Beware - By Aamna Punekar

Written By: Aamna Punekar

Category: Poetry

Competition: Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Aamna Punekar presents her stirring poem "Beware," a captivating entry in the Poetry category of the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. With a theme rooted in love and self-identity, Aamna's poem invites readers into a world of emotional complexity and introspection. Her work stands as a testament to the power of poetry to explore the depths of the human psyche.

About the Work

"Beware" weaves a narrative of duality and transformation, encapsulating the struggle between one's true nature and the masks worn for love. The poem's vivid imagery and haunting tone evoke a sense of foreboding and raw emotion. Aamna's literary style employs metaphor and symbolism to reflect on themes of identity and vulnerability, inviting readers to ponder the nature of love and the self.

Among sheep.

Original Submission by Aamna Punekar

Beware,

I’m a wolf in a herd of sheep.

My skin isn’t covered in wool;

it reeks of blood beneath.

I’m a wolf in a herd of sheep.

I fell in love with one of them,

Yet I fear I’m still the wolf.

My love,

I had to hide beneath the wool,

to sheath my canines,

to not let it hurt you.

But beware.

I’m a wolf in the skin of a sheep.

My skin isn’t covered in wool.

I smell of nasty blood.

No wonder I devoured my previous love.

I’m a wolf, my love.

No wonder I’d consume you,

so you could live inside me

for eternity.

When the maggots feast on me,

they’ll taste you too

perhaps love,

or maybe hatred and vengeance

I’m a wolf,

at the end of the day.

So don’t hurt me, I wouldn’t mind letting you live within me,

My love.

About the Competition

The Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a celebration of literary talent and creativity. This prestigious event offers a platform for writers and poets to showcase their work to a diverse audience. With entries spanning a range of styles and themes, the competition highlights the richness of contemporary writing.

Thank you, Aamna Punekar, for sharing your evocative poem "Beware" with us in the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your exploration of love and identity through poetic expression is a cherished addition to our platform. We look forward to seeing more of your creative endeavors.

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.