Salted Porridge - By Marinus van Deventer

Written By: Marinus van Deventer

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Marinus van Deventer's evocative poem, "Salted Porridge," graces the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, a renowned platform for literary expression. This entry in the poetry category reflects Deventer's unique voice and depth of sentiment. The poem delves into the complexities of human emotion and relationships, offering a poignant metaphor as its central theme. Participate in this literary journey where words evoke a world beyond the ordinary.

About the Work

"Salted Porridge" presents a haunting and vivid exploration of love, memory, and the scars they leave behind. Through compelling imagery and a stark yet profound narrative style, Marinus van Deventer invites the reader into a world where everyday objects gain emotional weight. The poem’s mood is melancholic and contemplative, as it uses the metaphor of an unusual meal to explore themes of loss and longing.

Salted Porridge

Original Submission by Marinus van Deventer

Salted Porridge

This porridge that's made of gravel and tar

makes for a meal that is filling enough,

but ash ain't the salt of the earth by far.

I know why my songbird sings by the bar:

You beg of me something—a meal. a touch.

This porridge that's made of gravel and tar.

Yet lovebird, you stole the key for my car,

so I'll stay and smoke till my palate's rough,

'cause ash ain't the salt of the earth by far.

While you're out I'll take to counting each scar.

The bruised throats, and burnt mouths, prove we once loved

this porridge that's made of gravel and tar.

Truth is, choked down, this muck don't taste subpar.

Its seasoning clings to people like us,

but ash ain't the salt of the earth by far.

My eyes are just trays to kill your cigars.

My tears are the ash from each one we puff.

This porridge is made of gravel and tar,

And ash ain't the salt of the earth by far.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious event celebrating the power of the written word. This competition showcases diverse voices from around the world, offering a platform for poets and writers to share their work with a global audience. Participants contribute to a vibrant literary community, fostering creativity and innovation in contemporary writing.

We extend our gratitude to Marinus van Deventer for sharing "Salted Porridge" with us in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This poignant piece enriches the tapestry of voices that make this event a celebration of literary artistry. Thank you, Marinus, for your contribution to this creative journey.

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.