Someone Else’s Recipe - By Saran Kaba

Written By: Saran kaba

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the evocative poem "Someone Else’s Recipe," Saran Kaba delves into themes of identity and self-discovery. As a participant in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, Kaba presents a thoughtful exploration of finding one's unique path amidst external pressures. This piece is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, encouraging readers to embrace their own journey and personal creativity.

About the Work

"Someone Else’s Recipe" presents a metaphorical journey of personal growth and self-realization. Through vivid imagery and a contemplative tone, the poem articulates the struggle of conforming to others' expectations and the liberation found in crafting one's own narrative. The work paints a picture of introspection, depicting the bittersweet process of discarding external recipes for success in favor of one's authentic self-expression.

Someone

Original Submission by Saran kaba

Someone Else’s Recipe

They discussed this meal

Tasting delicious

Sold everywhere

Priced for everyone but made for none

I searched every shelf

Reaching for the right ingredient

Following every recipe they wrote

And \still came back empty handed

I had been testing recipes

That were never familiar

Tastes I didn’t recognise

A meal that ended up bitter

I’ve been cutting the wrong veggies

And worst using the wrong knife

Asking for a new utensil

Until I no longer wanted to cook at all

Finally, I cut myself

On someone else's knife

Standing still, I put down the knife

Looking around for help

I stepped out of the kitchen

Letting the ingredients list behind me

I slowed down

And I write my own version of the meal

I will eat my own food

After a single bite

My soul will realise and recognise

The familiar taste and smell of my dish

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, celebrates diverse voices and creative expressions from around the world. This prestigious platform offers writers and poets the opportunity to share their art with a global audience. Participants engage with a vibrant community, fostering a deeper appreciation for literature and storytelling.

We extend our gratitude to Saran Kaba for sharing "Someone Else’s Recipe" with us. This insightful poem adds depth to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, inviting readers to reflect on their own journeys of self-discovery and creativity. Thank you for your contribution, Saran.

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.