They said, “You’re too young,
too raw, too unsure to write like Shakespeare.”
“First things first,” they said,
but what is first when the words are already here?
I wanted to write, so I write now—
flawed, unfinished, but unstoppable.
My words don’t flow perfectly,
they stumble and scratch at the page.
There’s no applause, no trophies waiting,
but I write anyway,
because something inside refuses to stay still.
I’m shy, hesitant when I speak,
my voice shrinking in the shadow of others.
So I write to speak louder,
to make sure I’m not two times dumb—
silenced in the room, and erased from thought.
They don’t see me win the Nobel,
I don’t see myself either,
and I don’t seek their vision.
I write not to win, but to exist,
to leave something behind
that whispers, “I was here.”
It’s not about approval or fame.
It’s about the words that refuse to be ignored,
the need to create something that can stand
even when I fall.
Laugh if you will, doubt if you must,
but I’ll keep writing.
Because in every line,
I find the truest version of myself.
Moseka Ole Ntiyia is a proud Maasai, a patriotic Kenyan, and a true Pan-Africanist with a global outlook. A passionate writer and poet, his work beautifully weaves together themes of humanness, justice, and African identity, capturing the rich and complex realities of life in a developing world. Deeply rooted in authenticity—whether in faith, knowledge, or connections—Moseka finds inspiration in the rhythm of nature, often while herding his cherished cows, Noo Pukoret (those worth going hungry for) and Sujarot (those worth chasing as long as they find water and pasture), a reflection of the deep love his people have for their livestock. His writing has graced the pages of Isele Magazine, with forthcoming features in The Arc Poetry and Viridine Literary. With a degree in Political Science and International Relations from the University of Nairobi, Moseka continues to reach new heights, using his craft to inspire, challenge, and connect with audiences worldwide—one powerful story at a time.