Where The Roots Dig Deep - By Rosie Lee

Written By: Rosie Lee

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Rosie Lee brings us an evocative piece titled "Where The Roots Dig Deep," a striking entry in the Poetry category of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This poem reflects on themes of heritage, identity, and belonging, capturing the reader's imagination with its rich imagery and poignant reflections. As participants from around the world share their creative expressions, Rosie's work stands out for its depth and emotional resonance.

About the Work

In "Where The Roots Dig Deep," Rosie Lee crafts a powerful narrative that weaves together personal and collective histories. The poem's mood is contemplative, as it explores the weight of ancestral stories and the quest for belonging. Through vivid imagery and a lyrical style, Rosie invites readers to reflect on the deep connections to our roots and the landscapes that shape our identities. The poem’s message resonates with universal themes of justice, memory, and the enduring spirit of humanity.

Where The Roots Dig Deep

Original Submission by Rosie Lee

Where The Roots Dig Deep

by Rosie Lee

I wish for a time when I can say

with a melancholy smile of “back in my day.”

I would speak of horrors long gone

talk of the storm before our dawn.

I wish that they’d refuse to believe

and can live with careless naïvety.

I would talk of wars and bloodshed

of ghosts that time set quietly to bed.

I wish for a moment that is yet to come

when justice is given and no need be won.

I would trace the roots without fear or disguise,

and speak of the journey with head lifted high.

We are the children that history has made,

stories faded and their debts unpaid.

My veins mirror mountains crowned with snow,

where ancient winds still softly blow.

We stand on mounds both old and steep,

as birds cry and mothers weep.

My tears are drawn from rivers wide,

where blood and wine sway side to side.

We fight the ocean that pulls us back,

the water which remembers every crack.

My hair was woven from the wildest grass,

where hill fields roll and storms breeze pass.

The dust of empires fill my bones,

as I sit upon the corpse of thrones.

I carry famine, floods, war, and fire,

tales and legends I once admired.

Their echoes linger, an age-old cry,

though I hold, is no longer mine.

And still I am asked from where I came,

as if this soil could not claim my name.

Though birthed beneath these same starry skies,

they search my face simply to justify.

My roots may run deep but so does theirs,

yet we tear out mine and lay them bare.

I pray for a day I struggle to recall,

these wounds, these questions, any at all.

I wish that once upon a future time,

I dare to call this Beautiful Country mine.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar celebrates the diverse voices in contemporary literature. This esteemed competition invites participants from around the globe to share their unique narratives through poetry, short stories, essays, and creative writing. It provides a platform for writers to showcase their talents and connect with a wider audience, fostering a vibrant community of creative expression.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Rosie Lee for sharing "Where The Roots Dig Deep" with us in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her evocative exploration of identity and heritage enriches the tapestry of this event. We look forward to seeing more of her compelling work in the future.

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.