farewell that lingers long after the final lines.

Whisper

Original Submission by Qaanita Surtie

Whisper

I was only four

when you came into my world,

a giant pit bull with paws too big,

a tail that never stopped wagging,

and a heart so gentle

it never fit inside your body.

You were so huge

that every time you jumped on me,

I'd end up flat on the ground,

laughing while you stood above me,

proud of yourself,

thinking you had won.

I still remember the day

you bit a tiny kitten.

I was furious.

For months I called you a monster,

refusing to forgive you.

But monsters don't love the way you did.

Monsters don't greet every person

like they're an old friend.

The whole neighbourhood knew that.

You looked scary-

strong,

muscular,

intimidating-

but every kid on our street

ran to you instead of away.

They played with you,

fed you treats,

rubbed your big blocky head,

because everyone knew the truth.

You weren't frightening.

You were an angel

wearing the body of a giant.

Then came the day

our hearts had to make a choice

they never wanted to make.

You kept escaping the yard,

and no matter how hard we tried,

we couldn't keep you safe.

We searched for months

before we found the perfect home-

a huge yard,

other dogs to play with,

an owner who would love you

as much as we always had.

We knew it was the right thing.

But knowing

doesn't make goodbye easier.

When they came to take you,

I couldn't move.

I couldn't hug you.

I couldn't call your name.

I couldn't say goodbye.

I just stood there,

frozen,

and watched the truck disappear

with my best friend inside.

That memory still follows me.

Sometimes I wonder

if you looked back for me.

If you waited for one last pat.

If you thought I didn't love you

because I never came.

If only you could have heard

what my heart was screaming.

I loved you so much

that I couldn't bear

to watch you leave.

For months afterward,

I cried every single day,

trying to understand

how someone could still exist

and yet be so impossibly gone.

And I wasn't the only one who missed you.

Bella would walk to the door,

then wander over to your empty kennel,

curl up inside it,

and wait.

Day after day.

As if she believed

you'd come running back through the gate,

tail wagging,

ready to knock us all over again.

Watching her wait

broke my heart all over.

Years have passed,

but some love never learns

how to leave.

I still think of you.

I still miss the sound of your paws,

your giant hugs,

your gentle eyes.

And I still carry one regret-

not that we found you another home.

Not that we chose what was best for you.

But that I never found the strength

to whisper,

"Goodbye, my boy."

So let me say it now.

Goodbye, Whisper.

Thank you for growing up beside me.

Thank you for every muddy paw print,

every tackle that sent me flying,

every memory that still makes me smile through tears.

I hope your days are filled

with endless fields to run,

dogs to play with,

people who adored you,

and all the love

you spent your whole life giving away.

No matter where life took you,

you will always be my childhood.

And if love can find its way across time and distance,

then I hope somehow you knew-

I never stopped loving you.

Not for a single day.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform celebrating diverse voices in literature. It encourages writers and poets worldwide to share their unique stories and perspectives, fostering a global community of creative expression. The competition is known for its inclusivity and commitment to nurturing emerging talent, providing participants with an opportunity to showcase their work on an international stage.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Qaanita Surtie for sharing "Whisper" with us in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This touching poem captures the essence of a cherished friendship and the enduring impact of love. Thank you, Qaanita, for enriching our competition with your beautiful words and poignant storytelling.

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.