A Stranger's Return - By Frans Angala Amutenya

Written By: Frans Angala Amutenya

Category: poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Frans Angala Amutenya presents "A Stranger's Return," a compelling entry in the poetry category of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This evocative work, emerging from Namibia, explores the universal themes of homecoming and identity. As part of this prestigious international event, Amutenya's poem invites readers to reflect on the personal and emotional journey of returning to one's roots and the complex emotions that accompany such a return.

About the Work

"A Stranger's Return" delves into the intricate feelings of alienation and reconnection experienced upon returning home after an absence. Through vivid imagery and introspective narrative, the poem captures the protagonist's struggle with identity and belonging. The mood is both somber and reflective, combining the longing for familial bonds with the reality of change and growth. Amutenya's literary style is rich in emotion, providing a poignant glimpse into the inner world of a returning stranger.

a strangers return

Original Submission by Frans Angala Amutenya

Title: A Stranger's Return

Author: Frans A. Amutenya

Country: Namibia

Category: Poetry

Email: fransamutenya499@gmail.com

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A Stranger's Return

It is May and I am home.

20 days ago I turned 25.

In 4 days Tate turns 57 —

his birthday awaits,

but everyone is oblivious to this, even him.

I am home after being gone for a year.

The air has named me stranger;

its weight burdens the lungs.

I guess this is punishment

for being gone too long.

I look to the street

that once meant freedom to me

and see nothing but rubble and dirt.

A strange feeling creeps in

as though I am being watched.

I catch Meme staring —

she does not recognize her boy.

I believe this is a scary feeling:

to have given birth to this human

and not know the man that he is.

I turn to find her eyes,

and in a corner of them are questions

her mouth dares not to ask.

I am relieved, for I do not hold those answers.

In the distance, Johnny approaches,

mumbling a song,

dirt-covered, sweat-soaked,

being everything childhood demands of him,

and I am envious.

He greets his mother

and I see a worry leave her.

She has never looked at me like that.

To her, I have always been the strong child.

Little does she know

there are days all I wish to do

is collapse into her arms,

feel the warmth from the skin on her chest

and be her little boy,

be nothing but her child,

and not this person that has to carry a nation.

In her arms, I have always been just a visitor.

I have been the big brother

even before Johnny came,

and Magano can tell you this.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is an esteemed platform celebrating diverse literary talents from around the world. It encourages participants to explore and express their creative voices through poetry and creative writing. This global event aims to foster a community of writers who share a passion for storytelling and artistic expression, offering a unique opportunity for voices to be heard on an international stage.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Frans Angala Amutenya for sharing "A Stranger's Return" with us as part of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Amutenya's poignant exploration of identity and belonging enriches the tapestry of voices in this year's competition. We appreciate the insights and emotions conveyed through this exceptional work and look forward to more contributions from this talented poet.

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.