SciFi/Fantasy – October 13

“What kind of sin could a man commit in a single lifetime to bring this upon himself?” The Amazing Colossal Man premiered on this date in 1957. Writing prompt: Write a scene in which your protagonist confronts something normal that’s been transformed into something horrible.

Secondary – October 13

“How dare anyone, parent, schoolteacher, or merely literary critic, tell me not to act colored.” -Arna Bontemps, born on this date in 1902. Explain whether it’s appropriate to do something for someone’s own good even if it’s against their will.

Primary – October 13

Tell a story about a time you were proud of a friend.

Literary – October 12

“You don’t write about the horrors of war. No. You write about a kid’s burnt socks lying in the road.” -Richard Price, born this date in 1949. Writing prompt: Describe from your protagonist’s point of view and in your protag’s voice the most life-altering image s/he has ever encountered.

Journaling + Fiction – October 12

“You don’t lead by pointing and telling people some place to go. You lead by going to that place and making a case.”Ken Kesey Journal prompt: Spend at least 20 minutes writing about the difference between leading and ruling. Fiction writing prompt: Write a scene in which your protagonist assumes the people behind him/her are following.

Big Questions – October 12

Under what circumstances would you stiff a service worker who expects a tip? 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...

Romance – October 12

“I did it because I’m a dirty dog.” -Sid Vicious, in a confession later retracted, on this date in 1978 following the discovery of Nancy Spungen’s body in their Hotel Chelsea room. Writing prompt: Write a scene in which your protagonist fails to extricate her/himself from a relationship headed towards a bad end.

Mystery – October 12

“When I finally caught up with Abraham Trahearne, he was drinking beer with an alcoholic bulldog named Fireball Roberts in a ramshackle joint just outside of Sonora, California, drinking the heart right out of a fine spring afternoon.” -James Crumley, born this date in 1939. Writing prompt: Write an opening line to top that one.