Down Bad - By Justin Beukes
Written By: Justin Beukes
Category: Poetry, Rap, Song
Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026
Introducing Justin Beukes and his poignant work "Down Bad," submitted in the Poetry category of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This competition celebrates the creativity and expression of writers from around the world. In "Down Bad," Beukes delves into themes of love, introspection, and the aspirations of fatherhood, crafting a piece that resonates with emotional depth and personal insight.
About the Work
"Down Bad" by Justin Beukes is a powerful exploration of emotional vulnerability and the complexities of love and personal growth. Through its rhythmic cadence and vivid imagery, the poem captures the struggle between inner turmoil and the desire for redemption. The narrative weaves together reflections on past relationships and the aspirations of being a better father, offering a raw and honest portrayal of the human experience.
Down Bad
Original Submission by Justin Beukes
Down Bad
I want a love for us, but I got nothing for me,
Then shrug it off like it’s nothing to me,
When in reality it’s eating me alive.
Truth be told, without it I would never survive.
I took a drive, but I need to take five,
A couple minutes if you’re down to make time.
Broke a tie I thought would stay tied.
Feel the pull of the Son, I guess that’s why there’s great tides.
I’m still learning how to-
Still learning how to love,
Still learning what it is, what it was.
Need a hug, but I’d be fine with a text.
Put my life on the line for my ex; she the best.
I pray God let her know.
I should’ve held her close and never let her go.
But instead of letting her go, I let me go.
Ego
Got me on the D low.
Down bad.
Don’t want my kids to ever see a down dad.
Gotta ask: how bad do I wanna be a father?
A man who’s not afraid to die for duty and honor, a man who’s-
Down bad.
Don’t want my kids to ever see a down dad.
Gotta ask: how bad do I wanna be a father?
A man who’s not afraid to die for duty and honor, a man who’s-
Seen way too much,
But the drive God gave came way too clutch.
Yeah, the love God gave made me question my own.
It’s hard to stay grounded when I just wanna fly home.
Get away, get a sigh of relief.
We never say it, but all of us rely on belief.
I’ll keep it brief, ’cause life goes quick.
Take a walk in old shoes ’cause I like those kicks.
Chose this when I should’ve chose You.
Maybe You don’t really love me.
Maybe You just chose to.
Made a-
Made a choice that I wish I didn’t choose.
Every time I tried to change, I just gave You an excuse.
Bad news, another song about me,
Preaching how to get life when I don’t live devoutly.
Doubt me,
Which means I find a way to doubt You.
Need to calm down and breathe, but I don’t know how to.
God, I’m-
Down bad.
Don’t want my kids to ever see a down dad.
Gotta ask: how bad do I wanna be a father?
A man who’s not afraid to die for duty and honor, a man who’s-
Down bad.
Don’t want my kids to ever see a down dad.
Gotta ask: how bad do I wanna be a father?
A man who’s not afraid to die for duty and honor, a man who’s-
About the Competition
The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, is a prestigious platform showcasing diverse literary talents from around the globe. This competition invites poets and writers to share their unique voices and stories, fostering a vibrant community of creative expression and cultural exchange.
Thank you, Justin Beukes, for sharing your evocative poem "Down Bad" with the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your reflection on love and personal aspiration adds a compelling voice to this year's collection. We appreciate your contribution and look forward to your future endeavors in poetry.
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.
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