There was a time when my nights stretched endlessly, illuminated by the neon glow of a screen, fingers locked onto a controller, lost in virtual worlds that offered adventure, competition, and escape. Video games had been my refuge—a place where I could be anything, conquer challenges, and feel that gratifying sense of achievement. But over time, I felt something shift. The victories became hollow, the immersion fleeting. I began to wonder: Was I truly growing, or was I just looping through different levels of the same experience?
The transition wasn’t sudden, nor was it easy. Video games had given me so much—memories, friendships, even a sense of identity. But one evening, as I stared at the screen, the spark just wasn’t there anymore. I needed something more, something deeper. That’s when poetry entered my life.
I had always admired the power of words, but I never considered myself a poet. At first, it felt unnatural, almost intimidating. Unlike video games, where I followed a designed path, poetry had no set objectives, no checkpoints, no leaderboards. It was just me and the page. But as I wrote, I realized poetry was offering something video games never could: a connection to my own emotions, a way to make sense of my experiences, and an avenue for self-expression that wasn’t limited by rules or mechanics.
Poetry became my new adventure. Instead of grinding for in-game rewards, I was chasing the perfect metaphor. Instead of memorizing game mechanics, I was exploring different poetic forms. And rather than seeking digital achievements, I found fulfillment in crafting verses that resonated with others. It wasn’t about winning anymore—it was about creating, feeling, and understanding.
Looking back, I don’t regret the years spent in virtual worlds. They taught me storytelling, patience, and strategy. But evolving from that phase led me to something far more meaningful. And now, I want to help others make that transition—whether they’re outgrowing video games, seeking a new creative outlet, or simply looking for a fresh challenge.
If you’ve ever felt the urge to create, to express, to dive into something profoundly human, I invite you to explore poetry with me. Every month, I host a poetry contest where writers—new and experienced alike—can share their words, challenge themselves, and connect with a community that values creative expression. If you’re ready to embark on a new journey, consider submitting a poem. Who knows? You might just find the spark you didn’t know you were missing.
Join the contest here: World Poetry Publishing Prize Contest
