Candles - By Max du Toit

Written By: Max du Toit

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Max du Toit presents "Candles," a captivating poem featured in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar. "Candles" is a stunning exploration of light and shadow, capturing the transformative beauty of flickering flames against the night. Through elegant imagery, Max du Toit invites readers to immerse themselves in the warmth and allure of candlelight.

About the Work

"Candles" evokes the serene yet vibrant presence of candlelight, masterfully illustrating its varied forms and the moods it can evoke. Through lyrical descriptions, the poem paints a vivid picture of the interplay between light and darkness, capturing the warmth and mystery of each flickering flame. The work's imagery resonates with elegance and a touch of reverence, inviting readers to appreciate the subtle magic of candles.

Candles

Original Submission by Max du Toit

Candles

A Lyric

I looked out and saw all the windows grow bright,

With their glittering candles illuming the night:

White elegant candles in silvery holders,

With frosty long streams from their shimmering shoulders;

And yellowish candles with flames like fat jewels,

Which form warm and mellow, wick-drowning pools;

There were church candles, holy with halo-ringed blur,

With a conquering glow, and a solemn allure;

And soft shadowy candles where rose-blossoms flush,

All enticingly shy in their scarlet-touched blush:

They pour from the windows, like wax from the mould,

They gleam on the streets, and they gild them with gold,

And from further they melt and they meld into one:

I think they could almost become like the sun.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar celebrates the art of words by showcasing diverse voices from around the world. Dedicated to fostering creativity and literary expression, this prestigious platform welcomes participants to share their unique perspectives and stories through poetry and creative writing.

We extend our sincere thanks to Max du Toit for sharing "Candles" with the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your evocative poem enriches the competition with its vivid imagery and lyrical beauty. We look forward to your continued creative journey and contributions.

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.