I am a ghost in my own skin. - By Siyolise Nkumanda

Written By: Siyolise Nkumanda

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Siyolise Nkumanda's poignant poetry piece, "I am a ghost in my own skin.," emerges as a vivid exploration of identity and presence within the esteemed Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Through this submission, Siyolise intricately weaves themes of self-reflection and existential contemplation, inviting readers into an introspective journey. This work, resonating with deep emotional undercurrents, exemplifies the caliber of creativity celebrated in this international competition.

About the Work

"I am a ghost in my own skin." captures the haunting essence of feeling estranged within oneself. Siyolise Nkumanda employs evocative imagery and a melancholic tone to delve into themes of isolation and loss. The poem's reflective mood and lyrical style underscore the emotional weight of absence and the longing for reconnection with reality. Through poignant metaphors and vivid language, Siyolise crafts a narrative that lingers in the reader's mind, offering a profound meditation on the human experience.

I am a ghost in my own skin.

Original Submission by Siyolise Nkumanda

I am a ghost in my own skin

I am a ghost in my own skin,

moving through the rooms of the living like water through stone.

The world speaks, but the sound arrives late. it bounces off the static in my head.

I watch my feet move forward,

but I am miles behind them,

trapped in the quiet amber of the afternoon before you left.

Time has lost its weight.

Minutes stretch into heavy, grey miles;

hours pass in a single,

blank blink.

people look at me and see a person standing,

but I am under the surface, breathing in the dark, waiting for the shock wave to clear.

My chest is a hollow chamber.

Every breath feels heavy,

like pulling silt into my lungs.

I want to wake up from the air, i

i want to shake the numbness from my fingers,

but the trance is a heavy blanket pinned down by

your absence.

I am waiting for the noise of the world to sound like something real again.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 is a prestigious platform hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, celebrating diverse voices and creative brilliance worldwide. This competition invites poets and writers to share their unique perspectives through compelling narratives and innovative expressions, fostering a global literary community. Participants engage with a wide audience, contributing to the rich tapestry of contemporary literature.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Siyolise Nkumanda for sharing "I am a ghost in my own skin." with the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This evocative piece enriches the dialogue of identity and presence within the literary community. Thank you, Siyolise, for your contribution and for exploring the depths of self-reflection through your art.

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.