Literary – May 18

“A stupid man’s report of what a clever man says can never be accurate, because he unconsciously translates what he hears into something he can understand.” -Bertrand Russell, born on this date in 1872. Writing prompt: Write a scene in which something perfectly sensible and inoffensive said by your protagonist causes a considerable conflict with someone your protag cares about because it was...

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.

Literary – May 16

Louis “Studs” Terkel was born on this date in 1912. Writing prompt: Write a scene in which your protagonist unexpectedly discovers the deep human decency of someone from a significantly different socioeconomic class.

Literary – May 15

“Experience is what really happens to you in the long run; the truth that finally overtakes you.” -Katherine Anne Porter, born this date in 1890. Writing prompt: Write a scene from earlier in your protagonist’s life that seemed insignificant at the time, but which later becomes an overtaking truth.

Literary – May 14

“I came to know that a frontier is never a place; it is a time and a way of life. I came to know that frontiers pass, but they endure in their people.” -Hal Borland, born this date in 1900. Writing prompt: Write a scene in which an ancestor of your protagonist describes her/his experiences on a frontier.

Literary – May 13

“Love wouldn’t be blind if the braille weren’t so damned much fun.” -Armistead Maupin, born this date in 1944. Writing prompt: Write a scene in which your protagonist celebrates being without one of his/her five senses.

Literary – May 12

On this date in 1937, George VI was crowned king of England, succeeding his brother, who abdicated to marry American divorcee Wallis Simpson. Writing prompt: Write a scene in which your protagonist receives something s/he doesn’t much want because of a frenemy’s bad decision.

Literary – May 11

“The first principle is that you must not fool yourself and you are the easiest person to fool.” -Richard Feynman, born this date in 1918. Writing prompt: Write a scene in which your protagonist knows s/he must not fall prey to self-delusion but does so anyway.