The Children of the Broken - By Hlomla Ngqiniso

Written By: Hlomla Ngqiniso

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the realm of evocative poetry, Hlomla Ngqiniso brings forth a resonant piece titled "The Children of the Broken." This poem is a part of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, which gathers voices from around the world to showcase their literary artistry. Ngqiniso's work delves into the themes of silence, familial bonds, and the search for identity amidst changing landscapes, offering readers a glimpse into the emotional tapestry of growing up in a home once filled with laughter and warmth.

About the Work

"The Children of the Broken" by Hlomla Ngqiniso captures a haunting transition from a home resonating with laughter to one marked by silence and longing. The poem's tone is introspective, weaving vivid imagery and a reflective narrative that invites readers to ponder the complexities of identity and belonging. The use of language conveys a sense of nostalgia and introspection, as the poet navigates the echoes of the past and the quest for understanding in an ever-evolving present.

The Children of the Broken

Original Submission by Hlomla Ngqiniso

THE CHILDREN OF THE BROKEN

By Hlomla Ngqiniso

I used to hate the silence

It was something unusual in my home

Where my mom's and grandma's laughter would fill up the hallway

Bathethe bathi "Hai man, Loli. Khawubeke lonto"

Ndingamameli ndiqhubeke ngomdlalo wam

The TV would be on maximum volume although I was too young to understand a word

I would play with ideas that seemed too absurd to be true

And write a story that I thought no other kids could construe

There was never a dull moment in what I used to call a home

Then I slept to noises of shouting instead of laughing

I wept tears of grief instead of pleasure

And I was still stuck by the bed, by the fridge, by the TV

Hoping that those sweet sounds would come back to me

I talked to the mirrors and the wardrobes

The TV was still on max, drowning the noise

The void, the time I had wasted mourning

Mourning what I could have been if I stopped dreaming

Stopped talking, just stop talking

If they couldn't listen to you then

Then why would they do it now?

Do you think you are more important than you were back then?

Do you think your friends love your complaining?

Disdain, disgust, vanity upon vanity, you lie

You reveal your secrets in hopes that someone will listen

Yet no one knocks when you close your eyes

No one cries when you go missing

And no one will ever know why you are the way you are

Keep smiling, keep talking, keep crying

The universe and time will be your comforters from now on

The tides will turn and they will listen

The moon shall shine and she will listen

The home you once knew is now simply a house

To whom touches its walls is unbeknownst to us

To those who are called "The children of the Broken"

Many words from this mind shall remain unspoken

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, serves as a prestigious platform for writers and poets to share their unique voices and perspectives. This competition celebrates the diversity of expression and creativity, inviting participants from across the globe to contribute their artistic visions. It is an opportunity for emerging and established writers alike to connect with a broader audience and engage in the rich tradition of storytelling and poetic exploration.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Hlomla Ngqiniso for sharing "The Children of the Broken" with us. Your contribution to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 enriches the tapestry of voices that make this event truly special. Thank you for inviting us into the vivid world of your poetry and for allowing us to experience the profound themes of change and introspection within your work.

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.