Creative Primer

25 Creative Writing Prompts to Ignite Your Creativity

Brooks Manley

Creative writing is a vast and dynamic field that offers a platform for individuals to express their ideas, emotions, and stories in an imaginative and original way.

It plays a crucial role in enhancing communication skills, fostering empathy, and also promoting a deep understanding of the human experience. If you’re not sure how to get started, consider these helpful writing prompts – let’s get creative!

The Importance of Creative Writing

In the realm of literature and beyond, creative writing holds a pivotal role. It not only allows for personal expression but also:

  • fosters critical thinking
  • enhances vocabulary
  • improves writing skills
  • conveys complex ideas and emotions
  • serves as a therapeutic medium
  • enhances empathy

From short stories and poetry to novels and screenplays, creative writing spans a wide array of genres and styles, and offers endless opportunities for exploration and expression.

In the professional realm, creative writing skills are highly valued. They can lead to various creative writing jobs in fields like publishing, advertising, journalism, and content creation. For those interested in pursuing higher education in this field, you might want to explore whether a degree in creative writing is worth it .

Understanding Creative Writing Prompts

When it comes to igniting creativity and fostering unique ideas, creative writing prompts play an invaluable role. They provide a starting point, a spark that can lead to a flame of inspiration for writers.

How Prompts Can Ignite Creativity

While creative writing is an exciting field, it can sometimes be challenging to kickstart the creative process. This is where creative writing prompts come into play. These prompts are designed to ignite the imagination and inspire writers to create original and compelling pieces.

They help to overcome writer’s block , encourage experimentation with different styles and genres. So, whether you’re a seasoned writer or a beginner, creative writing prompts can be an invaluable tool to spark creativity and enhance your writing skills.

What are Creative Writing Prompts?

Creative writing prompts are essentially ideas, questions, or topics that are designed to inspire and stimulate the creative writing process. They serve as a catalyst, helping to ignite the writer’s imagination and encourage them to explore new themes, concepts, or perspectives.

These prompts can take a myriad of forms. They might be a single word, a phrase, a sentence, or even an image. Remember, regardless of the format, the goal of a creative writing prompt is to trigger thought and also encourage writers to delve deeper into their creative psyche, producing unique and compelling pieces of writing.

For more understanding of what creative writing entails, read our article on what is creative writing .

Types of Creative Writing Prompts

There are various types of creative writing prompts, each tailored to stimulate different forms of writing, cater to various genres, or inspire certain ideas. For example, you might encounter:

  • Fiction Writing Prompts : These prompts are designed to inspire stories. They might provide a setting, a character, a conflict, or a plot point to kick-start the writer’s imagination.
  • Non-Fiction Writing Prompts : These prompts are geared towards non-fiction writing, such as essays, memoirs, or journalistic pieces. They might pose a question, present a topic, or propose a perspective for the writer to explore.
  • Poetry Writing Prompts : These prompts are tailored for writing poetry. They could suggest a theme, a form, a line, or a poetic device to be used in the poem.
  • Dialogue Writing Prompts : These prompts focus on conversations and are designed to inspire dialogue-driven pieces. They generally provide a line or a snippet of conversation to act as a starting point.
  • Story Starter Writing Prompts : These prompts serve as the opening line or the first paragraph of a story. The writer’s task is to continue the narrative from there.

Understanding the different types of creative writing prompts is essential to making the most of them. For example, when you choose the right type of prompt, you target specific writing skills , push boundaries of creativity, and provide the necessary spark to bring your ideas to life.

25 Creative Writing Prompts

Using creative writing prompts is a great way to jumpstart your creativity and get the ideas flowing. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or a beginner, these prompts can help inspire your next piece. Here, we’ve broken down 25 prompts into five categories: fiction, non-fiction, poetry, dialogue, and story starters.

Fiction Writing Prompts

Fiction allows writers to flex their imaginative muscles. The following prompts can help to stir up new ideas for a unique storyline:

  • Write a story where the main character finds an old, mysterious letter in the attic.
  • Imagine a world where animals can talk.
  • Create a tale where a character discovers they have a superpower.
  • Write about a character who wakes up in a different era.
  • Write a story set in a world where money doesn’t exist.

Non-Fiction Writing Prompts

Non-fiction writing can help you explore real-life experiences and lessons. Here are some prompts to get you started:

  • Write about a time when you faced a significant challenge and how you overcame it.
  • Describe the most influential person in your life.
  • Share a moment when you learned a valuable lesson.
  • Write about an unforgettable trip.
  • Discuss a current event that has impacted you personally.

Poetry Writing Prompts

Poetry allows for artistic expression through words. These prompts can inspire new verses:

  • Write a poem about a dream you can’t forget.
  • Create a sonnet about the changing seasons.
  • Write about an emotion without naming it directly.
  • Craft a poem inspired by a piece of art.
  • Pen a haiku about nature’s power.

Dialogue Writing Prompts

Dialogue writing can help you improve your dialogue creation skills. Try these prompts:

  • Write a conversation between two people stuck in an elevator.
  • Describe a heated argument between a character and their best friend.
  • Create a dialogue where a character reveals a deep secret.
  • Write an exchange between a detective and a suspect.
  • Craft a conversation between two people who speak different languages.

