The Waitress's Lament - By Pat van Zijl

Written By: Pat van Zijl

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the evocative poem "The Waitress's Lament," Pat van Zijl offers a poignant reflection on the struggles faced by many in a challenging economy. As part of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, this piece delves into themes of economic hardship and personal sacrifice. Through vivid storytelling and heartfelt emotion, van Zijl captures the voice of a waitress grappling with the demands of her job and the responsibilities of motherhood.

About the Work

"The Waitress's Lament" presents a vivid narrative that intertwines the personal and universal challenges faced by service workers. The poem is rich with imagery and emotion, capturing the protagonist's turmoil and resilience. Through its rhythmic structure and repetitive lament, it highlights the inequities in the workplace and the emotional toll of economic exploitation. The waitress's voice is both a personal cry and a broader social commentary, resonating with anyone who has experienced similar hardships.

The Waitress's Lament

Original Submission by Pat van Zijl

THE WAITRESS’S LAMENT

Jobs are always very scarce in a depressed economy.

A girl must have some income; all surely will agree.

I’ve three little ones at home and they depend on me,

For their daddy’s gone a-roving because he says he must be free,

So I work in this fine restaurant where the proprietor - well he

Is a fine successful businessman, but hard as hard can be,

For he pays us very little. We must depend on tips you see.

My troubled heart sighs, “Woe is me.”

But he just rubs his hands in glee.

For long, long hours I’m on my feet and they hurt most dreadfully.

We’re not allowed to sit a while to gulp a cup of tea.

It’s sometimes very hard to smile at revellers on a spree.

It’s quite unfair - the proprietor gets rich by exploiting those like me.

I daren’t question or complain or even make a plea

For a better dispensation, for I know how cross he’ll be.

“If you don’t like the job then go. That’s fine,” says he.

My troubled frame sighs, “Woe is me.”

But he just rubs his hands in glee.

It is really quite ironic, so it seems to me,

That the customers who wine and dine are paying for the service - it’s not free.

But they are really paying extra for what should be included in the fee.

Why must the proprietor’s assistants depend on customers’ generosity?

It is all so hope-destroying, I’m sometimes pushed to such degree,

That I’d love to speak these thoughts to him and, having done, just flee,

But I daren’t take that option, for the sake of my babes three.

My troubled soul grieves, “Woe is me.”

But - off to the bank - he just rubs his hands in glee.

*

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar celebrates the diverse voices of writers from around the world. This esteemed competition provides a platform for poets, storytellers, and essayists to showcase their talents and share their unique perspectives. Through this initiative, Hashtag Kalakar continues to foster a global community of creative minds, encouraging the exploration of new themes and ideas through the written word.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Pat van Zijl for sharing "The Waitress's Lament" with us. This powerful poem, a part of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, offers insight into the struggles and resilience of those navigating economic hardships. Thank you, Pat, for your contribution to this creative endeavor and for giving voice to such an important narrative.

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.