Literary – September 16

“I think that love must be the ability to suspend one’s intelligence for the sake of something.” -James Alan McPherson, born this date in 1943. Writing prompt: Write a scene in which your protagonist suspends his/her intelligence.

Journaling + Fiction – September 16

“A person without a sense of humor is like a wagon without springs. It’s jolted by every pebble on the road.”Henry Ward Beecher Journal prompt: Spend at least 20 minutes writing about an experience when you used humor to successfully navigate a minefield. Fiction writing prompt: Write a scene in which your protagonist’s sense of humor creates more trouble than it avoids.

Big Questions – September 16

Of what decision you’ve made in the past are you most ashamed? Journaling prompt: Spend 15-20 minutes writing your answer in the spirit of exploring yourself and the world around you. If you can answer with a simple “yes” or “no,” explain the sources or implications of your response. Fiction writing prompt: Write a scene that forces a character in your story to answer the question, or spend 15-20 minutes...

Romance – September 16

On this date in 1896, Stephen Crane interfered with police arresting his acquaintance and interview subject, Dora Clark, for prostitution. Writing prompt: Write a scene in which your protagonist is suspected of breaking the law while carrying on a routine, legal activity.

Mystery – September 16

“I worry. I mean, little things bother me. I’m a worrier. I mean, little insignificant details — I lose my appetite.” -Lt. Frank Colombo as portrayed by Peter Falk, born this date in 1927. Writing prompt: Write a scene in which your protagonist annoys someone into a confession.

SciFi/Fantasy – September 16

“In a hierarchy every employee tends to rise to his level of incompetence.”- Laurence J. Peter, born this date in 1919. Writing prompt: Write a scene in which your protagonist fails at the first task after being given an opportunity to advance.

Secondary – September 16

On this date in 1620, the Mayflower left Plymouth, England, with 102 passengers bound for the “New World.” Considering the distance and challenges of any future new worlds, describe what would make you decide to make a pilgrimage to one if given the opportunity.

Primary – September 16

HA Rey, who with his wife Margret created Curious George, was born on this date in 1898. Write about a time you didn’t pursue your curiosity and what happened to make you wish you had.