“Not all men, but always a man” - By Rubina Thyagani Rajaratnam

Written By: Rubina Thyagani Rajaratnam

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the poignant poem “Not all men, but always a man,” Rubina Thyagani Rajaratnam presents a compelling narrative that delves into the complex issues surrounding gender dynamics and societal norms. Submitted as part of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, this entry in the Poetry category opens up a conversation on the pervasive culture of fear and the urgent need for change. The poem courageously addresses sensitive topics, shedding light on the experiences and fears many women face in a world where their safety is often compromised.

About the Work

Rubina's poem is a profound reflection on the unsettling reality many women endure. Through vivid imagery and a conversational tone, the piece explores themes of fear, societal blame, and the hope for cultural transformation. It challenges readers to confront uncomfortable truths and advocates for a shift in societal attitudes towards gender and safety, urging both men and women to be catalysts for change.

“Not all men, but always a man”

Original Submission by Rubina Thyagani Rajaratnam

Trigger Warning (Sexual Assault and Abuse)

Disclaimer: This isn’t a perfect argument but just a conversation worth starting.

“Not all men, but always a man”

I hear how the words land and I want to disprove the theory but I’m not sure I can

“Not all men, but always a man”

I don’t think it’s right, and I think it’s women too—

(hold up, we are NOT to blame – unless of course, we do)

it’s not our fault, but there is a culture we can undo

It can feel overwhelming to be a woman living in a “man’s world”

(we’re not sure you’ll ever understand what it’s like)

Being afraid to take a walk in broad daylight (not just dark), because you’ll have someone waiting to call you into their car like that’s what you were made for

Being afraid to not just walk, but to even stand on a road because you’ll get thrown papers, objects or stones just so someone can have your glance

Being followed to work (while you’re of course, fully clothed) and having someone describe to you where you live, and the details of the house you own

Having cabs stop on lonely roads, and wondering if it’ll just be another story you told

Hearing of rapes, gang rapes, and little girls who had it done to them before they

even knew what was happening

What is happening.

How do you blame a girl that’s been raped for 7 hours straight by 7 men

by claiming that she gave consent?

Who ever would.

I walked down the street the other day, metres away from home,

only to be grabbed by a man on a bike—

I have a phobia now, of not just men, but bikes, buses, cabs, trucks and even being just mere metres away from home

and the worst part, is that I know I’m not alone

Because perhaps, it’s not all men, but nearly all women that have suffered abuse

and hold stories that are so easily brushed off and considered ‘taboo’

It isn’t all men, neither always a man, and I’ll stand with that,

but I’ll stand better with one that’s willing to change the course of the conversation

because I don’t want my daughter growing up in a world where everything she says is questioned and every corner lurks with someone waiting to make her question

if her existence is worth far less than.

I don’t think we speak enough about how common it all is, and all over the world. It’s so very well hidden and we keep hiding it. I could write words on a page and still never fully describe what it was like to question if I would lose my life at each and every instance. It blows my mind when I hear men themselves say that they’d rather leave their daughter with a bear than with a man – and it breaks my heart because I believe men can be safe spaces just as much (you heard me) as women can – and they should be. They could be. They can be. I still trust that.

P.S. It’s important when a man can say, “Hey, that’s not okay, is she okay?”

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious event that celebrates diverse voices across the world. It encourages writers and poets to share their unique perspectives and insights through creative expression. With categories ranging from poetry to short stories and essays, the competition aims to foster a global community of artists and thinkers.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Rubina Thyagani Rajaratnam for her evocative contribution, “Not all men, but always a man,” to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her work is a vital part of the ongoing dialogue about gender and societal change, resonating deeply with readers and sparking necessary conversations. Thank you, Rubina, for your courage and 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.