Cutting Lines - By Dean Kleinbooi

Written By: Dean Kleinbooi

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Introducing Dean Kleinbooi's poignant work, "Cutting Lines," a notable entry in the Poetry category of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Through this evocative piece, Dean delves into the complex emotions of love and longing, capturing the intricacies of personal relationships. The competition serves as a platform for exploring such profound themes, bringing together creative voices from around the world.

About the Work

"Cutting Lines" is a raw and heartfelt exploration of yearning and emotional connection. The poem's vivid imagery and candid tone convey the lingering ties of past relationships. Dean's use of metaphor and sensory language paints a picture of love's enduring presence, even amidst new connections. The work reflects on memory, desire, and the enduring impact of intimate bonds.

Cutting Lines

Original Submission by Dean Kleinbooi

Cutting Lines

Dean Kleinbooi

Baby are you listening?

I heard you got a new man

Does he know

that all those things you do to him

when you stain your lips red

you learnt from me?

And I know

that you still taste me

when you kiss him

Your sister has your eyes

She wears your smile

And that same crooked nose

You got work done for

The thought of her

was laced with

incense and burnt vanilla

I only fucked her

to feel you through her

Don’t you miss me

as I do us?

You’re still the one I want

when I cut my lines

Who told you

I needed saving?

What made you think

I want to stop?

You know my cut:

I itch for your touch

I still think of you

when I cut my lines

I pray you still bleed for me

when you make your cuts

I’m not sorry

You hope I overdose

Hope is just another drug

and I cut its lines with your card

to keep you present

when you’re not around

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious event that celebrates emerging and established voices in poetry and creative writing. It offers a platform for writers to showcase their talents and explore diverse themes, fostering a global community of storytellers and poets.

We extend our gratitude to Dean Kleinbooi for sharing the evocative poem "Cutting Lines" in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Dean's exploration of love and memory through poetry enriches the competition's tapestry of creative expression. We look forward to seeing more of Dean's impactful work in the future.

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.