Voodoo Doll - By Amira Dayana

Written By: Amira Dayana

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Amira Dayana presents her evocative poem "Voodoo Doll" in the esteemed Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This entry in the Poetry category delves into the depths of emotional vulnerability and the struggle for self-worth. Through poignant imagery and heartfelt expression, Amira crafts a narrative that resonates with the complexities of human emotions and relationships.

About the Work

"Voodoo Doll" by Amira Dayana is a haunting exploration of emotional pain and resilience. The poem captures the essence of feeling discarded and manipulated, using powerful imagery and metaphor. The tone is melancholic yet defiant, as it speaks to themes of self-inflicted wounds and the longing for recognition and healing from others. The literary style blends vivid visual elements with introspective musings, creating a powerful emotional impact.

Voodoo Doll

Original Submission by Amira Dayana

You hold me up to the highest of standards

to put me down on the highest shelf

Sulking amongst old sketchbooks and paperbacks

Dragging my limbs through the dust like a phantom in the snow

I peer off the edge,

A hundred foot fall from grace

A button eyed doll with a stitched up face

Left to my own devices to reminisce of good old days

I spend my time with a box of needle and thread

trying to mend my ripped and tattered edge,

wishing it was you who'd sew me back up instead

I once met a voodoo doll pierced through the arm

Self inflicted, she'd called it sweet revenge

So I stick a needle in my eye,

pinprick my heart and hope to die

If it could only get you to look my way

Needles pierce me like points of blame

and you don't even flinch

With more and more force, straight through into plywood

A false belief crucifixion when wounds in stuffing don’t kill

Once a ragdoll of fine stitching,

forgotten when you ripped them out

Paid for and played for a fool

And no amount of hurting myself could ever hurt you

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform celebrating literary creativity and expression. It invites participants worldwide to showcase their talents in various categories, offering a space for writers to share their unique voices and perspectives. This competition fosters a global community of writers and poets, encouraging artistic exploration and innovation.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Amira Dayana for her compelling submission, "Voodoo Doll," to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her evocative portrayal of emotional depth and vulnerability enriches the tapestry of voices in this esteemed event. We look forward to seeing more of Amira's insightful 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.