Mystery – May 17

On this date in 1978, authorities recovered the corpse and coffin of Charlie Chaplin, which had been stolen and held for ransom for more than two months. Writing prompt: Write a scene in which your protagonist recovers something that no one can imagine anyone would want to steal.

Secondary – May 17

On this date in 1954, the US Supreme Court ruled that racial segregation in public schools was unconstitutional. How would your life be different if America had never desegregated its public institutions?

SciFi/Fantasy – May 17

On this date in 1902, Valerios Stais discovered the Antikythera mechanism. Writing prompt: Write a scene in which your protagonist finds something mechanical for which there is no obvious purpose.

Literary – May 17

Actor and comedian Bob Saget was born on this date in 1956. Writing prompt: Write a scene in which your protagonist discovers that a person known for extraordinary kindness and gentle demeanor is actually a profane, manic bully.

Romance – May 17

French composer and artist Erik Satie, who proposed to his mistress after one night together, was born on this date in 1866. Writing prompt: Write a scene in which your protagonist’s one-night stand decides it’s true love.