I know I am not winning - By CADIENTE, Raphael P.

Written By: CADIENTE, Raphael P.

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In a contemplative piece titled "I know I am not winning," Raphael P. Cadiente offers a poignant reflection on life's complexity and the search for meaning. This entry, part of the Poetry category, is a submission to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. The competition serves as an international platform for poets and writers to showcase their creative expressions. Cadiente's work delves into the intricacies of human experience, enveloping readers in a world that balances the mundane with the profound.

About the Work

Raphael P. Cadiente's poem explores themes of introspection and existential contemplation. Through vivid imagery and introspective musings, the poet captures the dance between nature and human consciousness. The work juxtaposes natural harmony with the constructed confines of modern life, ultimately portraying a sense of longing and searching. Cadiente's use of language and metaphor invites readers to ponder the dichotomy of winning and losing in the broader tapestry of existence.

I know I am not winning

Original Submission by CADIENTE, Raphael P.

I know I am not winning

I sit on the toilet with my arms withholding.

The light of dawn sends me a TV from the window,

winding pictures of birch leaves swinging noir

in perfect harmony with the bird choir.

I look back if God gives up a sign

to give or forget.

I can see the green perfectly like the world

telling how more there is other than to bleed.

No amount of violence could untether the landscapes

that grew the antiquity to look after me.

But, my nape has lost its mirth

of trying to look for meaning.

In said window where the wind blows unlike

the air-condition they regulate at the faculty

rooms where troffer lights brim synthetic on skin,

where knowing feels like a faux heaven inhibition,

I can finally know everything

but in time, I will empty.

Rallyists propose the light to rise and set with men

Only answering from the pillbox-shaped lion dens.

Touching them, the bare fur from orange page margins

reflects sky, reflects sea, reflects innocence.

And, sense—some already have.

Sensibility—lost in a citadel.

“Wrong.”, says a null white paper with red lines.

My book, a blunt betrayer, when I'm back to frontlines.

I know I am not winning but the leaves danced

in shadow, in faith, just show, no tell.

There is no telling why men wear insignia like tails.

But, I feel it in the way their eyes tilt.

Classified files become unbecoming,

recloning like xerox from letters upending.

Withdrawing might be the only way to make ends meet.

Be one with grout in salacious defeat.

I know the doctors get the first aid in the face of death,

but I really aspire to be an angel without wings.

I fall to the floor knowing the blood is mercy

But, they did not provide a world for the worthy.

I look for signs in the soap, the dish, the lines.

The smell of Tide catches up with my time.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, is a prestigious event celebrating the diverse voices of poets and writers worldwide. This competition provides a platform for creative artists to express their thoughts and ideas through poetry and prose. Participants are given the opportunity to share their unique perspectives and contribute to the global literary community.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Raphael P. Cadiente for sharing the evocative poem "I know I am not winning" with us. Your participation in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 enriches the tapestry of voices in this international celebration of creativity. Thank you for offering your unique perspective and artistic vision.

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.