Story Starter Writing Prompts

Story starters are great for sparking an idea for a story. Here are some to try:

  • “When she opened the door, she couldn’t believe her eyes…”
  • “He’d waited his whole life for this moment, and now…”
  • “It was a town like no other, because…”
  • “She was the last person on earth, or so she thought…”
  • “The letter arrived, marked with a seal she didn’t recognize…”

These creative writing prompts are designed to challenge you and spark your creativity. Remember, the goal is not to create a perfect piece of writing but to ignite your imagination and hone your writing skills. Also, don’t forget, you can always revise and refine your work later .

For more on the art of writing, check out our article on what is creative writing .

Making the Most of Your Creative Writing Prompts

Now that you have a list of creative writing prompts at your disposal, it’s important to understand how to utilize them effectively. The value of a prompt lies not just in the initial idea it provides, but also in how it can be expanded and developed into a full-blown piece of writing.

How to Use Creative Writing Prompts Effectively

Using creative writing prompts effectively requires an open mind and a willingness to explore. Here are some strategies to make the most of your prompts:

  • Brainstorming: Allow yourself to brainstorm ideas after reading the prompt. Jot down whatever comes to mind without self-judgment or censorship.
  • Freedom: Give yourself the freedom to interpret the prompt in your own way. Remember, prompts are starting points, not rigid guidelines.
  • Experimentation: Experiment with different genres, perspectives, and writing styles. A prompt can be turned into a poem, a short story, or even a script for a play.
  • Consistency: Try to write regularly. Whether you choose to do this daily, weekly, or bi-weekly, consistency can help develop your writing skills.
  • Reflection: Finally, reflect on the prompt and your writing. Consider what worked, what didn’t, and also what you would like to improve in your next piece.

In addition to this, check out our article on what is creative writing .

Tips to Expand on a Prompt

Expanding on a prompt involves transforming a simple idea into a fully developed narrative. Here are a few tips:

  • Character Development: Flesh out your characters. Give them backgrounds, motivations, and flaws to make them more relatable and interesting.
  • Plot Building: Develop a coherent plot. Consider the key events, conflicts, and resolutions that will drive your story forward.
  • Show, Don’t Tell: Show the reader what’s happening through vivid descriptions and actions rather than simply telling them.
  • Dialogue: Use dialogue to reveal character traits and advance the plot. Make sure it’s natural and adds value to your story.
  • Editing: Finally review and revise your work. Look for areas where you can improve clarity, tighten your prose, and also eliminate any inconsistencies or errors.

Editor’s Note : Don’t get rid of old ideas or unfinished works – you never know when looking back over these might spark inspiration or two ideas might mesh to form something cohesive and new!

The Right Prompts Grow Your Skills

By using these strategies, you can take full advantage of creative writing prompts and improve your writing skills. So, whether you’re pursuing a career in creative writing or just looking for a new hobby, these tips can help you unlock your full creative potential.

For more insights on creative writing, check out our articles on creative writing jobs and what you can do with a creative writing degree and how to teach creative writing .

Also, don’t miss our master list of more than 250 journal prompts .

Brooks Manley

Brooks Manley

creative writing ideas topics

Creative Primer  is a resource on all things journaling, creativity, and productivity. We’ll help you produce better ideas, get more done, and live a more effective life.

My name is Brooks. I do a ton of journaling, like to think I’m a creative (jury’s out), and spend a lot of time thinking about productivity. I hope these resources and product recommendations serve you well. Reach out if you ever want to chat or let me know about a journal I need to check out!

Here’s my favorite journal for 2024: 

the five minute journal

Gratitude Journal Prompts Mindfulness Journal Prompts Journal Prompts for Anxiety Reflective Journal Prompts Healing Journal Prompts Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Journal Prompts Mental Health Journal Prompts ASMR Journal Prompts Manifestation Journal Prompts Self-Care Journal Prompts Morning Journal Prompts Evening Journal Prompts Self-Improvement Journal Prompts Creative Writing Journal Prompts Dream Journal Prompts Relationship Journal Prompts "What If" Journal Prompts New Year Journal Prompts Shadow Work Journal Prompts Journal Prompts for Overcoming Fear Journal Prompts for Dealing with Loss Journal Prompts for Discerning and Decision Making Travel Journal Prompts Fun Journal Prompts

Is a Degree in Creative Writing Worth it?

You may also like, planner review: moleskine’s weekly planner.

Brooks Manley

The Best Planners for Moms in 2024

47 mental health journal prompts, leave a reply cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

  • Productivity
  • Favorite Journals
  • Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content

The Wordling

The Wordling - The info and tools you need to live your best writing life.

100 Creative Writing Prompts to Inspire Your Writing

creative writing ideas topics

With this list, you’ll never run out of story ideas again!

By Natasha Khullar Relph

Starting a new project feels like stepping into a world of endless possibilities, yet it can also be like staring into the abyss of the unknown. While the battle between a writer and their blank page is well documented, you don’t have to go to war with your creative self just to get some words on a page.

Creative writing prompts can be the answer to a blocked writer’s prayers, offering story starters and writing ideas to jumpstart your creative thinking. To aid in your efforts, we’ve put together a curated collection of 100 creative writing prompts. From thought-provoking scenarios to whimsical adventures, these prompts are guaranteed to jumpstart your writing, transport you to new worlds, and breathe life into your stories.

What is a writing prompt?

A writing prompt is a specific, often short, phrase, question, or statement designed to stimulate and inspire creative writing. Writing prompts can help you overcome writer’s block , generate new ideas, or simply get your creative juices flowing. You can use them in various forms of writing, including fiction, poetry, journaling, and essay writing, and they vary widely in their content and purpose. Some prompts are open-ended, encouraging writers to explore their thoughts and emotions freely, while others may be more specific, asking you to write about a particular topic or scenario.

