The Sunlight Trilogy - By Olwethu Hlatshwayo

Written By: Olwethu Hlatshwayo

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Olwethu Hlatshwayo presents "The Sunlight Trilogy," a compelling entry in the Poetry category of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This trilogy is a profound poetic exploration that delves into the essence of sunlight, myth, and the divine. With a thematic focus on the relationship between humanity and the celestial, Hlatshwayo's work invites readers into a world where mythology and nature intertwine in a dance of light and shadow.

About the Work

"The Sunlight Trilogy" is a masterful tapestry of imagery and symbolism. Through its verses, it explores themes of ambition, divinity, and sacrifice. The poem's mood shifts from the awe of celestial flight to the inevitable descent, capturing the delicate balance between aspiration and downfall. With references to mythological figures, it weaves a narrative that is both timeless and thought-provoking, urging readers to reflect on their own quests for light and understanding.

The Sunlight Trilogy

Original Submission by Olwethu Hlatshwayo

The Sunlight Trilogy

Icarian Sunlight

The glide between the heavens and the earth is deafening.

Gods bless the living roots that were

consumed by the flame,

the ox strapped against burning flesh

and the vulture whose head met with stone

to lift me closer and closer to you

Give me strength to endure

The burning wax and the blinding sweat

I watch you daily, rising and falling like an empire.

Close enough to melt away

yet far enough not to offend the likes of angels

I ignore the grazing Red deer

and farmers that lull the swines into their

confinements down below.

The waves that forewarn - crashing against jagged boulders

From the blissful mess of flight,

of reaching higher,

the sound of euphoria is unleashed onto the clouds surrounding

Then the fall:

feathers dispersing,

harness snapping,

wood bruising

Your descent into the earth was the

last thing I saw as the world collapsed into itself.

Now I watch you from the bottom of the ocean,

through the stinging water

Apollo,

did you always know you would carry the sun?

And if so, did you face your fate or did you run?

Down into the darkest valley,

The thickening bog

Down where death moves slowly…

When you saw those hollow rivers did you fright?

Did you fear coming face to face

with Hyacinthus’ might?

Did the dark threaten you with raptorial cold?

Did you crave the light?

So you crawled out of the palace of mournful eternity

Out of the cold dirt, out of the crevice of the earth.

You reached out to the sky, placed her on your shoulder.

Did she feel lighter? Warmer? Did she burn?

Does it matter?

Because you chose this hell on your own

You chose blazing summer skies and light

Apollo, God of the Sun,

Did you always know you would carry life with those gentle hands?

In lieu of Hyacinth(us)

How dare he.

How dare he fly so close

Reach out for the soft of your cheek

Does he know you

Already have a lover?

That blooms where blood spills.

Does he know you have known warmth?

More than the one on your shoulder,

Than the type you burden yourself with,

More than…

Soaring higher

Winged pyres

Inebriating desire

Celestial lyres

Your hatred seething,

Melting, burning, blackening

You smirked when it happened,

Thetis saw you.

The Fates threatened you

With love once more

And you simply said,

“Leave him to the nymph”

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, is a prestigious platform showcasing diverse literary talents worldwide. It celebrates the power of words to transcend boundaries and connect cultures. Participants engage in a vibrant exchange of ideas and creativity, offering fresh perspectives through their unique voices. This competition stands as a testament to the enduring importance of literature in our global community.

Thank you, Olwethu Hlatshwayo, for sharing "The Sunlight Trilogy" with us in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your evocative portrayal of myth and nature has enriched the tapestry of poetic expression. We appreciate your contribution and look forward to witnessing the continued evolution of your literary journey.

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.