Ashes Beneath the Cloak - By Chumisa Theodora Zantsi

Written By: Chumisa Theodora Zantsi

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In "Ashes Beneath the Cloak," Chumisa Theodora Zantsi offers a compelling poetic exploration of societal norms and hidden truths. As part of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, this piece delves into themes of justice, tradition, and the human condition. Zantsi's work stands as a reflection on the complexities of human behavior and the societal constructs that bind them.

About the Work

Chumisa Zantsi's "Ashes Beneath the Cloak" weaves a tapestry of vivid imagery and poignant critique. The poem navigates through themes of hypocrisy, gender disparity, and the enduring scars of tradition. With a tone that is both contemplative and incisive, Zantsi uses powerful metaphors and evocative language to challenge ingrained societal structures, urging the reader to look beyond the surface.

Ashes Beneath the Cloak

Original Submission by Chumisa Theodora Zantsi

Ashes Beneath the Cloak

They call it nature, as if hunger were holy, as if desire were scripture,

as if betrayal could be baptized in the waters of excuse.

They stand in temples of virtue, chanting humility,

wearing robes of reverence— but the robe is thin,

and beneath it, the ash of hidden fires clings to the skin.

One law for the womb, another for the seed.

One burden for the vessel, another for the hand that spills.

If she falters, she is ruin, if he strays, he is conqueror.

The scales are carved crooked,

and justice is blindfolded by tradition’s hand.

In the circle of kin, gestures linger too long,

eyes burn too deep,

and silence swallows the truth.

The mask smiles, but the shadow behind it licks its lips.

And when the mask slips, the noble tongue twists,

accusing the innocent,

branding her the destroyer to shield his own decay.

The house still stands, children still laugh,

but the walls whisper truths that are lost

They say men are all the same.

Perhaps not all, but enough to carve wounds that echo through bloodlines.

Enough to make reverence rot,

to turn prayer into poison, to make trust a fragile glass shattered beneath careless feet.

And yet— no cloak, no crown, no sermon,

no song can erase the scar.

It lingers, like smoke after fire,

like whispers in the marrow,

seen only by those who dare to look deeper.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is an esteemed platform celebrating the diverse voices of poets and writers worldwide. This competition fosters a vibrant community of creatives, offering them an opportunity to express their narratives and share their unique perspectives through the written word.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Chumisa Theodora Zantsi for her profound contribution, "Ashes Beneath the Cloak," to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her eloquent exploration of deep-seated societal issues through poetry is truly commendable. We look forward to witnessing more of her powerful expressions in the future.

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.