Writing prompts serve as creative triggers, helping you to explore new story ideas , develop characters, or practice different writing styles. They can be a valuable tool for both beginners who need writing inspiration and more experienced writers looking to build a writing habit or become better writers through a regular writing practice .

100 creative writing prompts for writers

Fiction writing prompts.

Whether you’re writing adult novels or children’s books, these fiction and short story writing prompts will inspire new worlds and scenarios for your characters to play in as you write your first draft .

  • Write a modern-day fairy tale set in a bustling metropolis . Your story should feature a main character who stumbles upon a hidden, magical world within the city. Explore how this discovery changes their life and the challenges they face as they navigate between the ordinary and the extraordinary in the heart of the urban jungle.
  • Write a story in which the main character discovers a superpower , but it comes with a mysterious and unexpected side effect. Explore the challenges they face in harnessing their newfound ability while dealing with the consequences of the side effect. How do they adapt and ultimately use their power for good or ill?
  • Imagine you stumble upon an ancient, dusty time traveler’s journal in an antique shop. As you flip through its pages, you realize it contains detailed accounts of the past, present, and future. Write a story about the discoveries you make within the journal and how they shape your life and decisions.
  • In a post-apocalyptic society, a group of survivors discover a hidden library containing books from every era. Describe their journey to preserve knowledge, as they grapple not only with the challenge of safeguarding these precious texts but also with the moral dilemmas and conflicts that arise when they must decide who has access to this invaluable resource in a world defined by scarcity.
  • In a world where people’s dreams become real, a person with chronic nightmares suddenly possesses unimaginable power , forcing them to confront the fine line between their inner demons and the extraordinary possibilities that now lie at their fingertips.
  • Write a story set in a future where civilians can take vacations to outer space . Describe the adventures, challenges, and experiences of a family or group of friends as they embark on a journey beyond the earth’s atmosphere for the first time.
  • Craft a science fiction tale set in a world where technology has reached unimaginable heights , but human emotions and relationships remain unchanged. Explore how advanced AI, virtual reality, and futuristic inventions impact the characters’ lives, love, and the essence of what it means to be human.
  • Write a story that begins with a group of childhood friends building a secret treehouse in the woods. Years later, they reunite as adults to discover that their beloved hideaway holds a mysterious and enchanting secret that will change their lives forever.
  • Write a story set in a small American town during the 1950s, capturing the essence of post-war America and the lives of its diverse residents as they navigate love, ambition, and the pursuit of the American Dream.
  • Imagine a future where Earth faces an impending catastrophic event, and humanity has initiated a mission to colonize a distant planet . Write a story from the perspective of one astronaut on this interstellar journey, capturing the emotions, challenges, and sense of hope as they leave behind their home planet and embark on a journey into the unknown.
  • Your favorite book has always been a cherished escape, but one day, as you open its pages, you find yourself transported into the world within . Write a story about your adventures in the world of your favorite book, exploring the characters, places, and challenges you encounter along the way.
  • Imagine a world where everyone knows the exact date of their last day on Earth . Write a story about a person living through their last day, exploring how they choose to spend it and the emotions, reflections, and last moments they experience as they prepare to say their farewells.
  • Set your story in a future where a society of advanced learners, equipped with a unique ability to acquire new skills and knowledge rapidly , faces a mysterious threat. Write about their quest to unravel the enigma, the extraordinary challenges they encounter, and how their insatiable thirst for learning becomes their greatest asset in this high-stakes adventure.
  • Write a story in which each chapter shifts between the first-person point of view of two characters who have drastically different perspectives on the same events. Explore how their contrasting viewpoints shape the narrative and challenge the reader’s understanding of the story’s central conflict.
  • Imagine a world where gods exist but are not all-powerful . Write a story about a god who, despite their divine status, faces a unique and formidable challenge that forces them to confront their limitations and question the very nature of godhood.
  • Write a story set in a world where time travel is possible but limited to a single day . Describe the adventures and dilemmas of a character who can only revisit or change events in their life within the confines of that single day. What choices do they make, and how does it impact their future and the world around them?
  • In a near-future world, video games have evolved to become the primary form of communication and competition . Write a story where a skilled gamer is recruited for a high-stakes mission within a virtual reality game, blurring the lines between the digital and physical worlds. Explore the challenges, alliances, and ethical dilemmas they face as they navigate this immersive and unpredictable gaming landscape.
  • Imagine a writer who discovers an ancient, enchanted book that can bring its characters to life and grant them free will. Write a new story in which the writer and the characters they create must work together to navigate the challenges and consequences of their shared existence, blurring the lines between creator and creation.
  • Imagine a character whose favorite things are slowly disappearing from their life one by one . Write a story about their journey to hold on to the essence of what they love most, the challenges they face in preserving their cherished favorites, and the unexpected discoveries they make along the way.
  • Two strangers find themselves washed ashore on a deserted island after a shipwreck . They have no memory of their past lives and must work together to survive. Write a story about their journey of discovery, resilience, and the bond that forms as they navigate the challenges of the deserted island.
  • Your favorite holiday has always been a time of joy and celebration, but this year, it’s under threat of cancellation. Write a story about the determined efforts of a group of individuals who come together to save and rekindle the spirit of their favorite holiday , facing unexpected challenges and finding new meaning in the process.
  • Write a story set in a quaint English village, where an eccentric resident claims to have discovered a hidden portal to another dimension in their garden shed . As rumors spread and curiosity grows, explore the adventures and mysteries that unfold when the villagers decide to investigate this bizarre claim and step into the unknown.
  • Your favorite Tumblr blog suddenly starts posting cryptic messages that seem to predict events in your life . Write a story about the growing intrigue and obsession as you try to uncover the identity of the blog’s enigmatic author and the source of their uncanny knowledge.
  • Your favorite season has always been winter, but this year, it never ends . Write a story about the challenges, wonders, and unexpected consequences that arise as your world becomes perpetually blanketed in snow and ice, and you must navigate the eternal winter that now defines your life.
  • Write a story about a high school student who stumbles upon a mysterious diary hidden in the school library . The diary seems to contain entries from a former student who experienced extraordinary and supernatural events during their time at the school. As the current student reads the diary, they begin to notice strange occurrences happening around them, blurring the line between reality and the paranormal.

