Dear You - By Jamilah Reid

Written By: Jamilah Reid

Category: Poetry - this is a resubmission with audio

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the realm of evocative poetry, Jamilah Reid's "Dear You" emerges as a compelling piece featured in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar. This heartfelt poem delves into themes of identity, self-worth, and societal expectations. Reid's work stands as a poignant reflection on the pressures faced by young men and the journey towards self-acceptance. With its powerful language and emotional depth, "Dear You" invites readers to contemplate the profound impact of cultural and personal narratives on individual growth.

About the Work

"Dear You" is a resonant exploration of masculinity, self-perception, and resilience. Through a series of intimate addresses, Jamilah Reid crafts a narrative that challenges conventional views on strength and vulnerability. The poem's rich imagery and thoughtful questions serve to empower and uplift, encouraging a reevaluation of self-worth and societal roles. Reid's adept use of language captures the complex interplay between external pressures and internal truths, offering a profound commentary on personal and collective identity.

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 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform celebrating diverse voices in the literary arts. It provides a unique opportunity for writers worldwide to showcase their creativity and connect with a global audience. The competition fosters a vibrant community of poets and writers, encouraging the exploration of innovative themes and storytelling techniques. This initiative highlights the power of words to inspire, challenge, and transform.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Jamilah Reid for sharing "Dear You" with us in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her insightful exploration of identity and empowerment enriches the literary landscape and resonates deeply with readers. We are grateful for her contribution and look forward to witnessing her continued impact in the world of poetry and creative writing.

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.