Mirror, Mirror - By Kimana Khedun

Written By: Kimana Khedun

Category: Creative Non-Fiction

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Kimana Khedun invites readers to contemplate identity and self-perception in her poignant piece titled "Mirror, Mirror." As a participant in the Creative Non-Fiction category of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, Khedun explores the complex theme of self-recognition in a world where reflections may not always align with one’s inner truth. This contemplative work encourages a deep introspection on the nature of existence and the desire for genuine connection.

About the Work

"Mirror, Mirror" presents an introspective exploration of personal identity through the metaphor of reflection. Khedun's narrative weaves a tapestry of emotions, capturing the struggle of feeling invisible despite the tangible evidence of one's existence. The piece is rich with imagery and evokes a haunting yet relatable sense of disconnection and longing, as the narrator grapples with self-awareness amidst a backdrop of solitude and desire for warmth.

Mirror, mirror

Original Submission by Kimana Khedun

Mirror mirror (Creative Non-Fiction)

Written by Kimana Khedun

Am I imaginary? Do I even exist?

I find myself at the brim of a pool, balanced just enough for my legs to dangle above the still, mirror-like water. I stare down at my reflection and ask myself: Who is this? What am I looking at? I do not even recognize myself.

A reflection is supposed to prove that you exist.

So why does mine make me feel invisible?

An emptiness settles within me. I feel as though I could disappear into the motionless water and no one would notice. It is as if I am an illusion, visible only to those who choose to see me. Yet most of the time, I cannot even see myself.

On my way out of English class, I catch my reflection in a mirror. A glance is all it takes. Staring back at me is a soulless body, moving through the motions of a life that does not feel entirely its own.

The mirror presents evidence that I am here, yet it feels fabricated somehow, as though I am watching an actor perform the role of my life, and everyone else seems convinced by the performance.

When my parents ask how I am doing, I reply, “I’m fine,” when, in truth, all I want to do is stand beneath a hot shower and listen to Whitney Houston. Through the fogged glass of the shower door, I catch another glimpse of myself. Strangely, I almost look forward to the end of my shower, when the condensation of disappointment and resentment gathers and curls across the glass, engulfing my image until my reflection is no longer visible.

For a moment, there is relief.

My hands itch to move. My conscience whispers that I have the power to remove this feeling, to free myself with a simple swipe across the glass.

But my heart tells me not to do it, that it is not worth it. And so my hands remain limp at my sides, lifeless beside a body that feels much the same.

When the hand of a loved one brushes against my bare shoulder, I shudder. Not because the touch is unwelcome, but because it forces me to choose. Do I look back at them, or do I keep my eyes fixed on the future, my future, my destiny?

I think about my options, yet I find myself staring into oblivion. It is the only thing that numbs me. No thoughts. No feelings. No emotions. No urges or cravings. Existing this way feels easier.

If you cannot feel, you cannot get hurt.

Yet the difficulty of following my own advice haunts me. I long to be cold, but I cannot. Deep down, warmth is all I truly desire.

Because despite everything, despite the walls I build and the distance I create, I still crave warmth. I crave connection. I crave the feeling of being understood without having to explain why I am struggling to understand myself.

I close my eyes, and darkness surrounds me. It draws me in, urging me to remain where nothing resides. For a fleeting moment, it appeals to me because my life feels no different from the darkness that envelops me now.

Then reality returns.

I see myself reflected in the eyes of someone who loves me, and once again I ask myself:

Who am I?

Who is this person sitting here, looking at themselves through someone else's eyes? Who is this person they see as something, when every time I gaze at my own reflection, I see nothing?

594 words

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar serves as a platform for writers worldwide to showcase their literary prowess. This esteemed competition celebrates the art of written expression across various categories, inviting participants to share their unique voices and perspectives. It fosters a global community of creativity and innovation, encouraging writers to push the boundaries of traditional storytelling.

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to Kimana Khedun for sharing her evocative piece, "Mirror, Mirror," with us. Her participation in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 adds a profound dimension to the dialogue on identity and self-discovery. We look forward to seeing more of her insightful contributions to the world of creative non-fiction.

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.