Dear Bob - By DaniElle Pervan-Reid

Written By: DaniElle Pervan-Reid

Category: Flash Fiction

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

DaniElle Pervan-Reid presents "Dear Bob," a captivating piece of flash fiction that offers readers a playful and imaginative dive into the feline mindset. This creative work is part of the esteemed Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Through witty narrative and clever storytelling, DaniElle invites us to explore the whimsical and often humorous dynamics between a pet and its owner, captured with a keen sense of observation and humor.

About the Work

"Dear Bob" is a delightful exploration of a cat's perspective, filled with humor and a touch of sarcasm. The narrative delves into the everyday grievances and amusing observations of a cat, addressing its human, "Bob." With vivid imagery and a playful tone, DaniElle Pervan-Reid crafts a story that highlights the often-overlooked nuances of the pet-owner relationship, all while reflecting the majestic lineage of feline history and its modern-day compromises.

Dear Bob

Original Submission by DaniElle Pervan-Reid

Dear Bob,

I know you’re probably not called that. I love the sound of it, I think it suits you. Even though you’re probably called something else. I’m going to call you Bob anyway. After so many nicknames you have planted on me, I’m stuck in it like bugs clung to spiderwebs. I watch them from behind the big invisible door. I can see through it but I can’t move through it.

That’s one of the things I wonder about, how it works. I don’t have one name, you give me so many I can’t just juggle the three anymore. It’s like juggling apples while somebody throws tennis balls at you. I am not a dog so I will not continue to go along with your rouse. If you wanted me to be able to remember all your titles I would expect you to at least give me the luxury of having some treats. Lots of treats. As you give me titles I wanted to give you one.

I have something to address to you, I don’t like it when you cradle me in your arms. I don’t just like it, I despise it. I am not a little wailing creature that is a smaller version of you, a helpless form of you. I do not unleash my claws. I do not lay a paw on you. I resist the urge to fight you while I’m held against your body. I am meant to be strolling on the floor not pinned to your chest. I see it in your eyes the water gathers under the folds of your eye skin. I hate seeing you sad when I wrestle myself out of your hold. So half the time I stay deadly still as the mouse I just caught, so I feel warmth off your body instead of the cold you project when you’re sad.

Another thing I do not appreciate is when I tell you I am starving. You make a horrific sound that is nothing like the beautiful meow I illustrated. I am embarrassed for you. Then you continue like you are mocking me. What’s up with that Bob? Am I a joke to you?!

Honestly don’t play with me like that, I only like when you get the long fluffy tail on the rod out- I love chasing that. That is the only acceptable game you can play with me.

My mother’s mother’s mother and a lot more mothers used to be royalty in Egypt. We were looked after as the Gods we were. We were loved and honoured. We were higher than Kings and Queens. Look where we’re now. We do our business in stinky litter. I know Litter! At least you have to clean up after me with a poop scooper. If that isn’t bad there’s something even worse you leave me with the annoying orange filth every single day. He’s bigger than me but much stupider. He can’t even cover his business in the litter tray. He is the worst! And now we’re kept inside the house not allowed to roam freely. We used to be Gods now we are pets. How despicable! I am now bound to you for however long I am until one day I slip out the door. Do I even want to leave? I’m conflicted, you're not horrible Bob. I used to be at the top of the Pyramid, now I try to find the highest platform so I can replicate the feeling.

Here is my list of demands, I’ll let you snuggle into your couch cushion first.

One: Don’t touch me with cold or wet hands. It does not feel nice and yes I do shake it off my fur. I am not apologising for the appropriate reaction.

Two: When I’ve had enough of the orange filth don’t tell me off for whacking him softly. Because it was very soft, I barely touched him with my paw. He deserved it.

Three: Don’t take the little strips of fun off me, you keep telling me I can’t play with plastic. Why not?! I barely have 2 seconds with it before you snatch it up and I never see it ever again. Where did it go?

Dearest Bob I know you are 6 ft in the air and my belly almost scrapes the floor. I hope after reading this we can see eye to eye.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar celebrates the rich tapestry of literary arts. It provides a platform for writers worldwide to showcase their talents in various genres, including poetry, flash fiction, and essays. This competition is a beacon for emerging and established writers to share their unique voices and stories with a global audience, fostering a community of creative expression and literary excellence.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to DaniElle Pervan-Reid for sharing "Dear Bob" with us as part of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your engaging portrayal of the feline experience brings a refreshing perspective to flash fiction. 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.