The Sink King - By Marinus van Deventer

Written By: Marinus van Deventer

Category: poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Marinus van Deventer, known by his writing name "The Sink King," invites readers into a whimsical world with his poetry submission titled "The Sink King." This engaging piece is part of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, a prestigious platform that showcases diverse literary voices. In this poetry category entry, Marinus crafts a narrative that dances between humor and satire, capturing the essence of folly and the human condition with a light-hearted touch.

About the Work

"The Sink King" is a delightful exploration of hubris and folly through the metaphor of a porcelain ship. Marinus van Deventer's playful use of language and rhythm creates a vivid imagery that brings the tale to life. The poem's whimsical tone and clever narrative structure highlight the absurdity of blind confidence, offering a satirical commentary on leadership and authority. The imagery of the sinking ship serves as a poignant reminder of the perils of ignoring expert advice.

The Sink King

Original Submission by Marinus van Deventer

The Sink King

The drain holes are not watertight,

or so the shipwright thinks.

But what do shipwrights know of ships?

They're certainly no kings!

Glory to the Sink King

on this glorious’t of days—

we’ll see the maiden voyage

in the olden Sink King's bay.

Our ship is not of wood,

nor iron rod or tungsten screw:

The King's own porcelain design.

Not the shipwright, nor the crew's.

Glory to the Sink King—

he made the ship of sinks

so that, like the Sink King,

it is no rinky-dink.

Ship shipped from the palace;

the crew is soon to board.

The shipwright seems concerned

but is, of course, ignored.

Glory to the Sink King!

The King’est King's arrived

atop the ship he’s dubbed

"The Sink King Enterprise."

The ship's now slowly lowering

from drydock to the bay,

Sink King on the mast—

and to this very day…

I remember all the shouting

as our Sink King Enterprise

started sinking in the bay,

and King met his demise.

The drain holes were not watertight—

Just as the shipwright claimed.

But what do shipwrights know?

A king cannot be blamed.

If the King has said it's so,

the air is watertight!

Glory to the Sink King!

He was always right!

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a celebrated event that brings together poets and writers from across the globe. It aims to provide a platform for creative expression, allowing participants to share their unique voices and perspectives. The competition celebrates the art of storytelling in its many forms, fostering a vibrant community of literary enthusiasts and offering a stage for both emerging and established writers.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Marinus van Deventer for sharing "The Sink King" with us in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. His poetic narrative, rich with whimsy and satire, adds a delightful dimension to the competition. We appreciate his contribution and look forward to more of his creative endeavors 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.