What Season Is This - By Nicole Rodrigues Bothma

Written By: Nicole Rodrigues Bothma

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Nicole Rodrigues Bothma invites readers on an emotional journey with her poem "What Season Is This," a heartfelt entry in the Poetry category of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. In her work, Nicole explores the cyclical nature of emotions and relationships, drawing on the metaphor of changing seasons to convey feelings of loss and the longing for renewal. Her poignant verses capture the universal struggle of enduring difficult times while yearning for brighter days.

About the Work

"What Season Is This" is a reflective piece that delves into themes of emotional turmoil and the passage of time. Nicole's use of vivid imagery and rhythmic cadence paints a stark picture of desolation contrasted with a yearning for hope and reconciliation. The poem's evocative language and introspective tone invite readers to ponder their own experiences with change and the healing power of forgiveness.

What Season Is This

Original Submission by Nicole Rodrigues Bothma

Nicole Rodrigues Bothma

Entry 7

What season is this?

So many days approaching

That make me think of you

I can’t ignore the agonizing reality

That we are truly through

I pray that this is just a season

That summer will find us soon

That we’ll let bygones be just that

And allow forgiveness to have its room

I wonder what season this is

Does it have a name and end

It’s far too dark and cold

It feels like the sun will never rise again

Does this season cut you deep?

Do you feel the hollowness in your bones?

Does it snatch you breath and beat you down

And remind you that you are all alone

Does this season make you weary?

Does it weigh you down a ton?

Does it break your spirit, steal your pride

And remind you that,”it’s only just begun”

Does this season make you cry?

Does is flood your life with tears

Does it make you pray with desperation?

Like you haven’t done in years

Tell me what season this is

How much longer will this endure?

Because I’m losing hope and losing faith

And soon the battle will be lost, I’m sure

What season is this?

And please dear God let it end

Let’s leave this hurt behind us

Please, let summer come our way again

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar showcases an impressive array of voices from around the world, offering poets and writers a platform to share their creative expressions. This esteemed competition celebrates the diversity of thought and the power of storytelling, encouraging participants to explore various themes and narratives through their unique perspectives.

We extend our gratitude to Nicole Rodrigues Bothma for her poignant contribution to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 with her poem "What Season Is This." Her exploration of the seasons of the heart resonates deeply, and we are honored to feature her work. Thank you, Nicole, for sharing your voice and enriching the competition with your evocative poetry.

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.