I. THE FEELING YOU GET WHEN YOU’RE ABOUT TO CRY - By Musanda Nene

Written By: Musanda Nene

Category: Short Story

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the poignant short story "I. THE FEELING YOU GET WHEN YOU’RE ABOUT TO CRY," Musanda Nene confronts the raw emotions of pain and defiance. As a participant in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, Musanda brings to light the universal experience of facing one's fears and the internal struggle that accompanies it. This narrative captures the essence of emotional turmoil, making it a striking entry in this year's competition.

About the Work

Musanda Nene's story delves into the intricate dynamics of family relationships and personal resilience. The narrative is charged with intense emotions, offering a vivid portrayal of vulnerability and strength. Through evocative imagery and a compelling narrative style, the story paints a picture of a protagonist caught between fear and courage, ultimately finding liberation in expression.

I. THE FEELING YOU GET WHEN YOU’RE ABOUT TO CRY

Original Submission by Musanda Nene

I. THE FEELING YOU GET WHEN YOU’RE ABOUT TO CRY

I hate that feeling. Y’know, like that feeling; your throat closes up, it feels like there are 15kg dumbbells in each of your pockets and worst of all — quite literally torture — your eyes. Your vision goes blurry and suddenly there’s a mind-numbing pain you have to face. It’s about to happen — you’re about to do it, and there’s nothing you can do to stop it.

“Stop it! Stop that!” His finger is in my face again, antagonising me for a crime I didn’t know I’d committed. I knew how strong my dad was and, more importantly, I knew not to test him. “You’re already one of them, a

fucking fag.” I’d been in this position before so I became diligently trained: Insult, aggression, apology, silent treatment. That was just the way it went. Though the one part I could never get right was painfully obvious. He stared at me, tore into my soul, picking apart my presence, my pink and glossy eyes. There it was again. He inched closer towards me, tension and suspense amalgamating. The barrier between how I felt emotionally and how I appeared was clear. Fixed. ‘Conceal, don’t feel’ was my proud proverb. The barrier was there for a reason.

The barrier was loosening. They were coming. The floodgates were near bursting. They came quicker. I thought about my friends — I never got the feeling around them. I thought about my mom — she always tried to make the feeling go away. Finally I thought about my dad — his iron fist and tongue sharpened to a point — who ruled our house.

The first one fell. Then the second. Then all at once my plan crumbled. I was a mess of snot and tears. My tear ducts had finally failed me. Between hopeless sobs I felt it. A sharp, familiar pain. It struck my nose before I realised and soon snot wasn’t the only thing dripping from my nose. As the crimson fell to the ground, so did I. A kick, then a punch, then a slur all mixed into this disgusting concoction. My childhood bedroom felt like a bystander, judging me as I curled into a foetal position.

I did it, I finally did it. With only the comfort of shattered bones and torn clothing I realised that I’d defied my dad for the first time. It was almost like that feeling y’know? Except this time it was different. It was an action.

I cried.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar celebrates creativity and literary expression across the globe. This prestigious competition invites writers and poets to showcase their talents, offering a platform to share diverse voices and stories. It stands as a testament to the power of the written word in connecting and inspiring people worldwide.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Musanda Nene for sharing "I. THE FEELING YOU GET WHEN YOU’RE ABOUT TO CRY" with us in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your contribution highlights the profound impact of storytelling in exploring complex emotions and human experiences. We appreciate your participation and look forward to more of your inspiring work.

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.