I kept quiet - By Sanelisiwe Precious Mdakane

Written By: Sanelisiwe Precious Mdakane

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the compelling poem "I kept quiet," Sanelisiwe Precious Mdakane delivers a powerful narrative of resilience and courage. As a participant in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, Sanelisiwe shares an evocative work that speaks to the silent struggles faced by many. This piece, entered under the Poetry category, explores the depths of personal sacrifice and the enduring strength found amidst adversity. Through vivid storytelling, Sanelisiwe offers a voice to those who have been silenced, urging a call to action and self-empowerment.

About the Work

Sanelisiwe's poem is a raw and honest exploration of the emotional and physical toll of domestic abuse. It’s a narrative woven with powerful imagery and heartfelt sincerity, capturing the harrowing reality of living in fear and the societal pressures that often keep victims silent. The poem’s emotional depth is matched by its unwavering plea for change and the empowerment of women to rise against their oppressors. This work is a testament to the indomitable spirit that refuses to be subdued.

I kept quiet

Original Submission by Sanelisiwe Precious Mdakane

I kept quiet

Louder, that’s how deep i wanted to cry

But around my mouth he rapped his hand and then pointed a finger at me as a threat.

Oh no! He went faster and faster, pressing my lifeless body against the wall

Tears were rolling down my face but i kept quiet,

Quiet for my kids’ safety

For my kids to go bed with a full stomach

I was powerless and useless, that’s what he said before he could assault me, sexually.

He made me believe I was nothing because I had no qualification

The beatings, the pain and scars that I would be sure to hide when the sun arose for I wanted to stay strong for my children…it’s too much!

Sometimes I never did fall for his niceness; he would come with flower and do romantic dinner for his uneducated puppet

He made me feel special that I was even con into believing that he had changed, but little did I know that once an abuser, always an abuser, they never change, they just acquire new strategies as to how to manipulate you

“I did it for my kids…” maybe the dude was right, I am dump

We woman turn to sacrifice more than we should for our beloved kids and end up with nothing then transfer the pain to the same children we were trying to protect!

Don’t blame me! It’s only now that I realised I should have done better.

My right to life was violated because I sacrificed myself for the children that were of both of us;

He made me believe I was the only one responsible and I couldn’t provide for them

But he had forgotten how much I used to support him that I even put my dreams on hold…so to be his housewife and did everything I could for his to pursue his dreams but now he calls me useless, USELESS, mmmh useless…

Sometimes I wish I invested all my energy on myself for a better life

Sometimes I wish I reported him earlier

But its already too late, my hours are already numbered in this world; this hospital bed I’m lying on is already calling death upon me

But then again, it might be too late to save my life as a person, but it’s never too late to save the world through victimised women

Dear Woman…

He will never change,

Controlling your life makes him feel masculine so he won’t stop until you take actions

Your scars…I may not have seen them physically, but believe me when I say I know them, I have them

They itchy everyday but you can’t shout for you were told to keep it a secret or you will lose your life, buy you will lose your life anyways; just like I’m about to loss mine

You will either die of depression of physical pain, but one thing for sure; you will die if you don’t shout

Shout out for help!

You are not the only one it’s just that everyone is quiet

But if you don’t shout, one by one you will die

Remember you have rights and none of those rights should be violated

He shouldn’t have stopped you from going to school because you have right to education, but he did,

He shouldn’t have treated you like trash because you have right to human dignity, but he did

He should have threatened your life because you have right to life, but he did

He shouldn’t have paged your smartphone because you have right to personal privacy, but he did

And most importantly, he threatened to kick you and your kids out of his house because your children has right to parental care, shelter and food, but he did

How many of your rights should be violated before you take action, 9 10…how many!?

Do something about it

Remember you are the rose…among the thorns you’re found

Never allow abusers to get through you…you’re special woman

It not my justice that I’m looking for but I want the world to be a better place to live in for everyone, never ever repeat my mistake of keeping quiet…

Shout woman, shout

By Sanelisiwe Mdakane

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar offers a platform for writers around the world to share their voices and creativity. This esteemed competition celebrates the diverse expressions of human experience through poetry, short stories, essays, and other forms of creative writing. It aims to cultivate a global community of writers, encouraging them to explore and share their unique perspectives and stories.

We extend our deepest gratitude to Sanelisiwe Precious Mdakane for her poignant submission, "I kept quiet," to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Through her evocative words, Sanelisiwe has shed light on vital issues of resilience and empowerment. We are honored to share her voice with our audience and look forward to seeing more of her impactful work 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.