Seduced by the Sceptre, Anchoring Mountains That Yearn for the Moon - By Tatenda Marko

Written By: Tatenda Marko

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Tatenda Marko offers a captivating poetic journey with "Seduced by the Sceptre, Anchoring Mountains That Yearn for the Moon," a submission in the Poetry category of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. The poem explores themes of ambition and illusion, reflecting on the intoxicating allure of power and the dreams that drive individuals to extraordinary lengths. Marko's work invites readers to ponder the nature of desire and the subtle deceptions that accompany it.

About the Work

This poem intricately weaves a narrative of ambition and deception, utilizing vivid imagery and rich metaphorical language. The mood oscillates between wistful and cunning, as it delves into the psyche of those seduced by dreams of power and wealth. The imagery of mountains yearning for the moon and kingdoms swallowed by dreams paints a striking picture of the emotional and moral complexities involved in the pursuit of desire.

Seduced by the sceptre, anchoring mountains that yearn for the moon

Original Submission by Tatenda Marko

Seduced by the sceptre, anchoring mountains that yearn for the moon

White lies

Child's play

They only cast odd clouds

I prefer selling dreams

the kind that swallowed whole kingdoms

for greed is a popular kink amongst monarchs

I remember

When I fooled the ambitious young merchant

Convinced him

tempted

rather

He believed his intellectual yet subtle scripts and emotionally dense plays would lead him to the rumoured continents of sweet pleasures and intoxicating amounts of coin so heavy you need a chest and two giant forest men to carry it

To his credit

he fed the illusion so well

I almost felt pity for him

One night

the illusion sought to repay his kind efforts and swayed the commander of the king's elite knights to recruit him

By Tatenda Marko

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, celebrates the diverse voices and creativity of writers worldwide. This prestigious platform showcases works across various genres, offering a space for participants to express their unique perspectives and literary talents. It serves as an important cultural event, recognizing the art of storytelling and poetic expression.

We extend our gratitude to Tatenda Marko for sharing "Seduced by the Sceptre, Anchoring Mountains That Yearn for the Moon" with us. This poetic exploration of ambition and illusion is a fascinating addition to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Thank you, Tatenda, for your contribution and your compelling poetic voice.

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.