She Did Not Know - By Hlomla Ngqiniso

Written By: Hlomla Ngqiniso

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In an evocative poem titled "She Did Not Know," Hlomla Ngqiniso invites readers into a profound exploration of identity, faith, and existential contemplation. As part of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, this piece stands out in the poetry category. The poem delves into the nuances of personal struggle and spiritual reflection, capturing both the heart and mind of its audience. Through its verses, Ngqiniso presents a narrative that resonates with the universal quest for understanding and connection with the divine.

About the Work

"She Did Not Know" is a deeply introspective work that touches on themes of faith, identity, and existential inquiry. The poem's narrative weaves a rich tapestry of emotions, from reverence and submission to questioning and introspection. Ngqiniso's literary style employs vivid imagery and poignant questions that resonate with the reader, creating an atmosphere of both longing and revelation. The work challenges traditional notions of self and spiritual duty, inviting readers to ponder their own beliefs and existence.

She Did Not Know

Original Submission by Hlomla Ngqiniso

SHE DID NOT KNOW

By Hlomla Ngqiniso

I kneel at the mercy of your feet, Oh Father

I swirl the concoction burning my hands in anticipation

Fear…. excitement, to hear the words I have died to live for

For I cannot suffer because You tell me

“It was worth it, my child…my creation

For your mother bled for your existence to serve me

For I am that I am, that I am that is not yours

Yet you are mine…forever”

The vessel I dwell in is not mine

The sheath beneath me that births life is not mine

I cannot touch for what is not mine

For You have commanded me

“Thou shall not steal”

I wish to have my mind

For it to belong to me and not mankind

For it to not serve the deficit of this world

For it to be tied to me like the hands I serve you with

Am I wrong, Oh Father? Have I forsaken thee?

“You have not been created to fulfil the desires of this world”

That is what You said to my mother

Yet that is all that I do, for I fulfil You

Can you be saved from salvation?

Will I be damned for knowing what you have created?

Isaiah 35 verse 7, I cry to Him brethren

For He spoke, “I created will and woe, good and evil, I, the Lord do all these things”

Have mercy upon me, Oh Great One for I do not know what I have done

What have I done? What have I done? What have I done to thee?

To deserve to be trapped in a body that is not my own

My chest was made to feed those who will return me to You

My heart will love those who will return me to You

My cries will pleasure those who will return me to You

I am at the mercy of Your love

For it is unforgiving to thy vessel

Tell me the words by which You created me by

By which all mothers infect this earth with this diseased life

You said “I love you”

I love you

I love you

I LOVE

Yet I loath the day I saw the Sun for it bares me no mercy

My sisters have stained them for they are no more

They did not receive mercy by your hands nor your words

My breasts are cursed to bring life unto my enemies

For I have slept with The Devil who I serve

May my son have mercy upon His wife for she did not know

Neither did I, my child.

Neither did all of them

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, is a prestigious platform celebrating diverse voices in poetry and creative writing. This competition aims to bring together writers from around the world, offering them an opportunity to showcase their talent and creativity. Participants explore a variety of themes, pushing the boundaries of conventional literary expression and engaging with audiences on a global scale.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Hlomla Ngqiniso for sharing the poignant poem "She Did Not Know" with us. It has been a privilege to feature this thought-provoking piece in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Ngqiniso's powerful exploration of faith and identity has enriched the competition, offering readers a profound reflection on the human condition.

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.