Bread crumbs - By Gift Mzwandile Mabaso

Written By: Gift Mzwandile Mabaso

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Gift Mzwandile Mabaso presents "Bread crumbs," a stirring poetic entry in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This poem, rich with evocative imagery, captures the essence of memories and emotions through vivid metaphors. Mabaso's work, part of the esteemed competition's poetry category, invites readers to reflect on the fleeting nature of past experiences and the enduring impact they leave behind.

About the Work

"Bread crumbs" explores the themes of memory and emotional resilience. The poem paints a somber picture of longing and introspection, using strong visual and tactile imagery. Mabaso's literary style intertwines metaphors and emotion, crafting a narrative of personal struggle and acceptance. The work's mood is contemplative, urging readers to ponder the complexities of human emotions and the scars left by unfulfilled experiences.

Bread crumbs

Original Submission by Gift Mzwandile Mabaso

Bread Crumbs

Memories like bread crumbs do not satisfy

as the lived experience.

I absorbed every blow in hope’s boxing ring,

No emotion left unexpressed by the fists,

as I try to wake

from the memory of you leaving me.

Like a shirt with no collar,

I have no place in which to tie my emotions -

let rain fall on the undeserving soil

of my heart,

wherein no seed can be planted

after being touched by eroded hands.

It is to this end that I owe my loyalty -

heaven marred,

so that I could be caught like a fish

swimming in an ocean of despair,

and taught how to breathe.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, celebrates literary creativity worldwide. This prestigious platform offers writers and poets a chance to showcase their talents to a global audience. By participating, writers engage with peers and receive recognition for their artistic contributions. The competition fosters a community of creativity and expression, encouraging diverse voices and stories.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Gift Mzwandile Mabaso for sharing "Bread crumbs" with us. Your contribution to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 enriches the literary landscape with its poignant exploration of memory and emotion. We appreciate your participation and look forward to reading more of your insightful work.

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.