Don’t Paint Me a Crimson - By Seyara Vihansi

Written By: Seyara Vihansi

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Seyara Vihansi presents a poignant exploration of identity and self-expression in her poem "Don’t Paint Me a Crimson." As part of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, this work delves into themes of individuality and the struggle against imposed identities. The poem invites readers into a world where the purity of a white rose is challenged by external desires, metaphorically representing the societal pressures to conform.

About the Work

"Don’t Paint Me a Crimson" is a profound meditation on the tension between authenticity and external expectations. Through vivid imagery and emotional depth, Seyara Vihansi captures the delicate beauty of a white rose resisting transformation into crimson. The poem's mood is both wistful and assertive, echoing the silent cries for recognition and acceptance in one's true form.

Don’t Paint Me a Crimson

Original Submission by Seyara Vihansi

Don’t Paint Me a Crimson

Why would you tell a rose so white,

to be a crimson; the colour of sultry?

Why won’t you leave her,

or let her be her own pure colour

instead of making her bleed

Just to be so red for your desire?

She wishes that you’d hear

the words she is afraid to say,

so you wouldn’t be relentless,

hurting her, until the dews so pure,

shines on her petals.

She wishes that you would blush

as you wake to know

That you have a rose;

A rose that’s white, so white

Unseen beneath your crimson dream

Seyara Vihansi

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform celebrating the diverse voices and creative talents of writers worldwide. It offers participants the opportunity to share their unique perspectives and narratives with an international audience, fostering a global appreciation for the written word.

We extend our sincere gratitude to Seyara Vihansi for her heartfelt contribution, "Don’t Paint Me a Crimson," to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her work is a beautiful reminder of the power of poetry to illuminate the complexities of identity and self-expression.

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.