The Weight of Maybe - By Vanessa Violet Cedric Gumbu

Written By: Vanessa Violet Cedric Gumbu

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Vanessa Violet Cedric Gumbu presents a moving piece titled "The Weight of Maybe" under the category of Poetry. This poignant work is part of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, showcasing a theme of introspection and the delicate dance between solitude and self-discovery. Vanessa's poem invites readers to ponder the quiet questions that often linger in the recesses of the mind, making it a compelling addition to this esteemed international competition.

About the Work

"The Weight of Maybe" delves into themes of isolation, introspection, and the intricate barriers we construct around ourselves. Vanessa's use of metaphor and imagery paints a vivid picture of a soul trapped behind a metaphorical door, grappling with the fear of vulnerability and the desire for connection. The poem's melancholic tone captures the essence of self-imposed solitude while gently nudging the reader towards the possibility of liberation and self-awareness.

The Weight of Maybe

Original Submission by Vanessa Violet Cedric Gumbu

The Weight of Maybe

How come my phone doesn’t ring?

What if one day I went missing?

Would anyone come knocking at my door?

Or would my memory be discarded on the floor?

I peer through the hole,

Wondering if I’m seen at all.

I speak, no one hears what I say,

Yet behind the door I still stay.

What if someone comes knocking, only to leave?

Then I’m left alone again to grieve?

Maybe I should just stay here alone,

Collecting dust like the phone.

But no one has ever tried to turn the key,

Or maybe I never let them see

The person hiding behind the door,

The one silently hoping for more.

But what if the door wasn’t locked from the outside?

And it was my own choice to stay and hide?

What if I’m the one who turned the key,

Preventing myself from being free?

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform celebrating the art of words. It invites participants from around the world to share their original works, fostering a rich tapestry of voices and stories. This competition highlights the power of creative expression in connecting diverse cultures and perspectives through the universal language of literature.

We thank Vanessa Violet Cedric Gumbu for sharing "The Weight of Maybe" with us. Her participation in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 enriches the literary landscape with its depth and introspection. We look forward to seeing more of her evocative work 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.