Wood and Stone - By Ayesha

Written By: Ayesha

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Ayesha presents a heartrending piece titled "Wood and Stone" in the Poetry category, part of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This competition showcases diverse voices and experiences from across the globe. Ayesha's poem delves into themes of loss, resilience, and the haunting aftermath of conflict, inviting readers to contemplate the profound impact of war on the innocent.

About the Work

"Wood and Stone" is a vivid portrayal of the harsh realities experienced by young girls amidst turmoil. Ayesha paints a powerful image of innocence lost and dreams deferred through evocative language and stark imagery. The poem's repetitive structure emphasizes the ongoing nature of the girls' plight, while the juxtaposition of childhood innocence with the brutality of conflict leaves a lasting impression.

Wood and Stone

Original Submission by Ayesha

Wood and Stone

The little girls sleep on the mattresses,

Made by the flesh and bones of their brothers,

Marked by the scarlet river flowing upstream,

Hearing the cries of their besieged mothers.

The little girls sleep on the mattresses,

Made by the shards of their houses,

Their broken toys lie scattered on the ground,

A faint ichor spread over their blouses.

The little girls sleep on the mattresses,

Made by the books they once read,

The school remains a school no more,

But a memory inked with dread.

The little girls sleep on the mattresses,

Made by the aroma of sustenance,

Destroyed by the greed of a few,

Those in power and their incompetence.

The little girls sleep on the mattresses,

Made by the sounds of explosions overhead,

Wounds left open and minds broken,

Filled by the voices of the dead.

The little girls sleep on the mattresses,

Made by the shattered pieces of their souls,

What once was their desired future,

Now left as dreams untold.

Peace bringers and peace keepers marching in,

Barging inside the hearths and the homes,

The little girls sleep on the mattresses,

Now made of wood and stone.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, celebrates the art of poetry and storytelling by bringing together creative minds from around the world. This prestigious event highlights the power of words to transcend boundaries and connect individuals through shared experiences and imaginative expression.

We extend our gratitude to Ayesha for sharing "Wood and Stone" as part of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her touching portrayal of human resilience and the enduring spirit of the innocent amidst adversity is both poignant and thought-provoking. Thank you, Ayesha, for your contribution to this global celebration of creativity.

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.