The Diary Of Sadie Shaw - By Ella De Vere

Written By: Ella De Vere

Category: Flash Fiction

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Ella De Vere presents a compelling narrative in her flash fiction piece, "The Diary Of Sadie Shaw," as part of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This work delves into the theme of self-reflection, uncovering the intricate relationship between one's external appearance and internal perception. The story invites readers to ponder the complexities of vanity and self-image through the eyes of a character grappling with her own reflections.

About the Work

In "The Diary Of Sadie Shaw," Ella De Vere explores the nuanced theme of self-perception and the often harsh scrutiny individuals impose on themselves. The mood is introspective and slightly melancholic, with a rhythmic literary style that enhances the narrative's depth. Through vivid imagery of mirrors and reflections, the story conveys a powerful message about the pitfalls of excessive self-examination and the struggle for self-acceptance.

The Diary Of Sadie Shaw

Original Submission by Ella De Vere

THE DIARY OF SADIE SHAW

(Flash Fiction.)

31st of January

Dear Diary,

There is a certain grotesquerie in revelling in one's own image. Mirrors seem to beget obsession and creatures of morbid vanity. A looking glass, a mirror ball, even a polished car door, is all it takes to notice an inaccuracy, a flaw in skin or shape of face. People tend to scrutinise anything and everything that can be observed, especially themselves. I think that to be marked as salient,

solely because of appearance is an absolute sham, but here I am, a creature of morbid vanity, gazing into the depths of the crevices on my skin.

To frame these thoughts in a way that may sing to me and save my soul from an eternity of self-inflicted timidity, I’ve fashioned rhythmic sentences in an attempt to express my sentiments;

I’ve been bewitched by myself for far too long

I’ve hated myself like an overplayed song

I’ve interrogated the pores on my flesh for their crimes

They answered in unsatisfactory, unfulfilled rhyme

I’ve eaten my reflection for breakfast, lunch and dinner

And have grown to despise the stray in the mirror

I have seen daytime fade to the swarthiest night

Sequestered in stark, fluorescent light

I’ve ignored the omens and the warnings that say

“Don’t look too closely, or else all the beauty will fall away.”

I’ve lived in the mirror, now it’s where I belong

I’m not human, I’m the fear that I. just. look. Wrong.

Sadie Shaw.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious event celebrating the art of written expression. It gathers talented writers from around the world, offering a platform to showcase their literary prowess. This competition embraces a diverse range of categories, encouraging creativity and innovation in storytelling, poetry, and creative narratives.

Thank you, Ella De Vere, for sharing "The Diary Of Sadie Shaw" with us in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your work offers a thought-provoking exploration of self-image and reflection, leaving a lasting impact on its readers. We appreciate your contribution and look forward to seeing more of your creative endeavors.

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.