Nonfiction writing prompts

Here’s a selection of nonfiction writing prompts to help you delve into your own experiences , share your expertise, and craft powerful narratives rooted in the world around us.

  • Explore the concept of “utopia” and “dystopia.” Write an analytical essay comparing and contrasting two fictional utopian or dystopian worlds from literature, film, or popular culture, and discuss their societal ideals, flaws, and relevance to contemporary society.
  • Consider a unique or unusual skill or hobby you possess , such as extreme knitting or competitive tree climbing. Write a how-to guide or tutorial that explains the fundamentals and intricacies of this skill, offering practical advice and personal anecdotes to inspire others to explore it.
  • Take a nature walk or visit a local park, and choose a specific tree as your subject . Write a detailed and poetic nature essay that describes the tree’s appearance, its role in the ecosystem, and the stories it could tell if it could speak.
  • Choose an everyday object that holds special significance to you , such as a childhood toy or a family heirloom. Write a detailed essay exploring the memories, emotions, and stories connected to this object, and how it has shaped your identity.
  • Imagine you have the opportunity to interview your future self 10 years from now . Draft a list of thought-provoking questions you would ask to gain insights into your future experiences, decisions, and reflections.
  • Select a word from a language other than your own that encapsulates a feeling or concept you find intriguing but that has no direct translation in your language. Write an essay exploring the word’s meaning, cultural context, and the emotions it evokes, reflecting on the beauty of language and its ability to convey complex ideas.
  • Imagine you are given the chance to host a dinner party with five historical figures , living or deceased, from any time period. Create a detailed guest list, describe the menu, and write an essay outlining the topics of conversation you would explore with your eclectic group of guests.
  • Write a personal essay about a specific sound or noise that holds deep meaning to you . Explain why this sound resonates with you, its significance in your life, and the emotions or memories it triggers.
  • Consider a peculiar or unusual museum exhibit you’ve encountered or would like to visit . Write an engaging review or critique of the exhibit, examining its historical, artistic, or cultural value, and sharing your insights and reactions as a visitor.
  • Think about an unsolved mystery, conspiracy theory, or urban legend that has always intrigued you . Write an investigative essay delving into the facts, theories, and speculations surrounding this enigma, presenting your own analysis and conclusions.
  • Explore the concept of “lost cities” or “hidden civilizations.” Write an investigative essay about a real or legendary lost city, such as Atlantis, discussing the historical evidence, theories, and mysteries surrounding its existence and disappearance.
  • Imagine you have the ability to witness and document a day in the life of a famous historical figure or celebrity of your choice. Write a detailed and immersive diary entry that captures their experiences, thoughts, and emotions on this hypothetical day.
  • Reflect on the idea of “space tourism” becoming a reality in the near future . Write an opinion piece discussing the ethical, environmental, and cultural implications of commercial space travel and colonization.
  • Select an everyday object or phenomenon, such as rain, a traffic light, or a pencil , and write an in-depth exploration of its history, evolution, and societal impact. Share surprising facts and anecdotes that shed new light on this seemingly ordinary subject.
  • Write an i n-depth profile of a local unsung hero or community leader who has made a significant impact on your town or neighborhood. Share their story, accomplishments, and the lasting effects of their work.
  • Explore the concept of “found family.” Write a personal essay reflecting on the importance of the friendships and relationships you’ve built with individuals who may not be biologically related but have become like family to you.
  • Consider the phenomenon of life hacks and practical tips shared on the internet. Write a guide or compilation of your favorite life hacks, along with personal anecdotes of how they’ve improved your daily life.
  • Reflect on the concept of digital nostalgia. Write an essay about the emotional connections people form with digital content, such as video games, social media, or online communities, and how it shapes their sense of identity and belonging.
  • Explore the world of extreme sports or unconventional hobbies. Write a feature article about individuals who engage in activities like base jumping, extreme ironing, or underwater pumpkin carving, and delve into their motivations and experiences.
  • Imagine you have the opportunity to curate an art exhibition featuring the work of artists from different time periods and backgrounds . Describe the themes, connections, and narratives that tie these diverse artworks together.
  • Write a reflective essay about your personal journey with mental health , highlighting a specific turning point or moment of insight that led to a deeper understanding of your own well-being. Discuss the strategies, resources, or support systems that have helped you on this path and how your experience might offer inspiration or guidance to others facing similar challenges.
  • Explore the cultural and personal significance of your favorite food . Write an essay that delves into the history, traditions, and memories associated with this dish, and how it has become a symbol of comfort, celebration, or connection in your life.
  • Create a comprehensive FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) document for your own life , highlighting the questions people often ask you about your experiences, beliefs, or expertise. Write detailed and thoughtful responses to these questions, providing insights into your unique perspective and experiences. Reflect on how compiling this FAQ helps you understand the common themes and curiosities that surround your life and the impact they have on your relationships and identity.
  • Explore the concept of “first days” in human history . Write a historical analysis that delves into the pivotal first days of significant events, discoveries, or eras, such as the first day humans walked on the moon, the first day of the Industrial Revolution, or the first day a groundbreaking scientific theory was proposed.
  • Imagine you have the ability to observe and document the everyday life of an individual from a completely different culture or time period. Write a descriptive essay that vividly portrays the daily rituals, customs, and experiences of this person, highlighting the contrasts and similarities between their everyday life and your own.

