Off and away! - By Farwa Ali Syed
Written By: Farwa Ali Syed
Category: Flash Fiction
Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026
In the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, Farwa Ali Syed presents a poignant piece titled "Off and away!" This flash fiction entry delves into the intricate layers of personal identity and the longing for liberation. Through vivid imagery and emotional depth, Syed offers readers a glimpse into the internal struggle of a woman caught between societal expectations and her desire for freedom.
About the Work
"Off and away!" is a testament to the power of imagination and the yearning for escape. The protagonist, adorned in opulence yet feeling incomplete, discovers solace in a fantastical companion. The narrative evokes a sense of wonder and introspection, exploring themes of identity, dissatisfaction, and the liberating force of fantasy. Syed skillfully crafts a world where reality and dreams intertwine, offering readers a momentary escape from the mundane.
Off and away!
Original Submission by Farwa Ali Syed
Off and away!
The mirror reveals a complex woman.
Who is she?
I wonder.
With her hair gathered into a bun and held by pink satin ribbons.
Her silk ball gown rushes from her waist with waves of fabric.
A necklace of pearls shimmers as it rests around her neck.
She looks so put together.
But in reality.
She is the most undone.
The most ruined.
The most imperfect individual anyone would have ever seen.
Beyond her rooms’ balcony, somewhere in the night, she imagined the beat of distant wings.
I wish I could be an observer and just notice what’s outside.
The beauty.
The elegance.
The perfection.
Instead, I’m stuck suffocating in this endless spiral of misery and wanting, in her body.
A slight knock on my door wakes me from the abyss of perspectives I was drowning in.
My mother, the queen, enters with a trail of her fancy and velvety gown behind her.
“What is taking you so long, Riana?” she questioned with an impatient expression splattered on her face. Along with the makeup smeared upon her, concealing her wrinkles.
“O-Oh, I was just taking a minute to make sure I look…perfect for tonight”. I replied, best lie I could come up with.
“Well, if I don’t see you down in the next 5 minutes…. then you are in for it.” she threatened as she slammed the door.
I sighed.
Here I go.
I thought.
CLANK.
My head turns towards my balcony as I hear a faint noise, a calling, a familiar yet unfamiliar presence.
I’m just looking for an excuse not to go down at this point.
CLANK
There it is again!
I softly creep towards the curtain…...and withdraw it!
GASPS
Words could never describe what stood before me.
Before me, is a companion.
A confidant.
A friend.
My loyal Pegasus, Strider.
I reach for an embrace as he brays with bliss.
In that moment, I knew what I had to do.
I mounted Strider.
He spread his wings and lifted us off the glass floor of my balcony.
The higher we flew, the lighter my chest became.
I look back one last time, take a deep breath, and never look again.
Its off and away!
About the Competition
The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar celebrates diverse voices in literature. This esteemed platform provides writers worldwide an opportunity to showcase their creativity and engage with a global audience. The competition embraces various forms of writing, encouraging participants to explore their unique narrative styles and thematic interests.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Farwa Ali Syed for her captivating submission, "Off and away!" Her participation in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 enriches the tapestry of creative expression. We look forward to seeing more of her evocative storytelling 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.
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