Tag: write about an emotional conflict

Hurdles

On By Terry ConnellyIn prompt, Uncategorized, Writing promptLeave a comment

Life is a series of hurdles that we have to jump. Or at least attempt to jump.

The problem is that some hurdles are more challenging than others, some more pleasant than others to achieve.

In track, of course, there is an event involving hurdles. Athletes run at incredibly fast speeds, clearing a series of metal hurdles along the way. That’s something I could never have done for two reasons: my short legs and my terror at jumping.

For most of us, hurdles are more mundane. It could be a death in the family, rent to pay, a search for a new job, trying to find a mate in the dating pool.

Your task is to write a story in which your protagonist is faced with a substantial hurdle that, in some way, is blocking her way forward.

Make the hurdle realistic, but challenging. Doable, but not without great difficulty.

Have fun with this one.

An Old Acquaintance

On By Terry ConnellyIn prompt, Uncategorized, Writing promptLeave a comment

            Every now and then someone from our long-forgotten past reappears. It can be a pleasant surprise or one fraught with fear. In the first case, the two of you might go to a café, take a walk around a park, and then exchange contact information.

            In the second case, you might search for a way to disengage and escape.

            The stories about those events will be completely different: one filled with joy, the other with fright.

            Your task is to write a story in which someone from the past shows up, unexpectedly. Your character needs to show emotions appropriate to the scene you’ve chosen.

            Pepper the story with interesting dialogue, narrative and scene description.

Have fun with this one.

Life Change

On By Terry ConnellyIn prompt, Uncategorized, Writing promptLeave a comment

            As we grow, we change many things about ourselves. Some are superficial, such as trying out a new hairstyle, experimenting with makeup, buying a completely new style of clothing.

            Other changes are more serious, such as transferring from one college to another in order to switch majors, moving out of the family home, getting engaged, and finding the first full time job.

            Your task is to write a story in which your character is faced with her first major life decision, one that will lead to a huge change in their life.

            A lot depends upon the age of your protagonist. For example, a senior in high school is choosing between colleges or trade schools. During college, she might change majors once she realizes job employment possibilities are limited.

            Adults get married, separated, divorced. Switch jobs in order to climb the professional ladder.

            Some changes work out well, but many do not.

            Have fun with this one.

That Was Embarrassing

On By Terry ConnellyIn prompt, Uncategorized, Writing promptLeave a comment

            Some people embarrass easily. When someone compliments them, their cheeks redden. If someone likes their outfit, they blush. If they bring a well-liked dish to a potluck, they lower their head when everyone offers praise.

            Your task is to write a story in which your protagonist finds himself in an incredibly embarrassing moment.

            Come up with a list of potential causes, then narrow it down to the one that you would find the most entertaining to write.

            Your story can be humorous, serious, threatening, even humiliating.

            Have fun with this one.

The Candy Shop

On By Terry ConnellyIn prompt, Uncategorized, Writing promptLeave a comment

            How many times has a candy shop been a setting in a movie or novel? Most likely, quite a few.

            Imagine being that pioneer child, riding into town on the back of the family wagon, going into the store and finding jars of hard candies right before your eyes. If you could only have just one, which would it be and why?

            What if the temptation was so great, the saliva pooling in your mouth, and you know there’s no money for just one piece? Would you reach into a jar when the owner was busy?

            When did the tradition of buying popcorn and candy to take into a movie begin? For some of us, it’s ingrained in our routines: it wouldn’t feel right to be without the buttery goodness or sticky licorice.

            Your task is to write a story in which candy plays an important role.

            Have fun with this one.