Of Course I Can - By Danielle Mia Newmarch

Written By: Danielle Mia Newmarch

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Danielle Mia Newmarch graces the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 with her poem, "Of Course I Can." As a participant in the poetry category, Danielle weaves a tapestry of wit and introspection, showcasing her unique voice. Her submission delves into the complexities of modern thought and communication, offering readers a glimpse into the playful yet profound nature of human interactions. This year's competition continues to celebrate diverse expressions of creativity from around the globe.

About the Work

"Of Course I Can" is a delightful exploration of the wandering mind. Danielle's poetic style combines humor with introspection, capturing the essence of distraction and the chaos of thoughts. Her vivid imagery and rhythmic flow invite readers into a world where reality blurs with imagination, creating a relatable narrative that resonates with the complexities of everyday life. The poem's playful tone offers a refreshing perspective on the nuances of human connection.

Of Course I Can

Original Submission by Danielle Mia Newmarch

Oh, of course I can – HA, no,

you think that email’s good to go?

A week (at least) must pass, must brew,

before I send whatever that was, too.

You think I’m listening? Cute. Adorable.

I heard “factory” and now (inexplicably)

I’m knee-deep in Oliver Twist, the musical,

full orchestra, empty bowl, a top-hatted residual

thought about workhouses and gruel and song –

wait. Wait. Where was I. How long

have you been talking? Doesn’t matter.

You said “drink water” – the audacity –

mid-sentence, like some hydration deity,

and now I’m not thinking about that at all,

I’m thinking: Poseidon. Trident. Art Deco or baroque?

Would he do minimalist? Is that a joke

he’d even get? He’s a god, not a critic –

WAIT. Rewind. Full stop. Back up the tape –

of course I can repeat, word for word, shape

for shape, everything you just said to me –

but what, in the swirling chaos of eternity,

did either of us actually just say?

Gone. Vanished. Lost to the fray.

Hold on – hold on – of course I love you,

to actual bits, I mean it, it’s true,

I just didn’t reply because I froze, blanked, spun,

and then the kettle screamed, boiled over, done,

and you – you blipped clean out of reality

for a solid five minutes, total casualty

of the moment.

You telling me that’s not normal?

That headaches-from-talking isn’t a thing?

That your brain doesn’t short out mid-conversing,

sparking, rebooting, occasionally cursing

the very concept of linear time?

Oh. Oh, no. Haha. No.

That’s not a me problem, that’s a you thing.

You’re just boring. Deeply, tragically so.

Be better. Be faster. Rhyme while you’re at it.

And for frog’s sake – for the whole entire swamp’s sake –

keep. up.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious event celebrating literary excellence from all corners of the world. This platform provides writers and poets the opportunity to showcase their talents and share their creative visions with a global audience. The competition highlights the power of words in expressing the myriad emotions and stories that define the human experience.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Danielle Mia Newmarch for her captivating submission, "Of Course I Can." Her participation in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 enriches the vibrant tapestry of voices and perspectives celebrated in this esteemed event. We look forward to seeing more of Danielle's creative endeavors in the future.

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.