Journal prompts

These prompts are designed to encourage self-discovery, mindfulness, and the art of capturing the essence of your life’s moments on paper. Use them for directed journaling or as part of your Morning Pages practice .

  • Choose an object in your immediate environment, such as a book, a plant, or a piece of artwork. Write a journal entry from the perspective of that object , describing its history, observations, and the emotions it might feel as it silently witnesses your life.
  • Create a gratitude journal entry in the form of a letter to your past self, expressing appreciation for the experiences, challenges, and lessons that have shaped you into the person you are today. Reflect on how these past moments have contributed to your growth.
  • Imagine you’re given the opportunity to have a conversation with your future self 20 years from now . Write a journal entry in which you ask your future self three questions about your life, dreams, and accomplishments, and then respond as you believe your future self would.
  • Imagine you have a “time capsule” journal in which you can write messages to your future descendants . Write a journal entry addressing your great-great-grandchildren, sharing personal stories, values, and advice you would want them to know about your life and the world you lived in.
  • Write a journal entry as if you were a detective or investigator documenting your own life’s mysteries and unsolved questions . Explore the enigmas, unanswered questions, or unresolved situations you’ve encountered, and brainstorm potential solutions or paths for exploration.
  • Create a reverse bucket list in your journal —a list of experiences, achievements, and moments from your life that you’re proud of and grateful for. Reflect on each item and the significance it holds for you.
  • Write a journal entry as if you were a traveler from the future, visiting the present day . Describe your observations of contemporary life, technology, culture, and the changes that have occurred since your time.
  • Imagine you possess a magic journal that can answer any question you pose to it . Write a series of questions about life, the universe, or personal dilemmas, and then provide detailed answers as if the journal responded.
  • Select a word from a foreign language that has no direct translation in your native language. Write a journal entry exploring the word’s meaning, cultural context, and the emotions or concepts it represents. Reflect on how this word might enrich your understanding of life.
  • Create a journal entry capturing your ideal day from start to finish . Describe the perfect morning routine, activities, interactions, and moments of joy you would like to experience. Reflect on what elements of this ideal day you can incorporate into your current life.
  • Imagine you have a “memory map” in your mind that marks the locations of significant moments from your life . Write a journal entry where you choose a location on this map and describe the memories associated with it, delving into the emotions, people, and events that make it special.
  • Write a journal entry from the perspective of your favorite fictional character . Imagine their thoughts, experiences, and feelings in a specific moment from their story, and explore how their perspective might differ from your own.
  • Create a “ soundtrack of your life” journal entry . List songs or pieces of music that have been significant at different stages of your life, and describe the memories and emotions each song evokes.
  • Imagine you have the ability to visit parallel universes and experience different versions of your life . Write a journal entry about a day in the life of an alternate “you” in a parallel universe, describing the choices and outcomes that diverged from your current reality.
  • Reflect on the idea of “unfinished stories” in your life —those moments or relationships that you wish you could revisit or complete. Write a journal entry exploring these unfinished stories and consider what closure or resolution might mean to you.
  • Reflect on a cherished memory with your best friend that you haven’t shared before . Write a journal entry describing the moment—the sights, sounds, and emotions that made it special. Consider how this memory has shaped your friendship and what it reveals about the unique bond you share.
  • Choose a family member whose life story or experiences you find intriguing . Write a journal entry where you explore their perspective, challenges, and defining moments from their point of view. Consider how understanding their journey can deepen your connection and appreciation for the complexities of family dynamics.
  • Imagine your favorite place, whether it’s a bustling city square, a tranquil beach, or a cozy corner of your home . Write a journal entry that transports yourself and your readers to this cherished spot. Describe the sights, sounds, and sensations that make it your favorite place, and reflect on why it holds such a special space in your heart.
  • Select a random word from a dictionary and let it guide your journal entry today. Write about the first memories, emotions, or thoughts that come to mind when you encounter this word. Explore its connections to your life, experiences, or the world around you, and see where this unexpected word takes your reflections.
  • Recall your earliest memory, no matter how faint or fragmentary it may be. Write a journal entry that delves into the details of this memory—what you saw, felt, or experienced. Reflect on how this seemingly distant moment may have shaped your perceptions, fears, or interests as you grew older, and consider what hidden treasures might lie within your earliest recollections.
  • Think about your favorite story from childhood , whether it’s a fairy tale, a classic novel, or a bedtime fable. Write a journal entry that explores why this particular story resonated with you so deeply and how its themes, characters, or lessons continue to influence your life and perspective.
  • Imagine planning the ultimate road trip of a lifetime with no constraints or limitations. Write a journal entry detailing the destinations you would visit, the people you’d travel with (or not), and the experiences you’d seek along the way.
  • Describe a recent dream or vivid daydream in detail. Dive into the symbolism, emotions, and hidden meanings behind the dream’s elements. Consider how this dream might relate to your current thoughts, fears, or aspirations.
  • Reflect on a memorable encounter with a stranger that left a lasting impression on you . Write a journal entry describing the details of this encounter, the emotions it stirred, and any insights or lessons you gained from the brief connection.
  • Create a life garden in your journal, where each flower or plant represents a person, experience, or aspect of your life . Write a journal entry about the state of your life garden—which plants are thriving, which need nurturing, and the symbolic meaning behind each one.

