无刀无剑有江湖 - By Jennice Yap Yi Han

Written By: Jennice Yap Yi Han

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, Jennice Yap Yi Han brings us "无刀无剑有江湖," a thought-provoking piece in the Poetry category. This evocative work delves into themes of personal growth and cultural reflection, capturing the essence of life's journey and the transitions one experiences. With a writing style that is both poignant and rich in imagery, Jennice's contribution is a beautiful exploration of identity and time.

About the Work

"无刀无剑有江湖" is an exquisite tapestry of imagery and emotion. Through the use of metaphor and vivid descriptions, Jennice Yap Yi Han explores the stages of life, from youthful ambition to the tranquility of maturity. The poem's mood is reflective, capturing the essence of life's inevitable changes and the enduring search for meaning. It is an invitation to ponder the intersections of past and present, with each line resonating with cultural depth and personal introspection.

无刀无剑有江湖

Original Submission by Jennice Yap Yi Han

无刀无剑有江湖

一笔落，雨林簌簌，

未展的宣纸窸窣作响——

起笔处，是母语咿呀，

是啼哭破风，混着河泥的墨。

像在独木舟首悬着

将滴未滴

的晨露。

风啸！风啸！

墨色飞溅处，少年提剑而立。

对手是命数，是不甘与渴望，

七巷八铺的市声，

拉让江湾的水纹，

都成了剑谱的注脚。

而今回首，笑看老街旧友，早已两行。

——青春如榴莲坠地，

最难，是拾起那初绽的香甜。

墨色浓，岁月深，

中年如山，刀剑归鞘。

对手是责任，是夜半惊醒的梦。

是孩子牵你的手，是无声的问。

我不再画风雪江湖，

改画逐渐消失的硕莪树，

画猫城雨季的屋檐。

画她微颤的身影，

拎着胡椒粒和椰糖，

换我千山万水，也只为这一味归心。

留白处坐着旧我，

他的剑还在鞘中发烫。

如今看他，只余一笑，

我提笔回望，

拉让江的舟影，

渐渐游成病历上的曲线。

——所谓成长，不过在一纸光阴上，

临摹那年少时，

猫城黄昏巷尾

隐去的炊烟。

云水意，光阴浅。

最后的对手是流年、无常、病痛。

我们终是无刃的一代，

却在在槟榔摊前，

在芭蕉叶渐渐蜷曲的边沿，

犀鸟掠天的清鸣，

与转身的片刻，

藏下最锋利的——

根。

这册江湖啊，

开头写着"闯荡"，

结尾记着"家常"。

且看那：

未干的墨迹映着黄泥路的晚霞，

每一滴，

都是朝阳。

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform celebrating the rich tapestry of human expression. It invites participants worldwide to share their unique voices and stories through poetry, short stories, and essays. Focused on fostering creativity and cultural exchange, the competition is a beacon for both emerging and established writers, offering a stage for diverse narratives and innovative literary art.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Jennice Yap Yi Han for her contribution to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her poem "无刀无剑有江湖" is a compelling testament to the power of language and introspection. Jennice's work enriches the tapestry of voices that make this competition a celebration of creativity and human connection.

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.