Just Ignore - By Tanya Warnakulasuriya (writing as T.P. Tovenaar, performing as Twitchy Witch)

Written By: Tanya Warnakulasuriya ( writing as T.P. Tovenaar, performing as Twitchy Witch)

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Tanya Warnakulasuriya, performing under the name Twitchy Witch and writing as T.P. Tovenaar, presents "Just Ignore," a powerful poetic entry in the Poetry category of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This impactful poem is dedicated to women worldwide who have been encouraged to overlook discomforting situations imposed by societal norms and male behaviors. Tanya’s evocative words resonate deeply, shining a light on the pervasive issue of gender-based harassment and the societal expectation to remain silent.

About the Work

"Just Ignore" is a stirring exploration of the emotional and psychological turmoil faced by women who are pressured to dismiss everyday instances of harassment and disrespect. Through vivid imagery and candid language, T.P. Tovenaar captures the frustration and resignation that accompanies these experiences. The poem's raw honesty and rhythmic cadence emphasize the pervasive nature of this issue, urging readers to reflect on the societal norms that demand silence from those who are marginalized.

Just Ignore

Original Submission by Tanya Warnakulasuriya ( writing as T.P. Tovenaar, performing as Twitchy Witch)

Just Ignore

By TP Tovenaar

Read by The Twitchy Witch

This poem is dedicated to all the women who have been told to ignore instances when they’ve been made to feel uncomfortable by men.

Just Ignore

Look at that man licking his lips,

As he leans against that door,

And scratches his balls like a monkey,

As he leers and jeers and gawps,

And we have to act like we don’t exist,

We have to Just Ignore.

And when your man belittles you

With jokes that in taste are most poor

Making out that you’re fat or too bossy

Just to get a laugh from the floor,

Do your best to rise above it

Don’t react, don’t back chat

Just Ignore.

And at work when your manager brushes past you

Accidentally dropping his papers to the floor

So he can see down your blouse as you crouch to get them

And fantasise about you doing much more,

Just remember you need that promotion

Say nothing, bite your tongue

Just ignore.

Going home on the bus or on a train ride

In packed carriages with room for no more,

When you feel that man grinding up against you

Don’t make a fuss,

Just ignore.

Because look where ignoring has got us

Not equal pay or equal say, but much more,

The right to treated like we don’t matter

The right to be abused

And ignored.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform celebrating diverse voices and creative expression. This renowned competition invites poets and writers from around the world to share their unique perspectives and stories. With a focus on originality and artistic excellence, it aims to elevate literature and foster a global community of creative talents.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Tanya Warnakulasuriya for her poignant contribution, "Just Ignore," to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her powerful words and unique perspective enrich the dialogue surrounding women's experiences and societal expectations. Thank you, Tanya, for sharing this compelling piece with us and the world.

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.