You're Gone - By Vanessa McLaren

Written By: Vanessa McLaren

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Vanessa McLaren presents her touching poem "You're Gone," a deeply emotional entry in the Poetry category of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Through her evocative verses, she explores themes of loss, acceptance, and the enduring bond of memories. McLaren's work resonates with readers, offering solace and understanding in the face of life's inevitable partings.

About the Work

"You're Gone" is a poignant exploration of the journey through grief and the slow acceptance of loss. McLaren weaves a narrative of profound love and devotion, capturing the raw emotions of witnessing a loved one's departure and the subsequent struggle to find peace. Her use of vivid imagery and heartfelt expression provides a powerful reflection on the human experience of mourning and healing.

You're gone

Original Submission by Vanessa McLaren

YOU’RE GONE

Welcome home, I say with a smile,

thank you you say, your manners gentile.

We both know that you came home to die,

that your demise is imminent, and I want to cry.

The doctors say there’s no further hope,

and I have to face your health on it’s downslope.

We were told your cancer just cannot be healed,

and my prayers to God become my daily shield.

I rub your ice cold hands with some lotion,

from the Bible I read you passages of devotion.

I clothe you and feed you with loving care,

and your moments of lucidity, so very rare.

You’re gone, God fetched you earlier today,

to heaven you’ve gone, and again I pray.

My eyes feel glassy and my heart aches,

thinking of life without you, make me shake.

It’s been months now that we’ve been apart,

my memories will always link our hearts.

But I’ve now accepted that life does go on,

my soul has accepted the truth – you’re gone.

The feeling of loss don’t really go away,

we just learn to manage it in our own way.

For a period of time our feelings just freeze,

until the pain recede and our grief flees.

© Vanessa McLaren South Africa

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, celebrates the art of written expression. It invites participants from around the world to share their stories, poems, and essays, fostering a community of creative exchange and appreciation. This prestigious platform highlights diverse voices and offers an opportunity for writers to showcase their talent on a global stage.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Vanessa McLaren for sharing her moving poem "You're Gone" with us in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her work offers a compassionate glimpse into the process of healing after loss, reminding us of the enduring power of love and memory. Thank you, Vanessa, for your beautiful contribution.

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.