Dreaded Plague - By Sarojini Moodley

Written By: Sarojini Moodley

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, Sarojini Moodley presents a compelling poetic piece titled "Dreaded Plague." Representing the category of poetry, this work delves into the stark realities faced by today's youth. Without embellishment, Moodley captures the vulnerabilities and perils that can abruptly alter the course of young lives. Her evocative narrative resonates with a universal theme of lost innocence, a subject that remains poignant and pressing in the contemporary world.

About the Work

"Dreaded Plague" unfolds as a harrowing journey through the dark corridors of societal ills, focusing on the tragic consequences of substance abuse and violence. Sarojini Moodley employs vivid imagery and a raw narrative style to confront the reader with the harsh truth of a young life cut short. The poem's emotional gravity is underscored by its rhythmic intensity, portraying a devastating loss of innocence and the relentless brutality faced by the vulnerable.

Dreaded Plague

Original Submission by Sarojini Moodley

DREADED PLAGUE

A venom

Sucking it vehemently

Spinning his head

Distorting his mind

Into a drunken stupor

Driving a blood-curdling violence

Into his very soul,

She was only 14

A pivotal stage

Stage of her life

An adaptive explorer

Standing at the edge

Edge of Independence

Cut short in a blink of an eye,

Like a puff adder

They lured

Lured her graciously

to an open veld

forcing her to smoke

smoke marijuana

the dreaded plague

That’s killing our youth

In perforated speed

Senselessly and mercilessly

But

She refused,

Like a bolt of thunder

ripping through the night sky

The beast pushed her down

growling threats and slander

swinging a knife aggressively

while the youth raped

Raped her

invading her precious body

Like a sharp electric zap

Pulsating her very soul

Like a rhythmic heartbeat

A piercing, jabbing feeling

That destroyed the core

Core of her life,

They took away her prized possession

The innocence of her soul

She fought with courage and stamina

But was overwhelmed

Overwhelmed by the brutal force

The brutal force of the beast

He stabbed her repeatedly

Repeatedly on her neck and legs

Raping her

Again and again

Until she was

Was “no more”,

Bundled like an animal

Flung in an open veld

They had no mercy

The dreaded blackened souls,

Trust is a blatant enemy

To the budding youth of today

It could snatch your life

In a blink of an eye,

A pure soul

So precious and brilliant

Her life ended by brutal force

An unfathomable tragedy

In the trajectory of life.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a celebration of literary expression and creativity. This prestigious platform welcomes writers and poets from around the world to share their unique voices and perspectives. With a focus on authenticity and artistic integrity, the competition showcases diverse narratives that resonate with readers globally, fostering a vibrant community of creative minds.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Sarojini Moodley for her poignant contribution, "Dreaded Plague," to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her powerful narrative and evocative imagery bring crucial social issues to the forefront, encouraging reflection and dialogue. We are honored to feature her work and applaud her for shedding light on such an important subject.

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.