The Wolf at the Front of the Room - By Chloe Lubbe

Written By: chloe.lubbe

Category: poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Chloe Lubbe presents a poignant exploration of identity and societal expectations in her poem "The Wolf at the Front of the Room." Featured in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, this work delves into the complex interplay between personal nature and imposed roles. Lubbe's entry in the poetry category offers a captivating exploration of themes resonating with individuals who navigate the tension between authenticity and conformity.

About the Work

"The Wolf at the Front of the Room" by Chloe Lubbe uses vivid imagery and metaphor to illustrate the internal struggle of a wolf in sheep’s clothing. The poem's tone is both haunting and introspective, capturing the essence of a creature torn between its true nature and societal demands for gentleness and compliance. Through evocative language, Lubbe skillfully conveys the tension and resilience required to maintain one's identity amidst external pressures.

Chloe Lubbe

Original Submission by chloe.lubbe

The Wolf at the Front of the Room

They pinned a badge to my chest and called it honor-

But badges don't fit over fur,

honor means nothing to an animal

who survives by never being touched.

I stand assembly,

fangs polished white as wool,

I watch their faces

soft, trusting, sheep-smooth

waiting for me to be gentle,

waiting for me to be good,

waiting for the strange sheep

to bark instead of snarl.

But I am not good.

And I am not gentle.

But now I am meat to be the shepherd’s son

To hold the door open?

To smile at the farm wives?

To say yes, ma'am, no, sir, while my ribs still gnaw

from the last time I submitted to the famer?

I have sharpened my tongue

into something to be feared by the hunter

They will see it

the hunger under the uniform,

the way my voice drops when I am hungry,

The way my patience has teeth marks on it

from years of the muzzle.

Terrified they will hand the badge to someone softer.

Someone who never bites

as no one ever gave her reason to.

Someone whose hands don't shake during scoldings

because her puppy years didn't train her for ambush.

Because they could afford to make mistakes.

But I stay.

I pin the badge on anyway.

I stand at the front of the room

with my teeth hidden behind a smile

I want to be soft

But I am a wolf,

In a world for sheep.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform celebrating artistic expression worldwide. It invites writers and poets to share their unique voices and perspectives through diverse genres, fostering a global community of creativity and literary excellence.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Chloe Lubbe for her inspiring contribution to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. "The Wolf at the Front of the Room" is a powerful testament to the courage required to remain true to oneself. We are grateful for your participation and the depth of emotion your work brings to the competition.

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.