II. DEAR EVERYONE, IT’S ALL MY FAULT - By Musanda Nene

Written By: Musanda Nene

Category: Short Story

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Musanda Nene presents a deeply introspective short story titled "II. DEAR EVERYONE, IT’S ALL MY FAULT" as part of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This narrative unfolds with raw emotion and introspection, offering readers a glimpse into the complexities of family dynamics and personal responsibility. The story embodies the spirit of the competition, highlighting the power of creative writing to explore and express profound human experiences.

About the Work

The short story by Musanda Nene delves into themes of familial conflict, personal guilt, and the longing for parental affection. Through vivid and poignant imagery, the narrative captures the turmoil of a young person grappling with a parent's alcoholism and the resultant emotional scars. The piece is marked by a candid and heartfelt tone, inviting readers to reflect on the intricacies of love, trust, and forgiveness.

II. DEAR EVERYONE, IT’S ALL MY FAULT

Original Submission by Musanda Nene

II. DEAR EVERYONE, IT’S ALL MY FAULT

I should have told someone what I suspected earlier. I don’t know why I didn’t – it was obvious.

It’s okay that you don’t answer my calls. You probably won’t even respond to this either. I don’t care. I never cared. You left me before I even understood how to tie my shoes, but really it’s fine – you weren’t planning on teaching me right? I should’ve listened to literally anyone. Who was I to desperately seek the loving you withheld? I was a dumb kid.

At my 13th birthday party, you promised you’d be better, “Sunny, just trust me we’ll get home”. “Trust me” rung through my head as I watched you finish an entire bottle of wine. “Trust me” flooded my head as I have to heave you out of the restaurant which was supposed to be somewhat meaningful. “Trust me” as you drunkenly open the passenger door in the uber I paid for. Why couldn’t you have been stronger? I could’ve died in an avoidable car crash with a random uber driver, my oblivious younger sister, and you. It was messy, ugly, disappointing. But you bought me ice cream. How do you explain to your little sister that mom tried to kill herself by accident? We got to the hotel, and you leave, again. Like nothing mattered, because when did we ever? Not when I was six, waiting innocently in my bedroom, not when you paid R6 000 on alcohol and definitely not when you tried to kiss away my aches with vomit-stained lips.

***

Casually playing terrible party games with my friends to cover for you – I didn’t want them to look down on you, I guess. I walked upstairs to get something random, something as unimportant as lotion. You’re shouting at my aunt. Did you know I was scared? “GET OUT OF MY ROOM! I DON’T WHO YOU! KNOW GET OUT!” She was trying to keep it together, for me, for you! She left. She just walked out, she was the bigger person, unlike… What should I have done? You called me to sit next to you. “Sunny, just home, we… trust me.” I can’t look at you. I won’t. I look at your other favourite son – we have something in common, we’re both empty now, the

only difference is he could incapacitate you. You tried to tell me your life story, but I didn’t hear it. I was pushing down and praying the words that would solidify my fears. But as slurred as they came you still said them.

“Sunny, I’m an alcoholic.”

But you were depressed.

But you just got divorced.

But you were receiving death threats from strangers.

But your mom just passed away.

But I needed you more. I’m sorry, I’m so sorry that I was selfish. I’m sorry that I wanted to have a mom.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, celebrates the art of storytelling and the diverse voices of writers worldwide. This esteemed event encourages participants to share their unique perspectives and creative talents through poetry and prose, fostering a global community united by the love of the written word.

Thank you, Musanda Nene, for sharing your evocative short story, "II. DEAR EVERYONE, IT’S ALL MY FAULT," with the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your narrative offers a powerful exploration of personal and familial challenges. We appreciate your contribution to the competition and the literary world.

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.