Before I Say I Do - By Reatile Phalole

Written By: Reatile Phalole

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the realm of poetic expression, Reatile Phalole delivers a profound piece titled "Before I Say I Do," submitted to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This poignant poem offers readers an introspective journey into the emotional intricacies surrounding the commitments of marriage. Phalole's work captures the essence of doubt, love, and the courage to confront one's true feelings.

About the Work

"Before I Say I Do" vividly portrays the internal conflict and apprehension faced before a lifelong commitment. Through striking imagery and candid emotion, Reatile Phalole navigates the tumultuous path of love and self-realization. The poem's reflective tone and lyrical style invite readers to ponder the depth of their own commitments and the courage required to follow one's heart.

Before I Say I Do

Original Submission by Reatile Phalole

Before I Say I Do

By Reatile Phalole

I urged my racing heart to calm

As I scratched at my sweaty palms.

I stared in the mirror, amazed

That the day had finally come,

And yet, nothing felt the same.

My maid of honour complained.

She said that I’m completely insane

To choose to withstand such pain.

She grieved on my wedding day,

Insisted that I stay away

From what would eventually decay.

I refused, even though I was dreading

Walking down the aisle where you’d be waiting.

I held onto my bouquet.

I opened a bottle of champagne,

And then I chugged it all down

To drown out every sound.

Moths fluttered in my gut

As the train of my dress dragged.

My maid of honour held it for me,

Even though she dreaded what would be.

I avoided the gazes of all our guests.

In that moment, you were my only quest.

When I arrived at the altar,

I felt my heart falter.

I blamed it on my usual anxiety.

It wasn’t enough to stop the wedding.

The priest spent a while preaching.

I didn’t notice my words stumbling

As I struggled to get through the vows.

At the time, I thought it was excitement,

But looking back, I was truly frightened.

Weeks before the anticipated wedding,

I spent my nights awake and crying.

I knew the end would break me,

But I believed in what we could be.

But then our marriage fell apart.

We barely lasted three months.

Your absence drove me insane,

Yet I tried to have my tears contained.

Only when I had nothing left to give,

Only when I drowned after trying to dive,

Did I see that, in this marriage, I slowly died.

You knew that I drew up the papers.

You knew that I felt like a traitor.

You knew that I never felt enough.

So signing the papers was a decision,

That you left up to me.

I think time is slowed with us,

Because we barely lasted two months

Before I returned to your bed,

Before you asked us to wed again.

Without thinking, I said yes,

Returning to an altered mess.

The wedding day arrived again.

My hands were once again sweating.

My bridesmaids barely let me speak,

And their words had my heart so weak.

Yet, I was determined to walk to the altar.

This time, my bridesmaids didn’t falter.

Their words echoed, hard and true:

I would never truly have you.

So, while the priest began preaching,

I heard the words, “Stop the wedding.”

Unlike last time, my eyes glistened.

This time, I truly listened.

Gasps echo as I walk back.

I could hear both of our hearts crack.

I demolished all our plans

As I picked up my dress and ran.

So, my dearest readers,

When your hands are sweating

And your heart keeps racing,

When you find yourself dreading,

And if you feel yourself eroding,

Stop the wedding.

Stop the wedding.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, celebrates the diversity and creativity of writers worldwide. This prestigious event provides a platform for poets and writers to share their unique voices and perspectives, fostering a global community of literary enthusiasts.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Reatile Phalole for sharing "Before I Say I Do" with us. Your contribution to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 is truly appreciated. We look forward to witnessing more of your insightful and evocative works 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.