Fun writing prompts

Here are some fun writing prompts that will take you on whimsical journeys, tickle your funny bone, and remind you that writing can be as joyful as it is expressive.

  • Write a story where the characters have the ability to swap bodies with one another, but they can only do it for one day. Explore the humorous and chaotic situations that arise as they navigate each other’s lives and personalities.
  • Imagine a world where all forms of transportation, from bicycles to rocket ships, are powered by something unexpected , like laughter, music, or compliments. Write a whimsical tale set in this world, where the power of positive emotions fuels extraordinary journeys.
  • Write a dialogue between a superhero and their arch-nemesis as they meet for coffee on their day off. Explore the dynamics of their relationship when they’re not in the midst of battling each other and consider the unexpected topics they might discuss.
  • Create a story set in a magical library where the books come to life at night . Write about the adventures of the librarian and their bookish companions as they go on quests within the pages of the books, encountering characters and worlds from classic literature.
  • Imagine a future where humans can communicate with animals through a universal translator . Write a humorous narrative from the perspective of a pet who has overheard some surprising conversations and secrets among their human family members.
  • Write a story set in a world where time moves backward for one hour each day . Explore the consequences and comedic situations that arise as people try to navigate a daily rewind hour.
  • Imagine a future where robots have taken over mundane household tasks, but they’ve also developed quirky personalities . Write a series of humorous vignettes about the misadventures of a family and their eccentric robot helpers.
  • Create a story where the characters discover a magical paintbrush that brings anything they draw to life . Explore the imaginative creations and unexpected challenges that arise as they wield this extraordinary tool.
  • Write a dialogue between a famous historical figure and a modern-day teenager who accidentally time-traveled to the past. Explore the clash of perspectives, cultural differences, and humorous misunderstandings that occur during their conversation.
  • Imagine a world where dreams are physical objects that can be collected, traded, and even stolen. Write a thrilling heist story where a group of dream thieves plans to steal the most valuable dream ever recorded.
  • Write a story in which the main character has a time-traveling pet —a dog or cat that can transport them to different time periods by touching specific objects. Explore the adventures and challenges they face together as they navigate history.
  • Imagine a world where everyone’s dreams become real, but only for 24 hours. Write about the chaos and hilarity that ensue as people try to make the most of their dream days. What unusual dreams and desires come to life?
  • Create a story set in a town where every resident has a superpower, but each power comes with an unusual and often comical drawback . Explore the everyday challenges and humorous situations that arise in this extraordinary community.
  • Write a tale about a character who discovers a magic book that allows them to rewrite one event from their past. Explore the consequences, both intended and unintended, of altering a pivotal moment in their life.
  • Imagine a reality where technology allows people to swap personalities for a day. Write a story about two individuals who decide to exchange lives, exploring the comedic and thought-provoking results of their temporary personality swap.
  • Write a story set in a world where every time someone tells a lie, a colorful tattoo appears on their skin, revealing the nature of the falsehood. Explore the adventures and misadventures of a charismatic con artist in this truth-telling society.
  • Imagine a reality where people can communicate with objects, from talking to their toaster to negotiating with their car. Write a humorous tale about the challenges and comedic situations that arise when inanimate objects have opinions and demands.
  • Create a story about a group of time-traveling tourists who accidentally land in a pivotal historical event. How do they handle being unexpected witnesses to history, and what comical twists and turns result from their presence?
  • Write a narrative in which a group of misfit superheroes forms a support group to discuss their quirky and seemingly useless powers. Explore their camaraderie and how they come together to solve a surprisingly mundane problem.
  • Imagine a town where each day is themed differently , from “Pirate Day” to “Outer Space Day.” Write a day-in-the-life story of a resident navigating the zany challenges and adventures that come with living in a town of perpetual themed days.
  • Write a story in which a middle school’s annual talent show becomes a time-traveling extravaganza . Students’ talents inadvertently transport them to different historical eras. Describe the hilarious and surprising adventures as they try to make their way back to the present, using their unique talents to navigate history.
  • Imagine attending a summer camp where everything is topsy-turvy! Campers become the counselors, and counselors become campers. Write a story about the humorous and unexpected challenges, pranks, and adventures that unfold when kids are in charge of running the camp, from organizing activities to dealing with the chaos that ensues.
  • Create a story about an unusual camping trip where the characters discover their campsite is a portal to a fantasy realm . Write about the magical creatures, enchanted forests, and unexpected challenges they encounter while trying to enjoy a traditional camping experience with a fantastical twist.
  • Write a story about a quirky character who believes they have the power to predict when things will happen for the last time . Explore the humorous and imaginative ways in which they navigate everyday life, from savoring last time moments like the last scoop of ice cream in the tub to the last raindrop before a storm.
  • Imagine a world where the word “finish” holds the power to complete any task or goal instantly. Write a story about a protagonist who stumbles upon this word’s magical ability and the humorous and unexpected situations that unfold as they navigate life with the ultimate shortcut at their disposal.

