What’s In - By Abbi-Gail McKenzie

Written By: Abbi-Gail McKenzie

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, Abbi-Gail McKenzie presents an evocative piece titled "What’s In." Representing the Poetry category, this work delves into the complexities of societal beauty standards and the struggle for self-acceptance. McKenzie's poignant verses invite readers to reflect on the pressures of conforming to societal ideals and the emotional toll it can take. Her submission is a powerful exploration of identity, culture, and the often-overlooked inner battles faced by many.

About the Work

"What’s In" by Abbi-Gail McKenzie explores the tension between self-confidence and societal expectations. With a blend of vivid imagery and candid expression, the poem confronts the pervasive influence of beauty trends and the desire for acceptance. McKenzie's work is a heartfelt commentary on the cultural pressures to conform, challenging readers to consider the impact on mental health and identity. The poem's introspective tone and sharp observations prompt a deeper understanding of the struggle for self-love in a world dominated by external validation.

What’s In

Original Submission by Abbi-Gail McKenzie

What’s In

I'd like to think of myself as the standard; the ideal,

I mean, one could stay from a far and just say “wow she looks unreal”

The coils of my hair and the melanin in my tone keep me glowing from my crown to my heels

You may call it arrogance, but I call it confidence. I think the difference is in how it makes you feel.

And the feeling was bold, until someone asked me, “Girl, where have you been?”

I mean, type four hair is nice and all but that’s not the trend that is in…

Curly hair gives you a nicer look and people like girls with even lighter skin.

I mean fine I guess I'll just keep my hair in braids since I don't think I can change its texture

And I won’t even ask my mom for her bleaching cream again before she gets started on another lecture

“You’re brown enough. Be satisfied” while her skin gets lighter by the hour

But you know the Instagram girls they get to be satisfied because their looks, they give them power.

Like, the new norm is thick brows. And the hips? They like them curvy

Even though I know most of the Insta girls got their big hips from surgery

And the brows will be so hard to regrow since thin brows have been trending since eternity!

But my curves, they lack, and I want my eyebrows back. And if lighter skin is the trend that’s in then who am I to remain black?

I mean that’s what the standard is right? Something we should all be aspiring to reach?

And everybody wants it, whether they admit it or not. Or at least what they teach…

But these scars on my skin? No, they definitely have to go. They’re just not gonna work with the bleach

And while I’m at it, I’ve got to get braces: If not for my smile, for my speech.

You know, there was a saying that my grandma has that “anything black nuh good”

And to be honest I hear a lot of Caribbean people say it, probably more often than they should

But through my own research I’ve found the results to have been tried and proven and shown

That the lighter the skin, the higher the salary… but is that something that we want to condone?

But I don’t like my skin anymore, I'd be much happier if I went up a few tones.

And I need to hurry up and gain more weight: the trend has long moved on from skin and bones

But there’s this girl that was next to my grandma’s house that the older folks used to praise

And I didn’t even know my skin was that dark till they showed me the standard had raised…

But look at her, she’s so perfect with her button nose and slim figure

And all the boys chase after her, I thought they wanted someone thicker…

But now my big nose feels bigger;

But maybe if I get a rhinoplasty all the boys will look at me even quicker!

Yes, I must be able to convince my mom to get it. After all, it's the 5th most common cosmetic procedure

Even though she said no to the chemical peel and wouldn’t let me get implants either

But that’s what everybody wants! That's what they said I should look like.

But no matter how much I change there’s always something with my body I just don’t feel is right

I’ve been thick, I’ve been thin; I’ve darkened and lightened my skin,

And I still don’t meet their expectations. I just hate the body I'm in…!

Or maybe, it’s this mental disorder affecting every 1 in 50 women.

And men alike, though their emotions may not show, the stakes are just as high

Because more severe cases have been found to be men, 80%, who contemplated suicide

…

Now the scars upon your skin

And whatever beauty trend may be in

Pale in comparison to the scarring that’s occurring from within.

And these trends across the globe

Being propagated by young and old

Lead to the darkening of the mind, the heavying of the heart, and the corruption of one’s soul

* Abbi-Gail McKenzie - November 2024

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar celebrates diverse voices and creative expressions from around the world. This prestigious platform offers poets and writers the opportunity to showcase their talents, share their stories, and engage with a global audience. With a focus on innovation and originality, the competition encourages participants to push the boundaries of their craft and contribute to the vibrant landscape of contemporary literature.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Abbi-Gail McKenzie for her compelling submission, "What’s In," to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her exploration of beauty standards and self-image resonates with readers, prompting reflection and dialogue. We look forward to witnessing more of her powerful voice in the literary world.

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.