Imprison - By Sonwabise Maku

Written By: Sonwabise Maku

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the realm of poetic expression, Sonwabise Maku brings a powerful voice with their poem "Imprison," a poignant entry in the Poetry category for the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. "Imprison" delves into the complex emotions of unrequited love and the struggle between longing and liberation. Maku's work is a testament to the art of capturing deep emotional truths within the framework of poetry.

About the Work

"Imprison" navigates the intricate dance between desire and detachment, illustrating the binding nature of love and the pain of holding onto someone who remains unaware of or indifferent to one's affection. The poem's mood is both haunting and reflective, using vivid imagery to paint a portrait of emotional captivity. Maku's literary style draws readers into an intimate exploration of heartache and resilience.

Imprison

Original Submission by Sonwabise Maku

You exist as the bane of my existance

and my elixar of life.

My infactuation you are blind to and resist

Cruel contentment lays with me

Knowing my life continues

While you hold half my heart.

I started taking it back

piece

By

piece

You clutched the beating talisman

Without acknowledging the blood

warming your hands.

You clutch it tighter and tighter occasionally using that which stains you

painting illusions of our future in red.

And until red turns to mercury gray

and you've buried that piece of me

(that piece of you) with me

I will always be yours to imprison.

-Sonwabise Lungaka Maku

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a platform celebrating the richness of literary arts across the globe. This competition brings together writers and poets from diverse backgrounds, offering them a stage to showcase their creative talents and share their unique voices with a worldwide audience.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Sonwabise Maku for sharing their evocative poem "Imprison" with us. It is through such compelling submissions that the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 continues to thrive as a beacon for artistic expression. We look forward to seeing more of Maku's inspiring 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.