The Shepherd and the Devil - By Hamna Marikkar

Written By: Hamna Marikkar

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, Hamna Marikkar presents "The Shepherd and the Devil," a captivating poem that delves into themes of curiosity and the darker aspects of human nature. This piece is part of the Poetry category and offers a reflective take on humanity’s complex relationship with perceived evil and innate fear.

About the Work

"The Shepherd and the Devil" explores the intriguing dynamics between a curious shepherd and the Devil himself. The poem's narrative style unfolds a thought-provoking dialogue that questions humanity's inherent capacity for wrongdoing, surpassing even the Devil's influence. Through vivid imagery and introspective questioning, Marikkar crafts a powerful commentary on fear and the evolution of human morality.

The Shepherd and the Devil

Original Submission by Hamna Marikkar

The Shepherd and the Devil

Hamna Marikkar

There once was a Shepherd

Who at the foot of the mountain, resided.

But one day curiosity consumed him, and he itched to know who rest atop it,

So he was going to climb, he decided.

With huffs and puffs,

Tired but quite hardwired,

He makes it to the top and discovers a dark cave.

He walks in, croaks out a timid “hello,”

And is greeted by the Devil, who stares at him, agape.

“And what, pray tell, brings you to my humble abode?”

The Shepherd is frightened, pale as the snow

For he had never been face to face with the Devil before.

“I was wondering who would dwell in such an unlikely place

They say the Devil can’t reach you

But I have reached him instead,

What do you do here?

Mustn’t you be whispering evils to Man?

Making them sin and stray from their Creator?

Isn’t that the only task for you at hand?”

The Shepherd was curious,

the Devil thinks for a pause.

“There is not much I do

Because Man, oh, they commit evil far worse than I thought.

The influence I had on them once upon ago,

It doesn’t affect Men the same anymore.

They evolved, but how they’ve evolved ever so terrifyingly!

I’m afraid of them, so I’ve come to live up here you see.”

The Shepherd nods in understanding,

It’s all true, he supposed.

The Devil might not reach you, climb a mountain if you may.

But Man,

Man will always be the one to fear, and it showed.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform for writers around the world to showcase their literary prowess. This competition celebrates diverse voices in poetry, short stories, essays, and creative writing, fostering a global community of creative expression.

We extend our gratitude to Hamna Marikkar for sharing "The Shepherd and the Devil" with us in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your thoughtful exploration of human nature and curiosity is a valuable contribution to this esteemed event. Thank you for your participation.

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.