The Clock That Eats Us - By Chumisa Theodora Zantsi

Written By: Chumisa Theodora Zantsi

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Introducing Chumisa Theodora Zantsi and her evocative poem, "The Clock That Eats Us," a poignant entry in the Poetry category of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This piece delves into the universal theme of time and its inexorable march, capturing the essence of modern life's relentless pace and the introspective questioning it can provoke.

About the Work

"The Clock That Eats Us" is a reflective meditation on the passage of time and the repetitive cycles of daily life. Through vivid imagery and a contemplative tone, Zantsi captures the profound sense of existential unease that accompanies the mundane routines most people experience. The poem's rhythm mirrors the ticking of a clock, emphasizing the inexorable passage of time.

The Clock That Eats Us

Original Submission by Chumisa Theodora Zantsi

The Clock That Eats Us

We wake to alarms, the same old song,

pretend the day won’t feel too long.

Coffee cools in a chipped-up cup,

we drink it down, then fill it up.

The inbox swells, the rent is due,

we chase the tasks that multiply too.

We laugh at jokes that mask the dread,

scroll past the news we never read.

And here’s the thought that twists the knife:

what if this grind is all of life?

Not fire, not war, not skies that fall—

just endless cycles, nothing at all.

The mirror shows a weary face,

a stranger trapped in the same old place.

Dreams once bright now fade to grey,

yet still we march through each new day.

The streets are crowded, yet we’re alone,

voices buzzing like static on a phone.

We nod, we smile, we play along,

pretending weakness makes us strong.

The nights grow heavy, the silence loud,

we hide our truths beneath the crowd.

And deep inside, a quiet plea—

is this the fate of you and me.

We smile, we sigh, we play our part,

while shadows bloom inside the heart.

The clock keeps eating, tick by tick,

and tells us endings come too quick.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, celebrates the diverse voices and rich creativity of writers from around the globe. This prestigious competition provides a platform for poets and writers to showcase their talents and share their unique perspectives with a wide audience.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Chumisa Theodora Zantsi for her introspective contribution, "The Clock That Eats Us," to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her work resonates deeply, prompting reflection on the nature of time and life's relentless cycle. Thank you for enriching the competition with your poetic voice.

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.