(You can also download this prompts list as a printable pdf sheet and sign up to the Wordling’s weekly newsletter for more writing and publishing tips.)

FREE RESOURCE:

MASTERCLASS: The $100K Blueprint for Multipassionate Writers

In this masterclass, I’m going to give you  a step-by-step strategy  to build multiple sources of income with your creative work in less than a year. 

If you’ve been told you need to focus on  one thing  in order to succeed, this class will be an eye-opener.  Watch it here.

creative writing ideas topics

Natasha Khullar Relph

Founder and Editor, The Wordling

Natasha Khullar Relph is an award-winning journalist and author with bylines in  The New York Times, TIME CNN, BBC, ABC News, Ms. Marie Claire, Vogue,  and more. She is the founder of  The Wordling , a weekly business newsletter for journalists, authors, and content creators. Natasha has  mentored over 1,000 writers , helping them break into dream publications and build six-figure careers. She is the author of  Shut Up and Write: The No-Nonsense, No B.S. Guide to Getting Words on the Page  and  several other books .

Sign up for The Wordling

Writing trends, advice, and industry news. Delivered with a cheeky twist to your Inbox weekly, for free.

Writing Beginner

2,500 Writing Prompts to Ignite Your Creativity

Grab your pen, stretch those fingers, and get ready to unleash your creativity.

We’ve assembled a collection of writing prompts that range from wild adventures to deep reflections. Whether you’re writing for fun, working on your next masterpiece, or just looking for a quick creative boost, these prompts will give you the inspiration you need.

Writing Prompts for Adults

Writer on laptop amidst scenes from various writing prompts

Table of Contents

Sometimes, grown-ups need a little nudge to get the words flowing. These prompts are perfect for adult writers looking to explore deeper themes or simply enjoy the act of writing.

  • Write about a secret you’ve kept for years.
  • Imagine you meet your childhood self—what advice do you give?
  • Describe the last time you felt completely at peace.
  • Write about a time you questioned your beliefs.
  • Explore the concept of home—what does it mean to you?
  • Write a letter to someone who has wronged you.
  • Imagine a world where lying is impossible. How would society change?
  • Describe your perfect day from start to finish.
  • Write about a moment that changed your life forever.
  • What would you do if you knew you only had a year to live?
  • Talk about a time when you had to make a tough call.
  • Imagine you’re a detective. What’s the most bizarre case you’ve solved?
  • Write about the relationship that has taught you the most.
  • What does success mean to you? Has that definition changed over time?
  • Imagine you wake up one day with a superpower—what is it, and how do you use it?
  • Describe a place you’ve never been but feel drawn to.
  • Write about a time you were completely honest, even though it was difficult.
  • Explore the concept of fate—do you believe in it?
  • Imagine you could relive one day of your life—what would it be, and why?
  • Write about a time when you felt completely out of control.
  • What’s something you’ve always wanted to do but haven’t yet? Why?
  • Pen a note to your future self, five years down the road.
  • Reflect on someone who has had a major impact on your personal journey.
  • Imagine you could speak to your ancestors—what would you ask them?
  • Write about a time you had to confront a fear.
  • What would you do if you found out you had a twin you never knew about?
  • Describe the most beautiful place you’ve ever seen.
  • Write about a time when you felt truly alone.
  • Imagine you’re given the chance to start your life over—what would you do differently?
  • Describe a moment when you felt a strong connection to someone or something.
  • What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned in life so far?
  • Imagine a world where money doesn’t exist—how would you live?
  • Write about a time when you felt completely free.
  • What’s something you wish you could change about yourself?
  • Share a moment when you had to part ways with someone or something meaningful.
  • Imagine you’re given a second chance at something—what is it, and how do you approach it differently?
  • Write about a time when you felt misunderstood.
  • What’s something you wish more people got about who you are?
  • Imagine you’re in a room with your biggest fear—how do you react?
  • Write about a time when you had to be brave.
  • What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
  • Describe a time when you felt truly content.
  • Imagine you’re the last person on Earth—what do you do?
  • Write about a time when you had to let go of something or someone.
  • What’s something you’ve learned to accept about yourself?
  • Imagine you’re on a road trip—where are you going, and who are you with?
  • Write about a time when you had to make a sacrifice.
  • What’s a topic or hobby you’ve always been interested in but haven’t pursued?
  • Describe a time when you felt like you belonged.
  • Imagine you’re given the chance to meet anyone from history—who do you choose, and why?

Cool Writing Prompts

These prompts are for those who want to write something with a bit of edge. They’re designed to inspire cool, creative, and out-of-the-box thinking.

