Water's Edge - By Oratile Mokgojoa

Written By: Oratile Mokgojoa

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the realm of evocative poetry, Oratile Mokgojoa delivers a compelling piece titled "Water's Edge" for the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This poem, submitted in the Poetry category, delves into the theme of trust and survival, painting a vivid picture of the ocean's deceptive allure and the harsh truths hidden beneath its surface.

About the Work

"Water's Edge" by Oratile Mokgojoa is a poignant exploration of the ocean's dual nature-its beauty and treachery. The poem's mood is reflective and somber, using powerful imagery to convey the ocean’s deceitful whispers and cruel depths. Through vivid metaphors, Mokgojoa articulates a struggle against the consuming nature of both the sea and life’s challenges, leaving a lasting impression on the reader.

Water's Edge

Original Submission by Oratile Mokgojoa

Water’s Edge

The ocean whispers lies I can’t trust.

Its gleam pulls but hides a cruel depth.

I’ve treaded waters where mercy drowned,

and shadows swirled like fins beneath.

The salt stings but less than the scars.

I’ve sunk before, beneath the thrashing,

where love was teeth, sharp and waiting.

Kindness is a concept lost in tides.

They say, plenty fish, plenty chances

yet each hook returns blood-streaked.

I’d rather drift numb, hollow like driftwood,

than mend what waves will rip apart again.

Far from shallows where safety fades,

I watch the horizon’s jagged promise.

No bait will tempt me into that dark.

Let the sharks keep their hunger, untouched.

I am better inhaling sky’s cold reach,

than gasping below where nothing sustains.

The sea has no truth, only devours.

And I’ve no heart left for its banquet.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, invites writers and poets from around the world to showcase their literary talents. This prestigious platform celebrates creativity and expression, offering participants the opportunity to share their unique voices and perspectives through various categories, including poetry, short stories, and essays.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Oratile Mokgojoa for sharing "Water's Edge" with us. Your participation in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 enriches the literary world and inspires others to explore the depths of their creative potential.

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.