More Than Porcelain - By Dominique McLean

Written By: Dominique McLean

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Dominique McLean's poignant poem "More Than Porcelain" is a standout entry in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. As a participant in the poetry category, McLean delves deep into themes of identity and self-worth, challenging societal expectations that often confine women. Through vivid imagery and a resonant voice, the poem becomes a powerful exploration of liberation and self-discovery.

About the Work

"More Than Porcelain" captures the struggle against societal norms that seek to define and limit women. The poem's tone is both defiant and hopeful, using metaphors of porcelain and painted smiles to convey the fragility and strength found within. The imagery of breaking free from constraints speaks to a universal desire for autonomy and self-expression, making it a compelling read.

More Than Porcelain

Original Submission by Dominique McLean

More than Porcelain

“Cross your legs

and wear a smile”

Dust began to gather,

at the hem of my dress.

It was hard being porcelain;

to be posed as less.

“Lower your voice,

do not be vulgar.”

At my painted face

they poke and prod,

they say “Be a woman”

and my hinged neck learned to nod.

“Let the men talk,

they’re the only ones who can lead!”

They lift my skirts

and admire what’s sewn,

then grow cold and distant

when I’ve outgrown being shown.

“Be seen and not heard.”

For good jobs, I must plead,

as if my sex made me weak.

As if the blood inside my body

made me unfit to speak.

“Don’t wear that!

You’re such a whore.”

They blamed my painted smile for his actions,

as if he didn’t choose.

It was the dress they put me in!

and never the booze.

"You were made to be admired."

The shelf grew heavy with their words,

their hands, their rules, their shame.

I bore it all in silence

till I forgot my own name.

Then the cracks came - slow, then all at once,

and I began to bleed.

Not porcelain. Not property.

Just a woman finally freed.

—

“A woman is not property.”

I believed what i wanted,

i was my own person now,

not made to please a man

not made to be their “wow.”

I set down their script,

I refused the show,

for to be a woman

is to learn and grow.

Not to be pinned under a man’s eyes

Nor to be prim and proper

but to be myself, a woman

and a cycle stopper.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform celebrating diverse literary voices worldwide. It provides writers with an opportunity to share their unique stories and perspectives, fostering a global community of creativity and innovation.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Dominique McLean for sharing "More Than Porcelain" with us. Your participation in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 enriches the literary tapestry, offering readers a glimpse into the power of self-assertion and the journey toward true identity.

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.