Beauty and the Beast - By Justin Beukes

Written By: Justin Beukes

Category: Poetry, Rap, Song

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Justin Beukes graces the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 with his thought-provoking piece, "Beauty and the Beast." This poignant work, categorized under poetry, rap, and song, delves into the depths of vulnerability and self-reflection. Beukes' entry is a testament to the power of creative expression, exploring themes of inner turmoil and the quest for redemption. His words resonate with raw emotion, inviting readers to ponder the complexities of the human condition.

About the Work

"Beauty and the Beast" by Justin Beukes captures the essence of vulnerability through its rhythmic verses and introspective tone. The poem juxtaposes external appearances with internal struggles, painting a vivid picture of the battle between light and darkness. Beukes' writing style melds poetic lyricism with the cadence of rap, creating a compelling narrative. Through powerful imagery and heartfelt emotion, he explores themes of self-worth and the human tendency to hide pain behind a facade.

Beauty and the Beast

Original Submission by Justin Beukes

Beauty and the Beast

JSTN

Vulnerable in showing my catharsis.

Vulnerable in showing my emotion.

Vulnerable in showing you the darkness.

I’m vulnerable in showing you it’s more than just a notion.

Sometimes it’s hard to make space.

Sometimes it’s hard to make room.

If only you would know what takes place,

You would know that I ain’t writing this to sing a fake tune.

Blessed are the people who mourn. Why?

’Cause we think living in our sin is the norm.

We’re in a storm with no appreciation for the boat,

And then we wonder why we never stay afloat.

What a joke, huh? We’d rather laugh,

Focusing on everything but everything we have.

We wear a mask while we’re playing pretend,

And then it falls off when the night out ends.

Like, what’s the point?

You get drunk, go home,

Take drugs, have sex, just to end up all alone.

What’s the point?

What you tryna achieve?

Just some pleasure for a moment that’ll vanish and leave?

Man, don’t you think we’re worth more?

Don’t you think there’s something better in store?

‘Cause you try your best to fill a bottomless pit,

But you keep ducking and dodging the only One that’ll fit, and He’s the-

Son of God, Son of Man

Fully God, fully man, the Lion and the Lamb.

He said, “Repent, for the Kingdom’s at hand.”

An understatement is to say He overstands.

They see the beauty, but they don’t see the beast.

And if they knew me, they would see me as the least.

They see the beauty, but they don’t see the pain.

And if they knew me, they would know that I’m to blame.

They see appearance, but they don’t see within,

The broken spirit, the darkness, and the sin.

They see the surface, but they don’t see the heart I hide,

That inner battle that’s been tearing me apart inside.

So what’s the solution?

When you’re facing your demons and all you feel is persecution, it’s like

You feel confusion and you don’t know why.

The day of clarity’s the day you’ll see a dodo fly.

I know a Guy, though.

He’ll meet you where you are.

He’s not afraid to come and meet you where you stand,

But He’s too loving to leave you the same.

If you’d just give Him your pain and grab ahold of His hand,

You’d understand.

You’d come to know.

He’s the fuel that you need when the tank’s running low.

He’s the light in the dark when you don’t know where to go.

He’s a Being Who still loves you when you see Him as a foe, so

That means He’s Someone Who could handle the beast.

And you could show Him all the parts of you you think are deceased.

He’s not surprised with what’s inside of you and what you disguise-

All the lust, all the jealousy, the hatred, and lies.

It’s no surprise. It’s nothing new.

Yeah, He’s the God Who leaves the many for the few. True.

Trust that what I’m telling you is truth.

If it wasn’t, I wouldn’t’ve even brought it to the booth.

He’s the-

Son of God, Son of Man

Fully God, fully man, the Lion and the Lamb.

He said, “Repent, for the Kingdom’s at hand.”

An understatement is to say He overstands.

They see the beauty, but they don’t see the beast.

And if they knew me, they would see me as the least.

They see the beauty, but they don’t see the pain.

And if they knew me, they would know that I’m to blame.

They see appearance, but they don’t see within,

The broken spirit, the darkness, and the sin.

They see the surface, but they don’t see the heart I hide,

That inner battle that’s been tearing me apart inside.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform celebrating literary creativity across the globe. This competition invites writers to unleash their talents and share their unique voices with the world. With a focus on diverse genres and themes, it offers participants an opportunity to showcase their work alongside fellow creatives, fostering a vibrant community of writers and poets.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Justin Beukes for sharing "Beauty and the Beast" with us as part of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. His contribution enriches the tapestry of voices that make this event truly special. Justin's exploration of vulnerability and redemption is a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit. We look forward to witnessing his continued journey in the world of poetry and creative expression.

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.