FREEDOM - By Hilton Thomas

Written By: Hilton Thomas

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Hilton Thomas, writing under the pen name "Freedom," offers a powerful poetic entry titled "FREEDOM" in the Poetry category of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This poignant piece delves into the complex theme of liberation, reflecting on the societal struggles and the ongoing journey toward true freedom. The competition provides a platform for creative expression from across the globe, showcasing diverse voices and perspectives.

About the Work

"FREEDOM" by Hilton Thomas is a profound exploration of the concept of liberation, both achieved and aspirational. The poem captures the exuberance of a hard-won victory against oppression while questioning the reality of freedom in societal constructs. Thomas uses vivid imagery and a reflective tone to challenge readers to consider the true essence of freedom beyond superficial achievements, urging a deeper introspection into societal and personal change.

Freedom

Original Submission by Hilton Thomas

FREEDOM

FREEDOM! FREEDOM! FREEDOM!

We ran out into the streets!

We partied all night long,

We wept and leapt for joy!

For we have achieved what we struggled for,

Year after year, after year, after year.

Freedom, we say, was our price!

Freedom from what?

From oppression by the apartheid regime?

Freedom from what?

From being treated like dirt because we were not white?

Freedom from what?

From education that was not fit even for the gutter?

Freedom, we say, was our price!

Yet, are we now free?

Are we not still thinking in technicolor, white, black and brown?

Are we not still thinking in classes, rich, poor and beggar?

Are we now free?

Do we not still call each other names?

Do we not still treat each other like dirt?

Do we not still live like the bosses?

Freedom, we say, was our price!

FREEDOM! FREEDOM! FREEDOM!

This we can only achieve by being free.

This we can only achieve by being blind to colour.

This we can only achieve by placing the other higher than myself.

Freedom is in the heart, and not the mind.

Freedom is in what we do, and not what we want.

Freedom is in what we live, and not what we think.

Now we realise that freedom is not the achievement.

Now we realise that freedom is the beginning of a journey.

Because freedom, we say, will be our price!

Hilton C. Thomas

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform celebrating literary creativity and diversity. It invites participants worldwide to share their unique voices through poetry, short stories, essays, and creative writing. This competition aims to foster global dialogue and understanding through the power of the written word, offering a stage for both emerging and established writers.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Hilton Thomas for sharing "FREEDOM" with us in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This thought-provoking reflection on the journey toward true freedom resonates deeply, and we are grateful for the opportunity to engage with such compelling work. We look forward to seeing more of Hilton's insightful contributions 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.