If - By Sharon Dragon Rose (du Plessis)

Written By: Sharon Dragon Rose (du Plessis)

Category: Short Story

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Sharon Dragon Rose (du Plessis), writing under the name IF, presents "If," a compelling short story submission for the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Through this tale, the author takes us on a journey into the heart of the desert, exploring themes of survival, introspection, and the human spirit's resilience in the face of adversity. This narrative captures the profound reflections and realizations that can emerge when one is pushed to their limits.

About the Work

"If" delves deep into the psyche of a protagonist stranded in the harsh desert environment. The story vividly portrays the struggle between life and death, the yearning for freedom, and the transformative power of solitude. The imagery is stark and evocative, inviting readers to feel the scorching heat, the chilling nights, and the emotional turmoil of the character. The narrative style is introspective, weaving a tapestry of thoughts, regrets, and resolutions, ultimately highlighting the importance of self-discovery and gratitude.

IF

Original Submission by Sharon Dragon Rose (du Plessis)

If...

One of the points on my list of 33 things to do before I die, was sleeping in the desert for at least a night. Never, ever, in my wildest dreams, did I think it would happen this way...

***

It would soon be dark and I felt a shiver run down my body. Nights in the desert were cold, I've been told. The fingers of my right hand trapped between the bent steering wheel and the car door were turning blue. Not because of the imminent cold but owing to my obstructed circulation.

The first day of my long-awaited vacation.

It had been a long drive. My search for adventure took me off the national road onto a sandy two-track through the Namib desert, and thanks to many late nights and deadlines at work, I inevitably dozed off.

I was unlikely to be found behind this dune running parallel to the track. I am stuck! Literally! No cellphone reception as far as I can determine, using my left hand, awkwardly.

After trying every manoeuvre possible to free my hand, I gave up and surrendered to my situation. As soon as the sun set, the stillness of the night arrived with that icy black blanket, full of stars. Shivering now, each ripple tugging my hand painfully, I cursed my decision to put my jacket in the boot on my last stop. Time stretched endlessly. The agony of discomfort, cold and pain kept fellowship with me through this never-ending night. I dozed off just before dawn, only to be aroused by the screech of a vulture and the hot breath of this godforsaken desert. The orbit of the sun pierced for hours through the passenger sky-facing window. My boxed up car became a sauna to roast me, and a protective box away from the birds, now joining one by one the awaited feast, just outside my window. Their bickering and squawking added to the intolerable situation I found myself in.

By midday my lips were parched, my tongue swollen and my golf shirt and the leather seat wet with perspiration. I fell into a deep sleep only to be awoken to what seemed a few minutes. My arm felt numb, I had a parched throat and knew now I would be trapped for another night. I could not decide which was worst... The searing heat and thirst during the day, or the dead icy chill at night. Or... perhaps, knowing that I may not be found.

I was lost, and powerless.

A second day and night followed, tormenting my sense of reality... Was I hallucinating when I saw my mother peering through the window? Did she really say 'Jy moet jou baard skeer, dis te lank!” I remember her distaste for moustaches and beards...

I had to keep focus, pull myself together...

I switched my phone on, and I saw that there was still no signal, the battery had one bar left.

Activating the recorder, I spoke in a cracked whisper the following to stay sane.

“If I do survive this hell hole...

I'm done living up to others' expectations. It's futile being someone else...”

Anger...good! Let it out.

Oh my soft heart with your vague boundaries...

“If I do come out of this alive...

I'll be bold and brave, giving, and in return... expecting respect.

If I do make it, I promise not to think about tomorrow or be distracted when enjoying a meal. I will have a glass of water next to my plate, take little sips with closed eyes, seeing the source of a fountain where clear streams run. I will taste every morsel of food lovingly prepared, the sweet, the peppery, the sour, the savoury, yes, even the bitter I'll imagine to taste sweet.

If I am granted the gift of life I'll greet every day with the song of gratitude. Every night before I close my eyes I will utter the day's taken-for-granted miracles, and with so much sincerity that a simple thank you will be enough to cover aeons of wonder-works by Divine Hands.

If I live another day, rescued from this friggen furnace freezer, I will create a purpose to live. I realise that my talents can be used as service, and so that will be my purpose.

I will make time to spend with all of you that so love me.”

At this stage the blackness engulfed me in waves...

“If I see tomorrow... if...

…....if...”

747 Words, Title Excluded

Written by Sharon DragonRose,

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform celebrating literary talent from around the world. It encourages writers to showcase their creativity and storytelling prowess, offering a unique opportunity to share their voice and perspective. This competition continues to inspire, connect, and elevate writers, providing a stage for diverse narratives and artistic expressions.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Sharon Dragon Rose (du Plessis) for sharing "If" with us. Your participation in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 enriches the literary landscape with your unique voice and perspective. We appreciate your contribution and look forward to more of your creative endeavors in the future.

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.