Why she pawned Pandora’s box - By Merrin George

Written By: Merrin George

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, Merrin George presents "Why she pawned Pandora’s box," a profound poetic exploration of self-reflection and the struggle between despair and hope. This poignant piece delves into the complexities of self-worth and survival, capturing a narrative that resonates deeply with readers. Through George's eyes, we are invited to witness a journey of introspection and the stark reality of life's challenges.

About the Work

Merrin George's "Why she pawned Pandora’s box" uses vivid imagery and emotive language to explore themes of self-loathing, survival, and the desperate search for belonging. The poem conveys a haunting narrative filled with stark contrasts between despair and fleeting hope. Through evocative symbolism and raw emotion, George captures the profound struggle of a soul searching for solace in a world that often turns a blind eye.

Why she pawned Pandora’s box

Original Submission by Merrin George

Why she pawned Pandora’s box

by Merrin George

[tw: self-harm, suicide]

She saw herself in her mirror,

Wiped the fog away so it was clearer.

Her cheekbones, her lashes, her lips so cherry, Anybody else, they would have been merry.

But she loathed who looked back at her, And everything beneath the exterior.

Raised that blade yet again,

Greeted every scar she knew by name.

She had once dreamt of an infinity beyond, A life where she finally belonged.

A world she believed would forever carry on, But then that fateful morning dawned.

Her heart pierced by the cannon's dreadful shout, Her family and her home, gone without doubt.

And out on the streets she was cast,

Where survival was all that would last.

A little bird, with battered wings and starving, Not knowing if help would ever be arriving.

Yet the nights grew colder evermore,

And every knock became another closed door.

All one could do was fight to survive,

Somewhere between living and merely alive.

And so her curves, her legs, her lips so cherry, She pawned to a man to make him merry.

The salt seasoned her face as she cried, Waiting for the man to leave her side.

Her body one place, her mind another, With every blink, reality losing color.

The loud silence a hollow disguise,

As her soul stared from behind empty eyes.

What a cruel joy it was to finally eat,

While her dreams lay shattered at her feet.

Upon the cracks in the ceiling above,

Shadows now creatures that offered her love.

A butterfly, a bird, a stranger in the light,

Her only companions through the endless night.

They stoked the flicker of hope she held inside,

A little flame that refused to leave her side.

They whispered she was wanted by a world passing by,

But no one stayed enough to ask her—why?

All the stares, the remarks, the harsh judgment,

All without knowing it may be too late for an amendment.

Clasping her hands, she looked up to the sky,

Echoes of silence from heavens that passed her by.

Death, hadn’t she heard, was to rest in peace?

Though no one to rest her urn on their mantelpiece.

And so her Pandora’s box she pawned,

A blade in return for hope now mourned.

Saw herself in it as she held it up high,

There was but a whisper of a sigh.

Leaving behind all that she never got to say,

One among the countless souls that lost their way.

The mirror carried her reflection long after she faded away,

And whoever dared to look within would see the world that looked away. _________________________________________________________________________

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform for writers worldwide to share their voices and stories. This event celebrates the art of poetry and creative writing, offering participants an opportunity to showcase their talents and connect with a global audience. It is a celebration of literary creativity and expression, fostering a community of passionate writers.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Merrin George for sharing "Why she pawned Pandora’s box" with us in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your evocative words have left a lasting impression, and we appreciate your courage in exploring such profound themes. Thank you for contributing to this year's competition with your unique voice and perspective.

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.