Before and After Darkness - By Losini Kruthika Harini

Written By: Losini Kruthika Harini

Category: Short Story

Competition: Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the realm of thought-provoking narratives, Losini Kruthika Harini presents her short story, "Before and After Darkness," for Hashtag Kalakar's Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This entry stands out for its introspective theme and unique exploration of the subconscious. As the protagonist navigates through a world that suddenly plunges into darkness, the story invites readers to ponder the mysteries of intuition and the inner self.

About the Work

"Before and After Darkness" weaves a narrative that delves into themes of self-discovery and existential curiosity. With a style marked by vivid imagery and introspective introspection, the story captures a surreal moment when time seems to stand still, offering a glimpse into the protagonist's inner world. The mood shifts from confusion to a profound sense of peace, leaving readers to reflect on the enigmatic nature of existence.

Before and After Darkness

Original Submission by Losini Kruthika Harini

Before and After Darkness

It was a busy morning where everyone was rushing to work except her. She was also going somewhere but not to work. She couldn’t remember why she left the office soon and why she feels the urgency to be in home. It has been a year she went to her home as it is far away from her working city. Something felt weird, people place scenery everything look out of place. Noticed everyone including her wore almost same-coloured clothes mostly beige. Was it always like this or her brain noticed it just now.

She was fighting against her thoughts and feelings. Something that kept pointing her the monotonous predictable patterns. This is not normal for her she is a person to get immersed in her errands and almost zoned out and detached. Was her intuition warning something? But no there is nothing dangerous. Dismissed her thoughts stating maybe she is in stress or depression.

She can feel and see people in the streets kind of going and coming back and for in a fast-tracked manner. Finally, she gathered her thoughts paced herself as she supposed to cross streets. That is the moment exactly darkness surrounded, Sky became absolute dark, without a Tinch of light. People panicked tried to grab their phones, but it glitched and went out. So does the billboards.

She was also shocked to the core but unlike other people she was not shouting for some reason. That’s when someone whispered her some three words which she hasn’t even heard before. And then sky went back to normal, light entered again. Phones, billboards were working as before. Everyone was confused. All these happened in a split second. Some were just standing there dumbfounded and others were carrying on with their routines.

She kept thinking about what just happened and strangely she liked that peace that came as a form of darkness where everything is standing still for a moment.

No, it is not just feeling a relief that nothing ever was in control but felt that it is universe’s way of winking and telling her to chill! Smiling she thought to herself what if the words whispered to her were actually code words to enter her original home which she doesn’t remember at all.

And all this happened to made her sense that her homesickness she had all along was not even for her earth home.

But this time she has no desperation and feels some burden lifted. She believes she will be in right place at right time. She didn’t know what was real anymore. But she was late for the train. And she had to go. Good luck with life on earth until then.

About the Competition

The Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a celebration of literary creativity and talent. It provides a platform for writers to showcase their work, sharing unique stories and poems with a global audience. The competition encourages participants to push the boundaries of their imagination and contribute to the rich tapestry of contemporary literature.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Losini Kruthika Harini for sharing her captivating story, "Before and After Darkness," with us in the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her contribution enriches the literary landscape, inviting readers to explore the depths of imagination and introspection. We wish her the best in her creative journey.

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.