60, 70, 80... - By Musanda Nene

Written By: Musanda Nene

Category: Short story

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the compelling short story "60, 70, 80..." by Musanda Nene, we delve into a profoundly personal narrative that captures the complexities of identity and self-acceptance. Submitted to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, this piece stands out in the short story category for its raw depiction of familial expectations and personal struggles. With its introspective theme, Nene offers readers an unfiltered glimpse into the protagonist's journey, marked by societal pressures and personal revelation.

About the Work

Musanda Nene's "60, 70, 80..." is a poignant exploration of the internal battles waged in the face of external judgment. The narrative unfolds with a somber, reflective tone, enriched by vivid imagery that brings the protagonist's struggles to life. Through a skillful use of language, Nene captures the emotional weight of seeking validation and the harsh reality of living under the shadow of perfection. The story's powerful message resonates deeply, urging readers to reflect on the impact of societal norms on personal well-being.

Short story

Original Submission by Musanda Nene

III. 60, 70, 80…

I always took as much as I could. The free bread you’d get served as a starter, the leftovers my friend brought to tea, the near empty bag of chips no one wanted. I desperately didn’t want to reveal myself.

At home it was the worst. The warden of the house forbade the consumption of anything that wasn’t fruit or veg. As a self-absorbed star athlete having an obese eleven-year-old broke him. Every rise of the scale chipped away at his image. If he could prove to every inspecting eye that he was a decent father,

he was, right? To the people it mattered to being a rigid, unregistered dietician was okay.

My childhood bedroom, the one safe haven I fully owned, stored all my deepest, filthiest secrets. The same secrets that classified me as a gluttonous swine, disgracing a family of six-packs and protein shakes. My sweet escapes hid under my pillow, in between shelves; anywhere a chocolate bar could fit.

It wasn’t the beatings that hurt though. It wasn’t the starving myself, praying to any god that would listen that my weight would start with a five, that hurt either. It wasn’t even all my distant relatives whispering blatantly, “how does

his dad deal with this fatty?” with genuine concern. No, above everything fathomable, it was the denial.

I wasn’t his. He would claim me in public but it was accompanied with that slight headshake he would do when someone said they could see the resemblance between us. No son of my father’s could possibly weigh 60, 70 or, god forbid, 80 kg.

…

Years later, I stood in my bathroom. It was sterile white – like the type of place where final goodbyes escaped lips. My stomach looked flat enough and the stretch marks carved in my waist and thighs reminded me of paediatrician visits when I could barely cover the bit of my stomach that stuck out when I wore my school uniform.

My cheeks were more hollow now from all the times I’d sucked them in for pictures and I’d upgraded from a double chin to a jawline. My fingers traced my Adam’s apple but I flinched as neared my mouth. The rosy pink had long

left my lips as mirrors and I had become distant. I stared at my sickly slim looking self seconds before my head slammed against the ceramic sink.

I’d grown to hate eating but the whole bottle of Phentermine pills would be the last full meal I ate.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, celebrates the diversity and richness of the literary arts. This prestigious event invites writers and poets from around the world to share their unique voices and perspectives. With a focus on fostering creativity and cultural exchange, the competition serves as a platform for emerging and established writers to gain recognition and connect with a global audience.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Musanda Nene for sharing the evocative short story "60, 70, 80..." in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Through this powerful narrative, Nene invites us to ponder the complexities of identity and the courage required to confront personal truths. We appreciate the contribution and look forward to future works by this talented writer.

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.