Anthrax Poisoning - By Angelica Späth

Written By: Angelica Späth

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Angelica Späth presents a powerful and evocative poem titled "Anthrax Poisoning," a profound entry in the Poetry category of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This competition is a celebration of creativity and writing from around the world. Angelica's piece invites readers to explore the intricate dance between choice, consequence, and the haunting allure of self-destruction. Her work poignantly captures the human experience through vivid imagery and emotional depth.

About the Work

"Anthrax Poisoning" delves deep into themes of compulsion and the cyclical nature of addiction. The poem's mood is intense and reflective, portraying a haunting inner turmoil and the struggle between desire and destruction. Angelica's literary style is raw and vivid, utilizing stark imagery to convey the visceral experience of the protagonist. The poem's message is both poignant and unsettling, exploring the notion of self-inflicted harm as a dark form of solace.

Anthrax Poisoning

Original Submission by Angelica Späth

Anthrax Poisoning

The first time she was here, It wasn’t a choice.

This time, She comes back on purpose.

The first time A void opened in her arm- An itch like razors. Skin collapsing inward Under the orbit of her nails.

She scratched Until blood came up like rust.

The first time She only brushed the spores By accident, Dust drifting through a careless breath.

This time She stares at the stranger in the mirror,

Powder on glass. A blade carving it thin.

Granules cling to her fingertips. She smoothes the edges.

Tap. Dust falls away.

She breathes. In. Out.

Hands shaking.

Knowing.

Nose against the glass. Neat rows of spores.

It burns sweet and rotten behind the nose, like breathing in a grave.

She tells herself she needs it.

The way lungs need air. The way wounds need fingers.

Heat, comforting. Her heart ignites in her ribs. Here she is again. Her place.

Numbness spreading through her nose. Through her fingertips.

For a moment, she is a god. Nobody can hurt her. No one would dare touch her blackened skin.

Spores bloom inside her chest. Soft at first- then hungry.

Roots in the lungs. Tendrils in the bloodstream. A slow constellation of rot blooming through her ribs.

Heart. Stomach. Bone.

She knows exactly what it is. Poison.

Still. Another line.

Anthrax- like mercy, like something she deserves.

Anthrax- like love, the only thing that has ever wanted her back.

Tomorrow, it will want her again. And she will come.

Same place. Same time. Same blade. Same glass.

Cut. Breathe. In. Out.

Burn. Rush. Crash. Decay. Shame.

Repeat.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform that showcases diverse literary voices from across the globe. Participants submit works that span a variety of genres, including poetry, short stories, and essays. This competition serves as a valuable opportunity for writers to share their unique perspectives and connect with a wider audience, fostering a global appreciation for the craft of writing.

We extend our sincere gratitude to Angelica Späth for her contribution to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. "Anthrax Poisoning" stands as a remarkable testament to her ability to convey profound emotion and complexity through poetry. We appreciate her sharing this powerful and evocative work with us, enriching the competition with her unique voice and perspective.

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.