What Happened to This Girl - By Carine Hartman

Written By: Carine Hartman

Category: Short Story

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Carine Hartman, writing under the name Column5, presents "What Happened to This Girl" as part of the Short Story category in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This reflective piece delves into themes of self-discovery, identity, and resilience. Hartman invites readers on a nostalgic journey, examining the passage of time and the impact of life's experiences on our sense of self.

About the Work

In "What Happened to This Girl," Carine Hartman explores the nuanced journey of self-reflection and identity. Through vivid imagery and an introspective tone, she questions the dreams and innocence of her past. The narrative is rich with metaphors and a profound sense of nostalgia, capturing the essence of life's unpredictable twists and turns. Hartman's style is both contemplative and empowering, encouraging readers to embrace their unique path.

Column5

Original Submission by Carine Hartman

What happened to this girl, I wonder as I look at the last pic of me in uniform…

Do I hang onto the good legs with the too big feet, or do I look at the trash can I so own?

Did she have dreams I just can’t remember?

Did she think she’ll marry her then-love of her life and have …whatever. White-picket fences weren’t in my vocabulary. It was a distant MAGA dream then. We had no fences, didn’t lock our doors and only worried when the uncles came to visit.

Did she laugh at the world frivolously daring it to take her on?

I don’t think so. She was innocent.

Still is. More than 50 years later she’s still gullible about people, life, love…

Maybe she was just frivolous, not knowing life will chew at you, girl…

And that’s maybe the trash can: life. Can you just take your slice, then. Again and again. But I’ll crumple it up, lift up that lid and throw it right back at you, Life.

Because I have big feet and stand firm.

Always hated them, my feet, and was teased mercilessly because “Titanic entered the room.”

In fact, the only size 8 I could find before Temu 40 years later was “air hostess” shoes: sensible heels in old-woman blue that hide all your bunions.

It suited my mom, who shaped “good legs” into “never wear a mini; you have big hips” to a tee because God forbid I dare stand taller than any man I have ever known.

Didn’t Beloved and I go shopping on our wedding day for “platforms” for him just so he can meet my eyes?

Frivolous.

He never wore those boots again and shamelessly reached up to hug me for 32 years.

Did that trashy girl with the wide smile up there know there’ll be four kids, lots of chaos, drama, near-divorces and heart-breaking lessons?

Maybe.

Maybe she knew those big feet will always ground her. Maybe she knew one day she won’t need them: she won’t touch the ground.

She’ll just fly.

Who needs good legs?

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform celebrating diverse literary voices. It offers writers worldwide an opportunity to share their unique stories and perspectives. The competition is renowned for its commitment to fostering creativity and showcasing exceptional talent in poetry, short stories, and creative writing.

We extend our gratitude to Carine Hartman for sharing her evocative short story, "What Happened to This Girl," in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her work offers a powerful reflection on personal growth and resilience. Thank you, Carine, for your inspiring contribution to the literary world.

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.