Your Virtue, My Vice - By Priyanka Das

Written By: Priyanka Das

Category: Poetry

Competition: Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Priyanka Das presents a poignant piece titled "Your Virtue, My Vice," a remarkable entry in the Poetry category of the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This poem delves into the complex interplay between virtue and vice, challenging conventional moral dichotomies. Das’s work invites readers to explore themes of moral ambiguity and inner conflict, offering a reflective glimpse into human nature.

About the Work

"Your Virtue, My Vice" explores the nuanced relationship between perceived goodness and inherent flaws. Priyanka Das uses vivid imagery and a contemplative tone to contrast the serene appearance of virtue with the raw authenticity of vice. The poem questions societal norms and embraces the imperfections that define our humanity. Through powerful metaphors and striking contrasts, it encourages a deeper understanding of self and morality.

Your Virtue My Vice

Original Submission by Priyanka Das

Your Virtue, My Vice

Your virtue keeps its hands so clean,

not because it never sinned,

but because it knows the basin,

the towel, the prayer, the wind.

My vice arrives with ink stained nails,

with torn sleeves, throat, and skin;

it does not enter like a saint,

it brings the weather in.

Your virtue calls the cage a cure,

then paints the iron white;

my vice still names the trapped thing bird,

and lets it wound the night.

Your virtue moves the bruise aside,

behind a polished vase;

my vice drags all the furniture

until the wound uncovers the face.

Do not call me bitter

for refusing holy lies;

some knives do impart forgiveness

when they learn not to close their eyes.

I have seen your gentle goodness

turn silence into law;

seen mercy used like velvet

over someone's broken jaw.

So no, this is not a plea for mercy,

not to kneel, not a mere ordeal;

this is a wiser battle

with the truth undressed to heal.

________________

Let virtue open cupboards.

Let vice wash off its rage.

Let every saint and sinner

stand naked on one page.

If your virtue needs a mask

to keep its halo bright,

I will keep the vice that trembles

when a wound is called polite.

I do not want your heaven

if it asks me not to feel;

I do not want your darkness

if it makes my hunger kneel.

I am not God, not demon,

not marble, myth, or knife;

I am the bleeding middle:

mud, memory, pulse, and life.

I will not bleach my animal

to earn your borrowed light;

I am no God, no devil,

only flesh with human might.

If virtue needs my silence

just to keep its chapel clean,

then my vice is the witness

bleeding through what is

and what has been.

About the Competition

The Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform celebrating the art of words. It gathers diverse voices from across the globe, showcasing creativity and thought-provoking narratives in poetry and creative writing. Participants share their unique perspectives and contribute to the rich tapestry of contemporary literature.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Priyanka Das for sharing "Your Virtue, My Vice" with us. Her contribution to the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 enriches our understanding of the delicate balance between virtue and vice. We appreciate her participation and look forward to more of her insightful work.

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.