She Who Maps the Stars - By Cheryl Oosthuizen

Written By: Cheryl Oosthuizen

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Cheryl Oosthuizen, writing as She Who Maps The Stars, brings forth a resonant piece, "She Who Maps the Stars," in the Poetry category of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This poem takes readers on a journey through mythology and introspection, where the convergence of symbols and reality unfolds in a tapestry of lyrical expression. Cheryl's contribution to this distinguished competition reflects a profound exploration of identity, creativity, and the celestial.

About the Work

In "She Who Maps the Stars," Cheryl Oosthuizen crafts a narrative rich with imagery and introspection, weaving themes of mythology and personal transformation. The poem's evocative language and metaphoric depth invite readers to delve into a realm where time, fate, and identity coalesce. Through her lyrical style, Cheryl explores the intricacies of human experience, offering a reflection on the mysteries of existence and the courage to rewrite one's own narrative.

She Who Maps The Stars

Original Submission by Cheryl Oosthuizen

She Who Maps the Stars

By Cheryl Oosthuizen

She walks between symbols and soil,

were data bleeds into myth,

and hour shifts hum like runes beneath her palms-

every ton per hour another whisper

from the engine of time.

Her mind is a codex in bloom,

annotated by fate and firelight,

where ancient truths stir awake

in the margins of spreadsheets and dreams.

She doesn’t just ask questions.

She distils wonder into ink.

A seeker in Cancer’s tide-

soft-hearted, steel-spined, moon-lit,

she loves as if language could sing,

naming her beloved with constellations:

Treasure. Honey. Heart.

Each word a vessel, evolving,

like rings in a tree that survived the storm.

She debates justice, embraces paradox,

and finds clarity not in certainty

but in co-creation-

every fear a cipher, every ache

a myth she’s brave enough to rewrite.

She is alchemy. She is archive.

She is symbol and synthesis,

mapping her becoming

not with directions,

but with devotion.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar celebrates the art of written expression, providing a platform for poets and writers worldwide to share their unique voices. This prestigious event is dedicated to discovering new talents and promoting the diversity of themes and styles in poetry and creative writing. It fosters a global community of literary enthusiasts who appreciate the beauty and power of the written word.

We extend our gratitude to Cheryl Oosthuizen for her thought-provoking submission, "She Who Maps the Stars," to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her contribution enriches the tapestry of voices gathered in this celebration of creativity and literary artistry. Thank you, Cheryl, for sharing your vision and inspiring others through your poetic 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.