It is What it is - By Shunant Wharton

Written By: Shunant Wharton

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, Shunant Wharton presents "It is What it is," a powerful contribution in the poetry category. This evocative piece delves into the complexities of life's illusions and the journey toward self-realization. Through stark observations and introspective reflections, Wharton invites readers to confront the realities of relationships and personal growth.

About the Work

"It is What it is" by Shunant Wharton explores themes of disillusionment, self-awareness, and resilience. The poem's mood is contemplative, with a candid literary style that unravels the facade of societal expectations. Through vivid imagery and introspective insights, Wharton reflects on the transient nature of pain and the strength found in self-reliance.

It is What it is

Original Submission by Shunant Wharton

It is what it is

As life went on

Certain things were never what they seemed

Marriage life was seen as an illusion from my point of view

Men began to serve no interest in life as I thought society said they used to.

Fairy tales mislead us so that we in turn could get the picture

That the way things went was smooth and in the wink of an eye, we could place our hands on what we wanted.

From a stone’s throw, we realize that the creative information of prince charming imparted to us served no good purpose whatsoever

But contributed to brainwashing our minds from the start

We were never notified that we’ll encounter narcissists along the way

Princesses were seen loving bulldogs who had nothing to offer but their hearts of stone.

How long can this go on? Forever?

I can be my prince since no one stayed permanently

But we’ll always be there to see ourselves grow.

So now I’ll be guarding my feelings

Would no longer appear to be passionately in love

The greatest downfall would be our inner thoughts

Measures of altruism could be considered something almost everyone took for granted

Soft-hearted individuals always amount to getting hurt in the long run

It’s back-breaking being a dove when nearly all who’ve entered your life were ravens

Overthinking was a crime, so I live in peace now

I’m fly enough to understand no one gave any second thoughts when flinging insults

It’s a new season in my life so I won’t either

Would be telling you how I feel so it won’t result in anger

It’s obvious that we can’t obtain the sunshine without accepting a little rain

Seems easy to detect our well-wishers in the sunshine

But we can only identify our loved ones when a thunderstorm approaches.

Pain is temporary

Wounds heal one day

The challenges experienced, the setbacks, the betrayals, disappointments among many others

Will be cherished as roses

As that of the happiest of memories

Started portraying my facial appearance in the same manner clothes were worn;

Plain, Printed, Damaged, and Rugged

Would be listening to the feedbacks within me

Disobeying them would have caused much trouble

Just won't be repeating the same mistakes as before

And those hoping that you’ll stay a gutter-rat all your life

They have another thought coming

I’ll rise one day

Won’t be lowering my standards for anybody anymore even if you’re supposed to be my heartbeat

I’ve developed the heart of a beast overtime

If you don’t like what I stand for, then you can freely leave

Healing over here my friend

What about you?

Shunant Wharton

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform showcasing diverse voices in literature. Participants from around the world engage in this vibrant celebration of creative expression, contributing original works that captivate and inspire audiences.

Thank you, Shunant Wharton, for sharing "It is What it is" with the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your poem's exploration of life's complexities and the journey of self-growth resonates deeply. We appreciate your unique voice and contribution to this global celebration of creativity.

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.