So Love is Real & Lucky - By Takalani Nematswerani

Written By: Takalani Nematswerani

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Takalani Nematswerani graces us with a poignant entry titled "So Love is Real & Lucky" in the Poetry category for the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Through the lens of personal reflection and societal observation, Nematswerani weaves a narrative that explores the depths of love and the notion of luck. This submission invites readers into a journey of introspection and the universal experiences that shape our lives.

About the Work

"So Love is Real & Lucky" masterfully intertwines themes of love, vulnerability, and the randomness of fortune. The poem navigates the emotional landscape of self-love and the arbitrary nature of success and opportunity. With vivid imagery and a conversational tone, Nematswerani challenges the reader to consider the role of luck in their own lives, juxtaposed against the backdrop of personal experiences and societal structures.

So love is real & Lucky

Original Submission by Takalani Nematswerani

So love is real - Star

Silent

Late- night

Even after reality, this night of magic

would still go on

To feel,

she thought

was real.

With rising excitement, her friends went home

To their lovers

Then she washed up.

Still in his working clothes -

He looked so vulnerable

She was madly in love with him - and hadn't been able to confide, Thinking…

The right man!

She tried to salvage the remains

He was impossible to forget.

“I’m off, goodbye friend”

It's true.

Look for God’s sake you’re

too generous,

too forgiving

too naive.

Be careful!

You don't deserve that.

“But what if he’s the one”

“Can I call now?”

NO!

He already made it clear.

And so she stood there

And finally decided…

To love herself just as much

Lucky -Star

Matric

the year that determines it all

The year that takes the cup

The year that is surprisingly not all

Oh man…

You know what I think?

Matric is just a game of luck.

Actually, think about it

Aren't you

Lucky you pass well because your school decided to invest in great teachers Lucky you were born into a wealthy family that could afford millions of tutors Lucky that you still have both parents alive and healthy, supporting you throughout your journey

Lucky you were born with a mind that grasps concepts easily

Lucky you're not battling a mental health disease

Lucky you have food on your table every single day

Lucky you don't have to take supplements to memorise content greedy officials decided you needed to “prepare” you for the future

Lucky you enjoy all the subjects you do so passing is inevitable

Lucky you live in a comfortable home conducive to your studying

So DAMN lucky you have rich parents so comfort is guaranteed whether you pass or fail

But who am I

To judge matric

When all it is

Is a product of life itself.

Think about it

Aren't those millionaires lucky chance let them grow up in a fulfilling environment Aren't those successful artists lucky that they made music for the right audience at the right time

And isn't EVERYONE lucky that they won the real race at conception Life itself is just luck

But let me not deviate, this was directed to matric:

I hate you

The eyebags

The lost time

The lost relationships

The lost opportunities

Damn you’re awful

And yet

I love you

So I thank you

For building me

Teaching me

Nurturing me

You know I think it's time I admit (although ironic) How DAMN LUCKY I am

To have made it this far

and get to say

“Yes, I'm in matric”

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform that celebrates literary talent worldwide. It encourages writers to share their unique voices and stories, fostering a global community of creative expression. This competition is a testament to the power of words in bridging cultures and inspiring change.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Takalani Nematswerani for sharing "So Love is Real & Lucky" with us. Your contribution to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 enriches the dialogue on love and life’s unpredictability. We are grateful for your inspiring words and the introspective journey you've provided our readers.

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.