A Father's Fall - By Frans Amutenya

Written By: Frans Amutenya

Category: poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Frans Amutenya presents "A Father's Fall," an evocative piece in the poetry category for the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. With roots in Namibia, Amutenya explores themes of justice, parental anguish, and the burden of conscience. His work reflects the complex interplay between duty and emotion, capturing the emotional dissonance experienced by those who enforce the law and those affected by it.

About the Work

"A Father's Fall" is a poignant exploration of the human condition, weaving together vivid imagery and introspective narrative. Frans Amutenya skillfully captures the inner turmoil of a man caught between duty and moral struggle. The poem's stark imagery, from the chilling description of a courtroom to the poignant interaction with a father, creates a tapestry of emotions, compelling readers to reflect on the nature of justice and familial bonds.

A Father`s Fall

Original Submission by Frans Amutenya

Title: A Father's Fall

Author: Frans A. Amutenya

Country: Namibia

Category: Poetry

Email: fransamutenya499@gmail.com

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A Father's Fall

It's not August yet,

but the east wind is here

proclaiming its coming.

The dust it carries

takes the form of sprinkled gold.

The day breathes frost at dawn,

then forgets by noon.

I am waiting for spring.

The day is less than I asked for.

In four hours I meet a Damara man

with the calmest eyes,

but in his moment I am reading a man his rights:

"You have the right to remain silent,

but if you choose to speak,

what you say will be taken down in writing

and can and may be used against you

in the court of law.

You have the right to legal counsel of your choice

at your own cost,

and if you cannot afford one,

you can apply for legal aid from the state.

If bail is not granted to you,

you have the right to apply for it."

He smiles as though he has conquered something.

I look to him but do not see his face —

I am filled with rage.

I walk him to the cells.

The darkness engulfs us

as we enter the corridor.

At his back I think to myself:

"I could shoot him right here, right now,

and rid the world of this great evil."

Meme's voice from a corner of my mind

poses the question:

"And how would you be any different?"

I open the cell door

and give him to the cold.

They burden me with informing the next of kin.

I meet a man with the calmest eyes.

He shakes my hand and offers me a seat.

How do I tell a father his son is a monster?

I stare at him wordless,

my eyes avoiding his,

until I catch his wife's gaze —

and her eyes already know.

I guess mothers always know.

I tell him his son has been arrested,

my voice begging for forgiveness

as though it has done something wrong.

He rests into the chair

when I mention the crime.

I see red invading his eyes.

He exhales as though to empty his lungs of defeat.

There is this look on his face —

I don't know whether it is guilt or betrayal.

We sit silent for a moment,

and the silence settles

like an easier kind of acceptance.

My mouth gets this bitter taste.

Who was to know words have flavour?

How could such a gentle soul sire a monster?

Here the gods were unkind.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, is a celebration of literary talent from around the world. This prestigious event brings together poets and writers, offering them a platform to share their voices and unique perspectives. The competition honors creativity and the power of words, shining a light on diverse narratives and fostering a global community of literary enthusiasts.

We extend our gratitude to Frans Amutenya for sharing "A Father's Fall" with us. His participation in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 enriches the conversation on justice and parental responsibility. Thank you, Frans, for your thoughtful contribution to this global literary celebration.

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.