A Conversation We All Avoid - By Sinenhlanhla Maswanganye

Written By: Sinenhlanhla Maswanganye

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the evocative poem "A Conversation We All Avoid," Sinenhlanhla Maswanganye delves into the complexities of self-worth and societal pressures. As a participant in the esteemed Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, Maswanganye's work represents a poignant exploration within the poetry category. The piece invites readers to reflect on the values and perceptions surrounding desire and identity in contemporary society.

About the Work

Sinenhlanhla Maswanganye's "A Conversation We All Avoid" presents a contemplative examination of how self-worth is perceived and valued. The poem utilizes striking imagery and rhetorical questions to challenge the reader's understanding of confidence, desire, and identity. With an introspective tone, it calls into question the societal norms that equate personal value with external validation, urging a deeper conversation about genuine self-appreciation.

A Conversation We All Avoid

Original Submission by Sinenhlanhla Maswanganye

The Conversation Everybody Avoids

by Sinenhlanhla Maswanganye.

when did lust

become a personality?

When did being desired

become a trophy?

When did

"body counts",

"link ups"

and

"pulling someone"

start meaning

status?

Some of you

haven't learned

to love yourselves,

yet you've mastered

how to make strangers

want your body.

You call it

confidence.

A flex.

But who taught you

your worth

could be measured

by who wants you?

The internet

claps.

The comments say,

"You're eating."

"They're obsessed."

"You won."

Won what exactly?

Attention?

Validation?

A few seconds

of being wanted?

Because being wanted

has never meant

being safe.

Predators rarely

look like monsters.

Sometimes they arrive

with compliments,

patience,

and the exact words

you wanted to hear.

So no,

I'm not saying

don't fall in love.

I'm saying

learn the difference

between someone

who protects your heart

and someone

who only wants

your body.

One helps you grow.

The other

consumes you.

Lust makes you

a victim, sweety.

Not a grown matured

person that you

think you are.

But I guess

that's the conversation

y'all ain't ready for.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform celebrating the diverse voices and talents of writers worldwide. This competition encourages participants to explore and express their creativity through poetry, short stories, essays, and creative writing, fostering a global community of literary enthusiasts and artists.

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to Sinenhlanhla Maswanganye for their thought-provoking submission, "A Conversation We All Avoid." Participating in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, Maswanganye's work contributes significantly to the ongoing dialogue about self-worth and societal values. Thank you for sharing your voice and perspective with us.

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.