BLACK PATRIARCH: A South African Flag - By PRINCE LEHLOGONOLO TLEANE

Written By: PRINCE LEHLOGONOLO TLEANE

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the esteemed Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, PRINCE LEHLOGONOLO TLEANE presents "BLACK PATRIARCH: A South African Flag." As a profound entry in the poetry category, this work delves into themes of identity, heritage, and the deep-rooted connection to the land of South Africa. The poem serves as a testament to the enduring spirit and unity of a nation, encapsulated through vivid imagery and evocative language.

About the Work

"BLACK PATRIARCH: A South African Flag" is a rich tapestry of color and emotion, weaving together the threads of South Africa's history and identity. Through powerful imagery, the poem explores themes of resilience, sacrifice, and unity. The use of colors symbolizes the multifaceted nature of the nation's heritage, while the evocative language captures the essence of a land and its people. This work stands as a vivid representation of endurance and hope.

BLACK PATRIARCH: A South African Flag

Original Submission by PRINCE LEHLOGONOLO TLEANE

BLACK PATRIARCH: A South African Flag

I have risen

from fields of green-

from wheat, from weed, from harvest and hunger, a land that feeds

even when it is forgotten.

Crowned with gold beneath my brow- the wealth in my bones,

the riches buried

in the silence of my soil.

I carry the black-

not shadow,

but complexion-

the image of my people,

etched in endurance,

unfading.

I bear the red-

the blood that was shed,

revolution breathing through generations, the price of becoming

written in sacrifice.

I wear the blue-

peace stretched across my skies,

and the water that poured

when I was struck on the right-

rivers of life

for the thirsty.

I hold the green-

the beauty of my land,

the wheat, the weed, the wild harvest, life insisting

on rising again.

And within me-

the white-

not absence,

but peace,

a cloud around my being,

a meeting place

where division is called

to kneel.

Struck on my left, I bled-

blood that washes,

blood that remembers.

Struck on my right, I poured-

water that heals,

water that gives life

freely.

They drink-

yet do not see.

They drink-

yet do not know.

For like the light

that came into the world-

I stand among them,

unrecognized.

South African I am.

I am the Black Patriarch.

A nation written in colour,

a body divided-

yet called to be one.

Nations gather

to witness my becoming,

to stand in awe-

yet still,

the world refuses to see.

Come and drink-

for what flows from me

does not run dry.

PRINCE

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, celebrates the diverse voices and talents from across the globe. This prestigious competition invites writers and poets to share their unique perspectives and showcase their creative prowess. With a focus on originality and expression, it provides a platform for participants to engage with a global audience, fostering a community of literary excellence.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to PRINCE LEHLOGONOLO TLEANE for sharing "BLACK PATRIARCH: A South African Flag" with us in this year's competition. Your contribution enriches the tapestry of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, offering insight into the profound connection between identity and heritage. We appreciate your poetic voice and look forward to witnessing your continued artistic journey.

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.