Drive Through South Africa - By Zayaan Sirkot

Written By: Zayaan Sirkot

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, Zayaan Sirkot presents "Drive Through South Africa," a poignant entry in the poetry category. Sirkot takes readers on a vivid journey through the diverse landscapes of South Africa, capturing the contrasting elements of urban and rural life. Through keen observation and evocative imagery, Sirkot's poem offers a reflective glimpse into the heart of a nation, inviting readers to traverse its roads and communities.

About the Work

"Drive Through South Africa" is a powerful exploration of the contrasting landscapes and communities within the country. Zayaan Sirkot uses rich imagery and rhythmic cadence to depict scenes of opulence juxtaposed with simplicity. The poem traverses through different socioeconomic environments, portraying a sense of movement and change, while highlighting themes of community, disparity, and resilience. Sirkot's work resonates with a deep appreciation for the country's diverse character and the shared humanity of its people.

Drive Through South Africa

Original Submission by Zayaan Sirkot

Drive through South Africa

There were massive houses with luxurious gardens.

A delivery package here, ordered by sheltered maidens.

There were disruptive barking dogs and squirrels running.

And roads being paved stopped cars from moving.

We drove on.

There was little greenery, but they had nice plots.

Sometimes you heard birds, sometimes gunshots.

There was no delivery, they drove all the way.

But a sense of community filled the roads caves.

We still drove on.

The buildings were small, like the countryside.

Not everyone had cars, so they walked in stride.

We avoided holes and rubbish on the road.

Kids cycled home or ran far from their own.

We quickly drove on.

There were sheets for roofs, and scraps for walls.

Soccer was played with bare feet on dry soil.

Skeletons were walking in broken, old shoes.

And massive potholes stopped cars from moving.

We drove, in zigzags, on.

Cattle surrounded huts, people surrounded cattle.

Dirt huts connected them, through one-room houses.

One hut, one pot, many people, much love.

And unfinished roads only worked on for power.

We silently drove on.

Consecutive, with

a clear line between.

One diverse country.

Different roads for each.

We drove on.

________________

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a celebration of literary talent from around the world. This esteemed competition welcomes writers and poets to share their unique voices and perspectives through poetry, short stories, essays, and creative writings. It is a platform where creativity meets recognition, offering participants an opportunity to engage with a global audience and contribute to a vibrant literary community.

We extend our warmest thanks to Zayaan Sirkot for the insightful contribution to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. "Drive Through South Africa" is a remarkable piece that captures the essence of a nation's diversity and the beauty of its people. We are grateful for the opportunity to share this journey through Sirkot's eyes and look forward to more profound works 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.