The Hip Flask - By Marinus van Deventer

Written By: Marinus van Deventer

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Explore the evocative poem "The Hip Flask" by Marinus van Deventer, a distinguished entry in the Poetry category of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This annual event celebrates creative expression from around the world, welcoming participants to share their unique voices. Marinus, through "The Hip Flask," transports readers to a setting by the lake, capturing the interplay of thirst and temptation with vivid imagery and a reflective tone.

About the Work

In "The Hip Flask," Marinus van Deventer offers a rich tapestry of sensory details and introspective moments. The poem delves into themes of thirst, choice, and consequence, wrapped in a narrative that unfolds with both tension and curiosity. The use of tactile and olfactory imagery creates a vivid sense of place, while the internal conflict of the speaker adds depth. The style is both lyrical and contemplative, inviting readers to ponder the nature of relief and sacrifice.

The Hip Flask

Original Submission by Marinus van Deventer

The Hip Flask

We drank by the lake of corrugated sheets.

Its algae blanket tickled blistered feet.

The waters were to no one's taste,

but the sun bore a thirst in us,

so, we looked to the aged man in khaki pants

with a flask loosely hung from hip.

Untwisting the cap with a whistling

crescendo that dripped a sizzle against

the thirsting dirt—

a clear medicinal leaning,

smells as if something to be applied externally.

To my immediate horror they took a swig,

lifting their chin to heaven,

in, what seemed, an attempt to meet God.

Granted relief from his drought

he let his lips free of that torturous

substance, and pointed it to me.

My options seemed clear:

Mold spores in my lungs,

or a bosom companion for my stomach acid.

I thought I'd do my body the kindness of taking the flask.

At least the swill would leave no living trace,

no spot of mold, anywhere within me.

When I'd had enough—

when it hit my tongue,

I left.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, is a prestigious platform for writers worldwide to showcase their talents. This competition celebrates diverse voices and creative storytelling, encouraging participants to explore a wide range of themes and styles. It serves as an important venue for emerging and established writers to gain international recognition and share their work with a global audience.

Thank you, Marinus van Deventer, for sharing "The Hip Flask" with us in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your poem captivates with its vivid imagery and thought-provoking narrative. We appreciate your contribution and look forward to seeing more of your creative work in the future.

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.