This House - By Mariska Van Der Merwe

Written By: Mariska Van Der Merwe

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Mariska Van Der Merwe presents "This House," a poignant poetic entry in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This submission explores the theme of love and resilience, encapsulating the essence of a home beyond physical walls. Through her words, Mariska invites readers into a space built on emotional foundations, examining the bonds that keep us whole despite life's inevitable challenges.

About the Work

"This House" delves into the metaphorical significance of home, emphasizing emotional strength over physical structures. The poem is imbued with a reflective and affectionate mood, using vivid imagery to evoke feelings of warmth and security. Mariska's writing style is lyrical, with an emphasis on the deep connections shared between loved ones, underscoring the enduring power of love and trust.

This House

Original Submission by Mariska Van Der Merwe

This House

In this house with no address

Built from love and nothing less

Bring me the pieces of your day

I will carry them till you’re okay

Wherever you are, right there I’ll be

Reshape the fears you see in me

These rooms they echo still when you go

Leave your things, this house can overflow

Even if the walls topple,

and the roof caves in

The photos turn their back,

and the mirrors crack within

There is nothing that could take our home

It’s not this house that makes us whole

Because the foundation runs deep

Deeper than these secrets we keep

Even if the paint runs down,

and the chairs drift out of place

The shadows stretch further

than they have any right to take

Open the doors wide, let me into your trust

Let me fall into the space that holds us,

We dance around this house of dust

Cover our hems in streaks of rust

Even if the water rises up through these halls

And the tiles lift like they’re answering calls

Even when the hinges come undone

And the frames let go one by one

There is nothing that could take our home

It’s not this house that makes us whole

Because the foundation runs deep

Deeper than anything time can heap

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar celebrates diverse literary talent from around the world. This prestigious event provides a platform for poets and writers to showcase their creativity and share their unique voices with a global audience. Participants engage in a vibrant exchange of ideas, contributing to the rich tapestry of contemporary literature.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Mariska Van Der Merwe for sharing "This House" with us. Her contribution to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 enriches the event with its profound exploration of love and resilience. Thank you, Mariska, for your inspiring and evocative work.

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.