What a Pity? - By Shane Manilal

Written By: Shane Manilal

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Shane Manilal's poignant poem "What a Pity?" is a profound entry in the Poetry category of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar. Through his work, Manilal delves into the themes of human evolution, cultural diversity, and the shared genetic heritage that unites us all. This piece invites readers to reflect on the complexities of humanity and the often-overlooked commonalities that bind us together.

About the Work

In "What a Pity?", Shane Manilal explores the tension between scientific reality and cultural beliefs, urging readers to reconsider what they have been taught. With incisive language and vivid imagery, the poem confronts the myths and stories that have shaped human understanding, questioning the validity of deeply held convictions. Manilal's work challenges readers to embrace the truth of our shared humanity, emphasizing the futility of divisions based on superficial differences.

Shane Manilal

Original Submission by Shane Manilal

What a Pity?

By Shane Manilal

Nowadays, we know SO much more,

yet most of us are afraid to open the educational door.

Behind it, however, we can scientifically see,

That EVERYTHING we were taught, was just a fabled fantasy.

Scientific reality shows us the truth, a total difference,

yet most of us don’t want to jump the logical fence?

This planet we live on is so much older than we were told,

with proven evolution, that knocks every one of the 4200 documented religions twofold!

Yet, we still want to believe that what we know, and follow, is right,

and all others, even though, more than tree quarter of us, are doing the wrong worshipping plight?

Think on that, and also, the basic, most important aspect –

as homo-sapiens, we all simply belong to the same genetic sect!

Yes, we do have external racial types, that are based on the climatological differences of where exactly they settled.

Our ancestors migrated to the different continents and their bodies adapted!

Is it not so simple to see, that Africa is hot with a burning sun, therefore dark skin and curly hair!

But, in colder Europe, the lack of vitamin Din the sun’s rays, led to lighter skin and longer hair!

Everywhere, the different external types, match the climate of their origin!

It is SO obvious to see,

no storybook fantasy.

Is believing in fact a sin?

Internally, we are all the same!

Funnily, even blood types match and cross the varied race types game!

We have made ‘outside’ differences on our own,

Not what proof of the ‘inside’ pudding has shown!

Cultures and religions especially!

Ask yourself again why there are so many different types of holy?

Which storybook fantasy is right though?

Because, between them there are massive differences you know!?

When will we ever see,

that we are all just ONE humanity?

A fathom of a species, that came quite late in Mother Earth’s history!

Yet we continue destroying Her, each other and ourselves, what a pity?

……………………..

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a celebrated event that brings together talented writers from around the world. This platform encourages participants to express their creativity and share their unique perspectives through poetry and prose. The competition highlights the power of the written word in exploring diverse themes and fostering a global community of artists and thinkers.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Shane Manilal for his thought-provoking poem "What a Pity?" featured in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. His work challenges us to reflect on the shared aspects of our humanity and the importance of embracing scientific realities. Thank you, Shane, for contributing your voice to this global conversation.

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.