One Drop Too Many - By Ethan Naidoo

Written By: Ethan Naidoo

Category: poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Ethan Naidoo, writing under the name "one drop too many," presents a compelling piece in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. His poem, titled "One Drop Too Many," is a powerful reflection categorized under poetry. Ethan's work delves into profound themes of struggle and despair, painting a vivid portrait of an internal battle against overwhelming forces. Through his evocative language, the poem invites readers to ponder the depths of human experience and emotion.

About the Work

"One Drop Too Many" by Ethan Naidoo is a haunting exploration of life's relentless challenges and the pursuit of relief. The poem's mood is somber and introspective, using a repetitive structure to emphasize the sense of drowning in despair. Through stark imagery and a rhythmic cadence, Ethan crafts a narrative that speaks to the cyclical nature of struggle. The work evokes a vivid sense of helplessness, leaving the reader to grapple with its poignant message.

one drop too many

Original Submission by Ethan Naidoo

One drop too many

It won’t stop

I won’t, I can’t

make it stop

the same way gravity tries to keep me standing

make it stop

that empty echoing cave with that wretched sound

make it stop

one drop, two drops, then he drowned

the sound stopped couldn’t you tell you found a corpse

he wasn’t bound or wounded just surrounded by those drops

like a storm they kept coming and he screamed stop

the sky didn’t care

why try to perform

it made him high

they knew he’d conform

open wide

one drop, two drops, then he drowned

they’re sly and always wear a tie

I know they cry too, but he had to die

it won’t stop

I can’t stop

you’re not the bad guy but you gave me those drops

the cops won’t even look your way

they just grab mops and call it a day

one drop, two drops, then he drowned

I see them, the treetops I never reached the hilltops I never sat on

I had to be high or die, my body didn’t want to try anymore

I came to you, I put out my hand and let you pour into it.

You said it would only be four, but every time I came back you made it more

I see the shore, and I know I won’t be sore for long

doctor you did your best

dressed like a cloud

giving me hard little drops

I was stressed I didn't know you just guessed

I ran out of stops

I was just depressed but blood test after blood test said I needed more drops

I got obsessed with the flavor

slowly I got braver and signed a waver

time to rest

one drop, two drops, then he drowned

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform celebrating diverse literary talents worldwide. It offers writers an opportunity to share their unique voices and perspectives through poetry, short stories, essays, and creative writing. The competition fosters creativity and encourages participants to explore a wide spectrum of themes and styles, showcasing the power of words to inspire and connect.

Thank you, Ethan Naidoo, for sharing your poignant poem "One Drop Too Many" with us in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your exploration of profound themes through poetry is truly impactful. We look forward to seeing more of your evocative work 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.