The Title in the Punchline - By Haseena Seedat

Written By: Haseena Seedat

Category: Short story

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Haseena Seedat brings an enthralling narrative to life in her short story, "The Title in the Punchline," submitted to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This compelling piece delves into a world where witches defy conventional norms, soaring without broomsticks. With a backdrop of fantasy elements, Seedat's story captivates readers, offering a thrilling encounter with mythical creatures and iconic characters.

About the Work

The short story is a riveting tale of adventure and suspense, weaving together elements of fantasy and magic. Haseena Seedat crafts a narrative that captures the reader's imagination with vivid descriptions and dynamic characters, including a fearsome beast and the iconic Gandalf. The work explores themes of courage and the unexpected, leaving readers on the edge of their seats as the protagonist faces an extraordinary challenge.

The Title in the Punchline

Original Submission by Haseena Seedat

The Title in the Punchline- because some witches are so talented, they don’t need broomsticks to fly!

By Haseena Seedat (2015)

The beast rose higher and higher- her leathery wings beating a brute force in a whirlwind propeller as she snarled and circled viciously, entrapping her sought out prey in an unrelenting tornado.

Her beady yellow eyes flared black! As she narrowed them in slanting pursuit at the pinprick of human in the deep recesses of her centre.

Scales of taunting, weathered sinew, twisted this way and back, as the beast's leathered neck orbited the encircling vacuum she was intent on creating.

" Oooooh I'm in trouble! "thought Alice, as the ground beneath her feet began to quake with raucous rumbling, sounding from the belly of the beast. Heat thundered the length of the beast's neck- a roar blasted from its gaping snarl, emitting hell's fire itself.

Flame travelled through the encompassing vacuum as an impenetrable blazing wall encircled the tiny form which was Alice.

" When Gandalf told me to sought out this magical beast, he failed to mention which WITCH would be transforming into this great ugly fiery beast! " thought Alice savagely.

" Damn you Gandalf! You could have warned me- you could have warned me that the beast I face before me, that her name, her name is MALEFiCENT! "

References:

* Alice - refer to poems " A Poem to Princes " and " Alice- A Prequel to a Poem to Princes ".

* Gandalf - refers to the Wizard in " The Lord of the Rings " , who sent Frodo Baggins on his quest to destroy the ring.

* Maleficent - refers to the most evil of witches who can transfigure herself into many animal forms, in this instance, a brute ugly dragon. Maleficent is the witch who cast the spell on Sleeping Beauty, who when on her 16th birthday pricked her finger on the enchanted spindle, fell into a deep sleep for a thousand years. Malefecent also stars in the well reknown mini series, " Once Upon a Time ".

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, is a prestigious event celebrating literary excellence. Writers from around the globe participate, sharing their unique voices and creative expressions. This competition aims to foster a vibrant community of writers and poets, offering a platform for diverse storytelling and innovative narratives.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Haseena Seedat for sharing her captivating story, "The Title in the Punchline," with us. Her participation in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 showcases her talent and creativity. We appreciate her contribution and look forward to more of her imaginative works.

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.