Literary – November 20

Novelist Don DeLillo, born on this day in 1936, wrote in his book White Noise, “The system was invisible, which makes it all the more impressive, all the more disquieting to deal with.” Writing prompt: Write a scene in which your protagonist runs into a system s/he cannot  see or understand.

Literary – November 19

On this date in 1863, U.S. President Abraham Lincoln delivered the Gettysburg Address on a Civil War battlefield in Pennsylvania. Writing prompt: Write a scene in which an obstacle comes into direct conflict with that for which your antagonist would give her or his last full measure of devotion. You can listen to Sam Waterston recite Lincoln’s immortal words in this video.

Literary – November 18

“Never pray for justice, because you might get some.” -Margaret Atwood, born on this date in 1939. Writing prompt: Write a scene in which your protagonist’s demand for justice is satisfied unsatisfyingly.

Literary – November 17

Hal Incandenza rapped on the door of Ennet House on this date in the Year of the Depends Adult Undergarment. Writing prompt: Write a scene in which your protagonist must seek help for a problem s/he has denied having for many years.

Literary – November 16

“I looked at her and wondered what I am except appetite.” -Andrea Barrett, born this date in 1954. Writing prompt: Write a scene in which your protagonist’s appetites get the better of him/her.

Literary – November 15

“I think the key image of the 20th century is the man in the motor car.” -JG Ballard, born this date in 1930. Writing prompt: Write a scene in which your protagonist debates the key image of the 21st century with his/her antagonist.