Left Behind - By Tiana Forbes

Written By: Tiana Forbes

Category: Flash Fiction

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the creative realm of Flash Fiction, Tiana Forbes presents "Left Behind," an evocative short story featured in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This piece, submitted under the category of Flash Fiction, delves into themes of abandonment and self-discovery, reflecting a poignant narrative through the eyes of an inanimate object. Tiana's contribution adds depth and introspection to the competition, inviting readers to ponder the life and purpose of overlooked objects.

About the Work

"Left Behind" invites readers into the inner world of an overlooked writing instrument, once cherished by its owner. The narrative weaves a tale of emotional introspection, highlighting themes of abandonment and the quest for self-worth. The story's mood is both melancholic and reflective, employing vivid imagery and a unique perspective to explore the pen's journey of finding new meaning. Its poignant message resonates with anyone who has felt forgotten or undervalued.

Left Behind

Original Submission by Tiana Forbes

Left Behind

I wake up in mid-air. I hear a loud thud as I hit a solid surface beneath me. Ouch. Now it's time for me to wait for my keeper to hold me in his arms and put me back in his warm and cozy pocket.

I lie there for what feels like an hour, the ground hard and cold. The ceiling white, occasionally blocked by a blur of passing pillars. My master is nowhere in sight.

I feel something brush against my slender exterior. It is only a piece of paper. I have spent my entire life partnering with many blank pages, creating memories and expressing love. Sacrificing the ink that runs through me and keeps me relevant.

The piece of paper rests by my side, as if trying to keep me warm. But it doesn't feel the same. Where is my master? This is not typical of him. He needs me, and I need him even more.

I am nothing without him. He made me do things I had never dreamed of. I was able to stand up while cradled in his warm left hand — it had a groove that I fit into perfectly. My fine point danced along the page to his heart's content and I wrote words I would not have known if it weren't for him. I remember the blue stains I left on the side of his palm as he dragged me across the page. He knew when I needed to rest, and when I was ready for more. He gave me a life that was fulfilling.

But now, he has left me.

My ink is still half full. Maybe he thinks it's half empty.

What if I didn't do enough for him? There were times when my ink struggled to meet the paper if I rested for too long. Could that be the reason?

I lie there for another hour, contemplating all the ways I've been imperfect to him. Then I feel a thousand hard bristles brush me along the ground. This is it. My master has returned for me. I brace myself to be picked up.

Nothing.

Instead, I am swept into a dark corner, buried under piles of crumpled paper and half-eaten food.

Maybe I should move on. My owner has left me behind. The dust settles in my grooves and gravy runs along my body. He doesn't care about me. I'm sure he has forgotten about me, and has found a keyboard to finish his sentence.

So to him I say: do not search for me. My ink has dried, my body is scratched and dirty. I have found new friends here, made useless by owners like you — owners who have erased our sacrifices from memory. Perhaps it is a blessing in disguise that you have let me go. I will find a new purpose with the half of me that is left. I will learn to exist without you now that you have learned to speak without me.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, celebrates the talents of writers worldwide, offering a platform for diverse voices and creative expressions. This prestigious event showcases works across various categories, including poetry, short stories, and flash fiction, fostering an international community of literary enthusiasts. Participants contribute their unique narratives, enriching the global conversation through the power of words.

We extend our gratitude to Tiana Forbes for her captivating submission, "Left Behind," as part of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her narrative offers a unique perspective on themes of abandonment and rediscovery, inviting readers to reflect on the value of overlooked objects. We look forward to witnessing Tiana's continued contributions to the world of creative writing.

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.