It Can't Be Right - By Barbara Geldenhuys

Written By: Barbara Geldenhuys

Category: Villanella Poem

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Barbara Geldenhuys graces the stage of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 with her Villanella poem, "It Can't Be Right." In this moving piece, Geldenhuys navigates the turbulent waters of grief and loss, a universal theme that resonates deeply through her masterful use of language and structure. Her submission stands as a testament to the enduring power of poetic expression.

About the Work

"It Can't Be Right" envelops the reader in an emotional landscape where grief and heartbreak are palpable. Through the Villanella form, Geldenhuys crafts a haunting melody of repeated refrains and vivid imagery. The poem delves into the sorrow of loss, capturing the rawness of a heart's lament against the backdrop of life's unyielding march. The mood is somber, yet there is an undercurrent of resilience and introspection that invites reflection.

It Can't Be Right

Original Submission by Barbara Geldenhuys

It Can’t Be Right

My heart screams out a bitter cry tonight,

It leaves me all shattered, almost broken,

A death so horrible it can’t be right.

And yet, these muted pleas are hushed and tight,

Grief is cruel, my words have yet awoken,

My heart screams out a bitter cry tonight.

Thoughts deep inside echo a stillborn fight.

Dying too soon leaves a tender token.

A death so horrible it can’t be right.

The mocking sun makes cloudy days look bright.

Silly moments leave the pain unspoken.

My heart screams out a bitter cry tonight.

Night’s lonely dreams are not a sweet delight,

Before the grave vows were softly spoken,

A death so horrible it can’t be right.

Prayer can heal, and then you learn to fight.

Through inward tears, quiet strength is chosen.

My heart screams out a bitter cry tonight.

A death so horrible it can’t be right?

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar celebrates literary excellence across the globe. This prestigious event provides a platform for poets and writers to showcase their talent and creativity. With no claim of prizes or rankings, the competition focuses on the beauty of written expression and the diverse voices that contribute to the world of arts.

We extend our gratitude to Barbara Geldenhuys for her poignant contribution, "It Can't Be Right," to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her work enriches the tapestry of creative writing, offering insight and emotion that resonate with readers worldwide. Thank you, Barbara, for sharing your voice with us.

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.