Champagne Problems - By Reatile Phalole

Written By: Reatile Phalole

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In "Champagne Problems," Reatile Phalole presents a compelling exploration of emotional resilience amidst personal turmoil. Featured in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, this poem delves into the poignant themes of love, loss, and the enduring struggle to maintain one's sanity in the face of overwhelming grief. Phalole's work is a testament to the power of poetry to convey deep emotional truths and touch the hearts of readers worldwide.

About the Work

"Champagne Problems" captures the haunting aftermath of a relationship strained by memory loss and emotional absence. The poem's melancholic tone is beautifully juxtaposed with vivid imagery and the metaphor of "champagne problems," highlighting the disparity between outward appearances and inner struggles. Through elegant language and evocative scenes, Phalole invites readers into a narrative of enduring love and the quest for personal fortitude in the face of relentless adversity.

Champagne Problems

Original Submission by Reatile Phalole

Champagne Problems

By R.A. Phalole

I stood silently in the rain,

Watched you curl up in pain,

As your mind slowly disintegrated.

And though I myself went insane,

It could never compare to your pain,

So I tried my best to maintain

And to shield all our remains.

Many nights I lay awake,

Unable to soothe the stabbing ache

Of your absence and lack of remembrance,

When I truly needed your presence.

On those nights, I was hit with hail;

My only protection was the thin veil

You placed on me on our wedding day.

On those nights, I witnessed the decay

Of my beautifully arranged bouquet.

I witnessed our wedding bells change,

From joyous to grief rearranged.

I witnessed our ties break,

While my resentment turned to hate.

I watched my dress tear from the attack,

And when I fell, it was spoiled in black.

I bore witness to a truth so haunting:

That surviving you was so exhausting.

Falling apart in the midst of a wreckage

Was not how I envisioned our marriage.

But I smiled as nature applauded,

For these are just champagne problems.

So, for two more dances, break me.

Reform me into a sentient being,

A being filled with suffocating empathy.

This time, I won’t break when you lose your memory.

This time, I will be so very strong

That I can withstand pain prolonged.

This time, I won’t try to end my life

When all you throw at me is strife.

This time, I will learn not to need you;

Your absence will not be my doom.

So let us have our wedding again.

Let’s not spare any expense.

My love, you need not worry,

For I will pay with my sanity.

Again, I will smile as nature applauds.

These are champagne problems, after all.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar celebrates the diverse voices and creative talents of writers worldwide. This prestigious event provides a platform for poets and authors to showcase their work, fostering a global community of literary enthusiasts. With a focus on artistic expression and innovation, the competition highlights the power of words to inspire and connect people across cultures.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Reatile Phalole for sharing "Champagne Problems" with us. Your poignant exploration of love and resilience has enriched the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. We look forward to witnessing more of your profound contributions to the world of poetry. Thank you for entrusting us with your powerful voice.

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.