Blueprint for a Monster - By Rosie Lee

Written By: Rosie Lee

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Rosie Lee presents "Blueprint for a Monster," a profound entry in the Poetry category of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This competition celebrates the rich tapestry of global literary expression. In her poem, Lee delves into the intricate process of creation and transformation, exploring themes of identity and the gradual shaping of one's nature. Her work invites readers into a deeply introspective journey, reflecting on the influences and experiences that mold us.

About the Work

"Blueprint for a Monster" by Rosie Lee is a poignant exploration of creation, examining how external influences shape identity. The piece adopts a rhythmic, instructional tone, guiding readers through a step-by-step transformation. The poem's vivid imagery and emotional depth highlight the tension between nurture and manipulation, drawing attention to the complexities of growth and change. Rosie Lee's work challenges readers to consider the fine line between love and control.

Blueprint for a Monster

Original Submission by Rosie Lee

Blueprint for a Monster

by Rosie Lee

i.

begin with something small, quiet, new.

a clean slate, untouched, without a single clue.

something that has yet to even earn its name.

teach it to learn from hunger, pain, and shame.

train it to live, to thrive, and then to endure.

promise it devotion, swear your love is sure.

press loyalty deep, ‘til it reaches bone.

then pull away, leave it standing all alone.

ii.

teach silence is safety. teach agony is might.

tuck it away into the alcoves of the night.

break it into pieces, call its fractures beauty.

reward each restraint, punish every plea.

raise the bar high so they can never outrun.

until survival is earned and love is won.

watch it learn to ache for your sweetest of words.

let the line in between love and use blur.

iii.

tell it truth is only true when it leaves your lips.

make its faith slip away like drip, drip, drip.

shut the window when it tries to look out.

show them what happens when they beg and pout.

open doors wide and set up the bait.

show them what happens when they try to escape.

never do teach them how to be better.

taunt them with words: you should have been clever.

iv.

feed it misery and man-flesh for every meal.

sharpen its claws and teeth before it can feel.

break oaths like bones, promises like glass.

let the love wither ‘til it rots at last.

teach it to hunt until the day is done.

teach it to feast until the nightfall’s gone.

become its mother, its lover, its darkest heart.

and when it’s ready, you tear it all apart.

v.

keep it caged until it grows older.

tend the broken hearth, let the fire turn colder.

teach it that mercy is scarce, a privilege, a prize.

something rationed carefully, tainted with lies.

force it to kneel for affection, plead for life.

make it bow and kiss the blade of your knife.

raise it, shape it, then let it slowly fade.

monsters aren’t born, they’re simply made.

thank you for staying and reading a while,

this tutorial on how to raise a child.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, is a prestigious event that celebrates diverse literary voices from around the world. This competition provides a platform for poets and writers to share their creative expressions and connect with a global audience. It encourages participants to explore various themes and showcase their unique storytelling abilities, contributing to the vibrant world of contemporary literature.

We extend our gratitude to Rosie Lee for her thought-provoking submission, "Blueprint for a Monster." Her participation in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 enriches the literary landscape with its depth and insight. Thank you, Rosie, for sharing your work with us and for engaging readers in this imaginative exploration of transformation.

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.