Imagine entering a museum and seeing a strange object. You try to determine its purpose, based upon its shape and size. You discover and plaque that explains it’s a comb made of ivory or a device to separate twigs out of wool.
Your mind accepts the description.
But what if the explanation does not help?
Your task is to write a scene in which your character comes across what some might see as an ordinary, everyday object, but she can’t process its function or puupose.
Have fun with this one.
Superman leaps into the air and soars across the sky, looking for the burning building with hundreds trapped inside.
Cat Woman jumps from roof to roof, chasing burglars down below.
The Blob slides across a major intersection, sucking up busses and cars alike.
All of these have superpowers, some to be used for good, others to create chaos.
Your task is to write a story in which your character utilizes his or her superpower to overcome….what?
Have fun with this one.
Imagine reading a historical document and getting an idea to try to repeat what happened all those years ago. A revolution? An uprising? Establishing a new city with new rules for governing?
Or perhaps thinking that he might change the past by creating a new future?
Your task is to write a story in which your character reads something from the past and takes action.
Have fun with this one.
Couples arrive at a party, many arm-in-arm. Some seem enamored with each other, while many walk side-by-side, not touching. Initially the couples stroll together, stopping to join in conversations here and there.
The host calls for everyone’s attention. Announces that all couples must split apart and go in search of new partners.
Imagine the protests. The chaos. The fun?
Your task is to write a story in which romantic partners are switched.
Have fun with this one.
Your character is a sweet, intelligent, thoughtful young man. He dotes on his girlfriend, giving her gifts of icer cream, constructions he’s made from wood, and songs he’s chosen just for her. Then he changes. Suddenly.
He’s no longer sweet. His intelligence seems to have shrunk. He’s narcissistic and mean.
Which version is the true one?
Your task is to write a story in which readers begin to doubt if the character is the person who they say they are.
Have fun with this one.
High schools often have a variety of clubs. Some focus on environmental issues while others are dedicated to dance. Some are book clubs while others support sports.
People join clubs for a variety of reasons. Companionship is probably high on the list. Being with people with common interests is another. In high school students are looking for ways to boost their profile when applying to colleges.
Your task is to write a story in which your character is in some type of club.
Have fun with this one.
Every story has a mystery hidden inside. The question might be what arises to keep the lovers apart or, just as likely, who’s going to die first?
Your task is to write a story in which your character sets out to discover who committed the crime. But add a twist…the culprit is not who they thought it would be.
Have fun with this one.
Imagine someone concerned about their future, so concerned that they seek the advice of a seer. They approach her shop, ring the bell, and panic when the door opens. Or perhaps they don’t panic, but rush in, full of joy.
What do they hope to learn? Something about themselves or someone else?
Your task is to write a story in which your character seeks out some reference to their future, either through some form of a medium or through advice of friends.
Have fun with this one.
Cartoons often have fan clubs in which members write extensions or additions to the series. Imagine Yosemite Sam falling off a cliff into a raging river, then something unusual happens.
Instead of rewriting a cartoon, think fairy tale. Think Cinderella as the hero of her own story, rescuing Prince Charming. Little Red Robin defeats the Wolf on the walk to
Grandma’s house. The boy walks past the hole in the dike, but his sister stays behind to save the town.
Your task is to write a story based upon a fairy tale. Switch things up just enough that your version is completely original.
Have fun with this one.
Children have a refreshing outlook on the world. Everything is new, even when they’ve seen it before.
Take a child to the zoo, the same on they’ve visited many times before, and their eyes light up when the lion roars, they smile when the giraffe leans down to stare them in the eye and when the mongooses dash about.
Your task is to write a story from a child’s point of view. Fill it with wonder and awe.
Have fun with this one.
