Darkhouse - By Nikiwe Beauchamp

Written By: Nikiwe Beauchamp

Category: Flash Fiction

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the evocative flash fiction piece "Darkhouse," Nikiwe Beauchamp, writing under the name Darkhouse, crafts a haunting narrative set in a small fishing town. Submitted to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, this work explores themes of mystery and tradition. The story unfolds around a tall lighthouse in Hillcrest Cove, weaving suspense and intrigue into its fabric. Nikiwe's style captivates readers, making this a memorable contribution to the competition.

About the Work

"Darkhouse" captures a mysterious and eerie atmosphere, drawing readers into the enigmatic aura surrounding Hillcrest Cove's lighthouse. The narrative is steeped in suspense, with vivid imagery of the imposing lighthouse and the watchman, Alistair, adding depth to the story. The piece explores themes of tradition and community, leaving a lingering sense of unease as the townspeople vanish without a trace. Nikiwe's skillful storytelling keeps readers engrossed from start to finish.

Darkhouse

Original Submission by Nikiwe Beauchamp

Darkhouse

In a small fishing town called Hillcrest Cove on an island in the Atlantic there was a tall, great lighthouse. Tall, imposing, weather damaged yet unyielding. It was a popular tourist attraction though no one was allowed to go inside. Any and all who tried were immediately driven away by the old lighthouse watchman, Alistair. A short and portly, decrepit old man with a terrible slouch, and a bitter scowl. He hated tourists and pretty much anyone who would encroach too close to where he worked.

“Without me to light this thing every night, this town wouldn’t stand a chance. This lighthouse is special!” He’d declare to anyone trying to question him. Everyone thought he was crazy and let him be.

If only they had listened.

For what he said was true, since the lighthouse’s construction one hundred and nine years ago, not a single night had passed without it being lit. Before a watchman of the lighthouse could retire, a new one would be chosen and trained. What that training entailed, no one in Hillcrest Cove knew. The people grew accustomed to seeing a new face at the lighthouse every decade or so. That had been the town’s tradition all this time. However, as the world modernised and most other lighthouses became automated, the town stopped practising the tradition. Alistair was the last of his kind. The only person in the town who knew the ins and outs of the lighthouse.

Around sunset one Saturday evening, the usually uninterested people of the town were surprised to see that the lighthouse wasn’t switched on yet. Alistair was always on time, he’d never turned it on a second later than necessary in the thirty years he’d operated it. Curious and intrigued by this rare event, a few townsfolk waited at the base of the lighthouse and watched the structure, hoping it would turn on soon.

Seconds turned to minutes and minutes turned into an hour. More and more time passed, but still nothing. One of the men, the owner of the Bakery on fourth street, risked crossing the threshold and went inside the lighthouse.

He never came back out.

Another person went in to look for the bakery owner, he too never came back out.

Deciding that it was too dangerous to go inside the lighthouse, the small group of residents waited outside. Soon enough it was midnight and still nothing. Those who had families to go home to left, while a few stayed. Neither the wind nor sea spray deterred them, the group of locals waited and waited. Past three a.m. and a young man had fallen over, exhausted from standing too long, a woman sat on the ground because of hunger, the last time she’d eaten was lunch the previous day.

And then something curious happened. At exactly half past three in the morning, the entire town of Hillcrest Cove had shown up to the lighthouse: parents along with their children, grandparents, singles, young couples and old. Dressed in sleepwear and daywear alike, the whole town stood before the white and red lighthouse, entranced by it.

Just after five a.m. however, when the sun started to rise, the lighthouse, coated in seaspray, glistened in the early morning sun, standing solitary in the town with no one to gaze upon it anymore.

Everyone who’d come out to see it a few hours ago was no more. Parents along with their children, grandparents, singles, young couples and old. Dressed in sleepwear and daywear alike:

The residents of Hillcrest Cove disappeared before the first rays of the sun touched the ground.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar invites writers worldwide to showcase their literary talents. This prestigious event celebrates creativity in various forms, including poetry, flash fiction, and essays. Participants have the opportunity to share their unique voices on an international platform, connecting with a community of fellow writers and enthusiasts. The competition highlights diverse storytelling and imaginative expression.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Nikiwe Beauchamp for sharing "Darkhouse" with us. Your participation in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 enriches the literary tapestry of this event. We appreciate your contribution and look forward to seeing more of your creative endeavors.

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.