I’m tired, in a way I can’t explain. - By Asande Kubone

Written By: Asande Kubone

Category: Personal Essay

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Asande Kubone graces the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 with a deeply introspective personal essay titled "I'm tired, in a way I can’t explain." In the Essay category, this piece delves into the emotional intricacies of living with persistent fatigue and the weight of life's uncertainties. Kubone's narrative resonates with anyone who has felt the constant pressure to brace for the unexpected, all while longing for moments of unadulterated happiness.

About the Work

In "I'm tired, in a way I can’t explain," Asande Kubone articulates the struggle of persistent emotional fatigue. Her writing captures an intense introspection, reflecting a mood of weariness intertwined with resilience. The essay offers a poignant look at the human condition-where dreams seem elusive and life’s unpredictability demands endless preparation. Kubone uses vivid imagery and an honest voice to convey a message of perseverance amidst overwhelming odds.

I’m tired, in a way I can’t explain.

Original Submission by Asande Kubone

Asande Kubone

Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Personal Essay Submission

Email: Asande.noluthando1@gmail.com

I’m tired, in a way I can’t explain

It feels like I’m constantly trying to make it through life and all it has to offer. It constantly feels like I need to prepare for any unfavourable outcome life throws my way. Like I’m not allowed to be too happy, and that at the back of my mind, I need to find a way to prepare for unforeseen circumstances.

I’m tired in a way that I can’t explain because it feels like my dreams keep moving further and further away from me. When this year started, I wished for nothing but a bit more ease. I won’t lie, I did experience it in certain areas of my life, and in those moments, it really felt like a weight was lifted off my shoulders. In those moments, I did the best I could to ignore the pessimistic voice at the back of my head that said, “Prepare for the unknown.”

Now that I’m in a season that’s causing great discomfort, I find myself feeling a bit frustrated… like I should have prepared for this. I’m tired, tired of feeling like I can’t fully live in a happy moment and just allow it to consume me. I’m tired of feeling like there’s this impending doom that keeps following me, like everything I wish for is out of reach.

I know they speak of better days, and I’ve seen them. I know things won’t always be like this… it’s just that right now, I’m tired in a way I can’t even explain.

If I were a basketball player, I’d probably put the ball down so that I could catch a breather. But I can’t really do that right now. I need to do my best to show up, even on days when I’m running empty. I need to find a way to pace myself, because before I know it, this unexplainable tiredness won’t consume me as much… but for now, I’m tired in ways I can’t even begin to explain.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform celebrating diverse voices across the globe. It invites participants to submit original works in various categories, fostering a vibrant community of writers and poets. This competition aims to highlight the beauty of language and the power of storytelling in capturing the human experience.

Thank you, Asande Kubone, for your compelling contribution to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your essay, "I'm tired, in a way I can’t explain," offers an evocative glimpse into the challenges of enduring life’s relentless demands. We appreciate your candid exploration of fatigue and perseverance, enriching this year's competition with your unique voice.

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.