Dear You - By Jamilah Reid

Written By: Jamilah Reid

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In "Dear You," a poem by Jamilah Reid, readers are invited to explore a powerful narrative on identity and self-worth. This thought-provoking piece is a part of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, a prestigious event celebrating diverse voices and creative expression. Jamilah's work delves into the complexities of self-perception and the societal pressures faced by men, weaving a tapestry of empathy and introspection.

About the Work

Jamilah Reid's "Dear You" is a heartfelt exploration of identity and empowerment, articulated through a series of poignant addresses to the male spirit. The poem's evocative language and vivid imagery challenge cultural norms, urging a reevaluation of self-worth and societal expectations. With a tone that is both nurturing and assertive, Reid encourages readers to embrace authenticity and resilience.

Dear You

Original Submission by Jamilah Reid

Dear Young Man,

I see you’ve bleached your face.

Have you forgotten your true beauty and grace?

Your black skin shines in the sun and clashes with your ambition each time you walk into a dark space.

Hello Sir,

Why is your self-esteem so scourged?

Do you know the way you articulate your thoughts, show up in a room,

your innate tendencies and intellect …are things many wish they could simply duplicate?

Dear Emperor,

Your stature precedes you, yet why do you go so low to fit in?

Why are you so short with yourself as everyone else, holds YOUR head high as you stand tall?

Dear Boy,

You are a man - It’s time you start acting like it.

You are not less than.

You are a brilliant and beautiful unstoppable force that even your lineage contends with.

Brush off the sorrows of tomorrow and the impact of yesterday.

Breathe.

Even with all your trauma, my dear…you are STILL a great force to be reckoned with.

Dear Mister,

You are a handsome work of art, who deserves a good woman.

Work on you, find her and stop selling yourself short.

Yes, you deserve pheromones you admire and adore …at your encore.

Dear King,

As society changes, don’t be afraid to spread your wings and fly with it too.

The world is harsh and yes…they do not know the struggles you’ve endured.

Believe me, you have to create your own friction.

Take a risk…be your own wind,beneath your wings…

I believe in you, you’ve got this!

Dear Big Man,

You don’t need to make things as hard for everyone else, just like they did to you.

Relax.

Lower your sword and armour, amour.

You are loved, your feelings matter, your cries echo throughout the forest as the wind takes them to our doorsteps.

Rest assured, being humane won’t make you less macho, or less you.

Dear Sir Ego,

Your resilience ricochets like a perfectly smoothed rock.

Find safety in those you trust.

Sir Ego…you don’t have to be so puffed up.

Dear Father,

You’re a dad - it doesn’t feel like enough, but money does not equate to nurturing.

Nurturing is not the sum total of your presence or presents - It’s you being present.

Dear Men,

Society tells you not to cry but…if you keep it in..aren’t we slowly losing you?

It’s okay to express yourself.

Water is the most powerful force on Earth, decide which body of water you run parallel to.

It’s okay to de-juxtapose the thoughts in your mind.

I am not a man but Young Man, Sir, Emperor, Boy,Mister, King, Big Man, Sir Ego, Father Men…what if I wrote this poem just for you?

Hence, Dear You…I see you.

Jamilah Reid

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, is an esteemed platform that showcases the creative talents of writers worldwide. This competition celebrates the power of the written word and its ability to inspire, provoke thought, and drive change. Writers from various backgrounds participate, contributing to a rich tapestry of literary art.

Thank you, Jamilah Reid, for sharing your profound poem, "Dear You," with the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your work resonates deeply, offering a powerful message on identity, self-worth, and the human experience. We are grateful for your contribution to this literary celebration and look forward to more of your inspiring 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.