Because of you - By Karabo Mpuru

Written By: Karabo Mpuru

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Karabo Mpuru presents a moving piece titled "Because of you" in the Poetry category of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This heartfelt poem delves into the themes of love and memory, capturing the bittersweet essence of cherished moments. The competition, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, celebrates creativity in various forms, bringing together voices from around the world. Karabo’s work stands out for its emotional depth and personal reflection.

About the Work

"Because of you" is a tender exploration of love’s lingering impact, painted through everyday actions and simple yet evocative imagery. The poem captures the essence of nostalgia and loss, with a focus on the small rituals that keep a loved one’s memory alive. Its emotional resonance is heightened by the stark contrast between personal dislikes and the desire to honor a shared past. The poem's reflective tone invites readers to ponder the enduring presence of those we once cherished.

Because of you

Original Submission by Karabo Mpuru

Because of you

I drink my coffee black

I hate it

Because it’s bitter

But I drink it

Because you loved it

I pass by the grocery store

I pick up a bag of marshmallows

I hate marshmallows

But I take them anyway

Because you loved them

I put on a sappy rom com

I think they’re absolutely ridiculous

But I laugh

A little too hard at a joke one of the characters make

It doesn’t make sense

But I laugh anyway

Because you would've laughed either way

Your nose scrunching like it did when you laughed

And the sound bouncing off the walls of our tiny apartment

That are now barren

And our pictures lay face down

Because I can't stand seeing your smile

Knowing I’ll never see it again

And suddenly the characters on the screen merge into blobs

And the world becomes blurry

And my lungs feel heavy

. . / - - . . . . . . . . / - . - - - - - . . -

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a distinguished platform celebrating the art of written expression. It welcomes diverse voices, allowing participants to share their unique perspectives through poetry, short stories, and essays. This global competition is a testament to the power of words and the creative spirit, fostering a community of writers who inspire and challenge each other.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Karabo Mpuru for sharing "Because of you" with the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your poignant contribution adds a rich layer to the tapestry of voices showcased this year. We look forward to seeing more of your evocative work 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.