Vulnerability - By Sello Lulamile Letsosa

Written By: Sello Lulamile Letsosa

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the captivating poem "Vulnerability," Sello Lulamile Letsosa, writing under the name Stroya, skillfully navigates the intricate dance between strength and fragility. As part of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, this entry delves into the layered experiences of wins and losses that shape our lives. Letsosa's work is a poignant exploration of vulnerability's dual nature and its impact on personal growth and resilience.

About the Work

Sello Lulamile Letsosa's poem "Vulnerability" masterfully captures the essence of vulnerability as both a source of strength and weakness. Through vivid imagery and emotive language, Letsosa portrays vulnerability as a powerful force that influences emotions and relationships. The poem's rhythmic flow and introspective tone invite readers to reflect on their own experiences with vulnerability, making it a resonant and thought-provoking piece.

Vulnerabilty

Original Submission by Sello Lulamile Letsosa

VULNERABILITY

Wins and losses complete the cycle of life

Doting on one more than the paves the trajectory of your path Vulnerability weakens you…

When losses have captured the essence of your heart

Contrarily it feels so empowering…

When the counterparts partly triumph over the weakening of your mind

Vulnerability weakens me

Buckled knees, handcuffed wrists, yet and still she instills in me a manly beast Infinite

Like yeast to dough, she feeds my soul

Within her warmth, my spirit grows

I plead to God, he keeps her close

He grants my wish, I overdose

I overdose, now I’m her prey

She grabs my balls, and feasts away

Dictates my days, and sways my moods

Elates in my pain, so she can drown in my blues

Vulnerability weakens me

But my urge to protect her;

Shit runs deep, liver of steel

Vacate my fear, and face the steel (gun)

Stake my life here, prepared to bleed

Though hell I fear, for her I’d kill

I thrive in my losses, they make me strong

Embrace the pain like when I’m putting gains on

I eat attempts for supper, and defecate loss

But all my wins reside in vulnerability, where all my strength is gone In her mist…

My joy is real, my pain is real

I laugh for real, I cry for real

My anger’s real, my patience’s real

I strive for real, submit for real

My love is real, my lust is real

I fight for real, subside for real

I spite for real, delight for real

I lose for real, I win for real

Vulnerability is my win, my greatest blessing.

Sello Lulamile Letsosa

Artist name: Stroya

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, celebrates the rich diversity of global voices in poetry and creative writing. Participants from around the world are invited to share their unique stories and perspectives, fostering a vibrant community of writers and poets. This competition serves as a platform for emerging and established writers alike to showcase their talent and creativity.

Thank you, Sello Lulamile Letsosa, for sharing "Vulnerability" with us in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your exploration of vulnerability's complex nature provides a powerful lens through which readers can examine their own emotions and experiences. We appreciate your contribution to this year's competition and look forward to seeing more of your insightful 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.