The Quarter Black Bull - By Marinus van Deventer

Written By: Marinus van Deventer

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Marinus van Deventer, writing under the evocative name "The Quarter Black Bull," brings a powerful piece of poetry to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Titled "The Quarter Black Bull," this poem delves into themes of family, identity, and the echoes of heritage. With a reflective tone, Marinus crafts a narrative that explores the complexities of familial connections and the silent stories that bind generations.

About the Work

"The Quarter Black Bull" by Marinus van Deventer is an introspective exploration of ancestral ties and the quest for understanding one's heritage. Through vivid imagery and a poignant narrative, the poem examines the relationship between the speaker and their past, uncovering the layers of identity and belonging. The mood is contemplative, inviting readers to ponder the significance of legacy and the silent bonds that connect us all.

The Quarter Black Bull

Original Submission by Marinus van Deventer

The Quarter Black Bull

My grandma's stone lays empty,

with unmarked ground presenting

as if I hadn't liked her much,

but truth is I ain't know enough.

Though my pappie wouldn't say

why he'd see her every day,

when he did, he'd whisper

in a language he spoke rough.

One day Pap, he came to speak,

told me grandma needed me.

Wanted roses for her stone,

To feel that one bit less alone.

Where we're from it is barren,

and for roses we'd need trenches,

so, I'd need to get the right tools.

A beast of burden— man and bull.

It was the Garden Route, they call it,

where 'pon a Cape locomotive

I went to get a black bull

and give their teeth a look.

The teeth you see, the ivory,

length, size, and colouring

were catalogued by Spin Street

where I'd just reserve a seat.

Got talkin' to the auction clerk

on matters of our common blood,

when he asked what brought me there,

and I told'em 'bout Pappie and his prayer

"Lala ngoxolo, sithando sethu,

siyobonana, siyethemba."

Well, I'd copied him as best he'd shown

When eyes burned me to blackened bone.

Thus, the rules were clarified,

I'd not stay on the biddin' side.

my teeth turned bovine by decree

that said a quarter sullied me.

Chained and dragged out by the feet—

my place reserved in old Spin Street,

where my tainted bull blood's sold

with bones declared, and name unknown.

Well, grandma's stone stayed empty,

and we're likely two of many

who, just like our old an' empty stones,

had better get used to bein' dead alone.

“Rest in peace, our beloved,

we will see each other again, we hope.”

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, is a prestigious platform celebrating the art of written expression. This competition invites writers and poets from around the world to share their unique voices and stories, fostering a vibrant community of creativity and literary excellence. Participants showcase their talents, contributing to a rich tapestry of global narratives.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Marinus van Deventer for sharing "The Quarter Black Bull" with the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your contribution enriches the competition with its depth and reflective insight. Thank you for offering readers a glimpse into the intricate dance of family and identity.

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.