She’s Still My Mommy - By Carine Hartman

Written By: Carine Hartman

Category: Short Story

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the evocative short story "She’s Still My Mommy," Carine Hartman, writing as Column7, offers a deeply personal glimpse into the complexities of family relationships and love. Submitted to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, this story weaves a rich tapestry of emotion and memory, examining the bonds that define us. Hartman's narrative invites readers to reflect on the enduring nature of familial love and the bittersweet memories that linger over time.

About the Work

Carine Hartman's story is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and memory. The narrative is suffused with emotional depth, capturing the nuances of a complex familial relationship. Hartman uses vivid imagery and introspective prose to convey a sense of longing and reflection. The story navigates the intricate dynamics of family, revealing how past experiences shape one's identity and desires.

Column7

Original Submission by Carine Hartman

She’s still my mommy.

Fat, freckled and a massive bow in the hair I don’t see – but the raven-haired beauty leans over and I know I’m loved.

That’s my mommy I see in the pic taken 66 years ago.

But she’s not always loved me. I think.

I’m wrong. I think.

She spiraled for love – and regretted it.

I found the hidden letters my dad wrote to my gran about their “lust”, the “if we don’t get married now...”

But what this miner (who always worked above ground, Mommy said) couldn’t care about was the family he married into. One sister was married to a chemist; the other to the then-surgeon general of South Africa; and his would-be in-laws had a town named after them: Muldersdrift.

Because he was a bully.

You knew then and pretended to be in charge. But I saw you lose it within a week of being forced to move to the city – and the traffic got you. You never drove again. He became the chariot.

But you and I know that chariot carried young girls – preferably the colour of dusk.

You’d be pleased to know he died a year after you.

He kept me from saying goodbye to you 17 years ago tonight.

You died without me by your side even though you lit up when I walked into the room (God, if I can have that again).

But I still cry for you.

Because I remember the woman. I want to be you. Knowing.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a celebration of literary talent from across the globe. Bringing together a diverse array of voices, this competition invites writers to explore a wide range of themes and genres. It serves as a platform for emerging and established writers to showcase their creativity and connect with a broader audience.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Carine Hartman for sharing "She’s Still My Mommy" with us in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Through her powerful storytelling, Hartman enriches our understanding of love and memory. We are grateful for her contribution and look forward to witnessing her continued literary journey.

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.