The Clock Tower - By Dumlao, Julliane Brianna

Written By: Dumlao, Julliane Brianna

Category: Flash FIction

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Julliane Brianna Dumlao brings us an intriguing flash fiction piece titled "The Clock Tower," submitted to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Dumlao's narrative, centered around the persistent chimes of a clock tower at midnight, invites readers into a world where dreams blur with reality, and ordinary frustrations lead to unexpected adventures. This story showcases Dumlao's creativity and humor, making it a memorable addition to the competition's diverse collection of literary works.

About the Work

"The Clock Tower" captivates with its playful tone and imaginative storyline. Dumlao explores themes of annoyance and rebellion through the protagonist's whimsical journey, where frustration with a midnight bell leads to a humorous and unplanned escapade. The vivid imagery and light-hearted narrative style immerse readers in a tale that balances humor with a touch of introspection. Dumlao's work cleverly highlights the thin line between dreams and reality, leaving readers both amused and contemplative.

The Clock Tower

Original Submission by Dumlao, Julliane Brianna

The Clock Tower

DO-ONGG! DO-ONGG! It’s 12:00 midnight. I sit up and look out my window to view the clock tower. Awakened by it—again. Why would anyone want to remind everyone it’s midnight with such a loud dong? We’re all asleep for goodness golly! I’ve had just about enough of it. I moved here to be in a safe and warm environment. Every single night for 2 weeks I wake up because of this. No more shall we hear of this tomorrow! I sharply draw back the curtain and tuck myself into bed.

RIIING! RIIING! I wake with a start. That little clo- oh. Just my alarm. A funny thing is I had a dream of the neverending sound of the tower. I thank the Lord it was just a dream. Looking back, I think I may have overexaggerated a bit about the tower last night, but it was reasonable for someone so sleepy.

Today is a Saturday—unpacking day. I haven’t fixed my things yet because last weekend, I had to clear some documents and the rest of the days were work and just procrastination. Yesterday was supposed to be unpacking day and the day before, but eating out felt way more important.

Anyways, I clean myself and change my clothes. I wear black pants and a black shirt with black socks and a black bonnet. It’s comfy, especially in this cool weather. Before I unpack, I sketch a few things in my sketchbook— the clocktower, someone climbing it—stuff like that on my bed. This isn’t procrastination, it’s a morning routine to wake me up. I do also need some fresh air, so I get up and unlock my door to go out. Ah, nature, the tweeting of the birds, the swaying of the trees. Just breathtaking. While taking in the scenery, I decide to take a short stroll into town. After a few hundred metres away from my house, I find myself in front of the entrance of the clock tower. Well, I do want a quick tour, it being one of the town’s historical landmarks and all.

I walk up the stairs, taking looks at the machinery. Pretty impressive, I might say. With my hand, I toss my bonnet on moving gears, putting them to a stop. I hear a loud creak. What just happened? What did I- Who did-? Wait a minute now. Was it me? Nope, it was not. It was my hand. My hand did that. Why would anyone do such a thing, especially with it being a historical landmark? I run more flights of stairs, tossing and turning parts of the clock out the shattered glass window and really just everywhere. Surprisingly, I find it thrilling. “HAHA! That’s what you get, you loudmouth!” CLINK! CLANG! FREEZE! RAISE YOUR ARMS NOW! NOW! Oops. Maybe it was too thrilling. I pull my arms up and let go of a lever on my right hand. I am detained almost instantly.

That’s how I ended up here, in the police station. Just remember, it wasn’t me. It was my hand. “Okay. You can stop writing,” a police officer tells me. “Stop.” My hands are doing it. I take the typewriter and make a run for it. Wher dcfgvjh*

UPDATE: This is Officer Jawn Lemun. The suspect is currently being detained and will serve a much longer time than the standard. Possibly in a mental asylum.

Jawn Lemun

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, celebrates the vibrant tapestry of creative expression worldwide. This esteemed event invites writers to showcase their talents across various genres, fostering a global community of literary enthusiasts. Participants share their unique voices and stories, contributing to a rich anthology of contemporary literature. The competition continues to support and inspire writers, encouraging the exploration of new ideas and creative boundaries.

We extend our sincere thanks to Julliane Brianna Dumlao for her engaging flash fiction piece, "The Clock Tower." Her contribution to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 adds a delightful and thought-provoking layer to the collection. Dumlao's narrative skillfully combines humor and reflection, capturing the imagination of readers. We look forward to her future endeavors in 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.