Withered Gardens - By Cassidy Naidoo

Written By: Cassidy Naidoo

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Cassidy Naidoo presents a poignant piece titled "Withered Gardens" in the Poetry category for the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This evocative work explores themes of longing and unfulfilled potential, capturing readers' imaginations with its vivid imagery and emotional depth. Cassidy's contribution is a testament to the power of poetry to convey complex and unspoken emotions.

About the Work

"Withered Gardens" is a reflective exploration of longing and the pain of unfulfilled desires. Cassidy Naidoo uses rich imagery and subtle emotion to paint a picture of a garden that fades before its full bloom. The poem's mood is tinged with melancholy, capturing the essence of opportunities lost and the harsh truths of fate. Through its delicate language, it invites readers to contemplate the beauty and transience of life's fleeting moments.

Withered Gardens

Original Submission by Cassidy Naidoo

Withered Gardens

You hold my gaze like an open secret

An unspoken oath

which hovers in the atmosphere

How agonising, to pine from such proximity

This withering garden, only just cultivated,

Must fade before first fruit

Such is fate –

The blossoming of a flower on the wrong side of the fence.

c.k.n

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform celebrating diverse voices in poetry and creative writing. It welcomes participants worldwide to share their unique perspectives through the written word, fostering a global community of literary enthusiasts and emerging talents.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Cassidy Naidoo for sharing "Withered Gardens" with us in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This evocative poem enriches our understanding of the delicate dance between desire and destiny. We look forward to seeing more of Cassidy's nuanced and compelling work 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.