  • Write about a world where everyone has a unique superpower, but only one person can have it at a time.
  • Imagine you discover a new color—how do you describe it, and what does it symbolize?
  • Write about a heist gone wrong in the most unexpected way.
  • Describe a society where everyone communicates through music.
  • Imagine you’re a ghost haunting a modern-day city—what’s your unfinished business?
  • Write about a futuristic city built on the clouds.
  • Describe a fashion trend that becomes dangerously popular.
  • Imagine you find a notebook that predicts the future—what do you do with it?
  • Write about a world where emotions are sold as commodities.
  • Describe a scenario where technology allows people to swap bodies.
  • Imagine you’re an inventor in the year 2100—what’s your most groundbreaking invention?
  • Write about a secret society with a surprising mission.
  • Describe a reality show with a twist that no one saw coming.
  • Imagine you’re a hacker who uncovers the biggest secret in the world.
  • Write about a world where people can travel into their dreams.
  • Describe a superhero who doesn’t want to save the world.
  • Imagine you’re a time traveler stuck in a loop—how do you break free?
  • Write about a world where animals can talk, but only to a chosen few.
  • Describe a conspiracy theory that turns out to be true.
  • Imagine you’re a detective who solves crimes using virtual reality.
  • Write about a world where everyone has a digital twin.
  • Describe a futuristic sport that becomes the most popular event on the planet.
  • Imagine you’re an astronaut who discovers something unbelievable on Mars.
  • Write about a musician who can literally change the world with their songs.
  • Describe a world where dreams are a form of currency.
  • Imagine you’re a spy with the ability to change your appearance at will.
  • Write about a society where art is forbidden, but a group of rebels keeps it alive.
  • Describe a world where books are banned, and only oral storytelling remains.
  • Imagine you’re a scientist who discovers a parallel universe—what’s it like?
  • Write about a world where memories can be bought and sold.
  • Describe a city where every building has a mind of its own.
  • Imagine you’re a writer whose stories come to life.
  • Write about a world where people are born with the knowledge of their death date.
  • Describe a mysterious island that appears on no maps.
  • Imagine you’re a pilot flying the first spaceship to another galaxy.
  • Write about a world where everyone’s life is a reality show without their knowledge.
  • Describe a technology that allows people to live in a virtual paradise.
  • Imagine you’re a journalist uncovering the story of the century in a dystopian world.
  • Write about a city where the weather is controlled by a secret organization.
  • Describe a society where everyone wears masks, and no one knows why.
  • Imagine you’re an artist who can paint the future.
  • Write about a world where robots have emotions and demand equal rights.
  • Describe a world where humans and aliens coexist peacefully—until a shocking event changes everything.
  • Imagine you’re a bounty hunter tracking down the most dangerous criminal in the galaxy.
  • Write about a world where people can live forever, but at a cost.
  • Describe a society where everyone’s life is controlled by a single corporation.
  • Imagine you’re a scientist who discovers a way to bring extinct species back to life.
  • Write about a world where people can communicate with the dead.
  • Describe a mysterious artifact that holds the key to humanity’s future.
  • Imagine you’re a detective solving crimes in a world where everyone has a unique ability.

Opinion Writing Prompts

Opinions can be powerful, and these prompts are designed to get you thinking critically and expressing your unique point of view on a variety of topics.

  • Should schools prioritize creativity over standardized testing? Why or why not?
  • Is social media doing more harm than good? Defend your position.
  • Should governments regulate the use of artificial intelligence? Explain your reasoning.
  • What’s more important: privacy or security? Why?
  • Do celebrities have a responsibility to be role models? Share your thoughts.
  • Should college education be free for everyone? Argue your stance.
  • Is climate change the most pressing issue of our time? Why or why not?
  • Should people be allowed to own exotic pets? Discuss the pros and cons.
  • Is the current education system outdated? Explain your view.
  • Should art be separated from the artist’s personal life? Why or why not?
  • Is it ethical to use animals in scientific research? Defend your opinion.
  • Should voting be mandatory? Argue your position.
  • Is online dating changing relationships for better or worse? Explain.
  • Should there be limits on free speech? Why or why not?
  • Is the death penalty an effective deterrent? Share your thoughts.
  • Should athletes be paid as much as they are? Defend your stance.
  • Is technology making us more or less connected? Why?
  • Should the government control the media? Argue your point.
  • Is space exploration worth the investment? Explain your reasoning.
  • Should people be allowed to genetically modify their children? Discuss the ethics.
  • Is capitalism the best economic system? Why or why not?
  • Should the voting age be lowered? Defend your position.
  • Is it better to live in a small town or a big city? Explain your choice.
  • Should the use of plastic be banned? Argue your point of view.
  • Is it better to be honest or kind? Discuss the balance between the two.
  • Should the government provide universal basic income? Defend your opinion.
  • Is censorship ever justified? Explain your reasoning.
  • Should the rich be taxed more heavily? Share your thoughts.
  • Is digital privacy a basic human right? Argue your stance.
  • Should schools teach financial literacy? Explain why or why not.
  • Is war ever justified? Discuss your perspective.
  • Should healthcare be considered a human right? Defend your position.
  • Is the pursuit of happiness a realistic goal? Explain your view.
  • Should public transportation be free? Argue your stance.
  • Is it better to be feared or loved as a leader? Discuss your thoughts.
  • Should people have the right to die with dignity? Explain your reasoning.
  • Is nationalism a positive or negative force? Share your opinion.
  • Should parents be held accountable for their children’s actions? Defend your position.
  • Is the internet making us smarter or dumber? Explain your perspective.
  • Should the government intervene in the economy? Argue your point of view.
  • Is art a necessary part of society? Defend your stance.
  • Should the use of drones in warfare be banned? Share your opinion.
  • Is the American Dream still achievable? Discuss your thoughts.
  • Should companies be responsible for their employees’ mental health? Argue your stance.
  • Is it better to be an optimist or a realist? Explain your reasoning.
  • Should social media platforms be responsible for the content they host? Defend your position.
  • Is fame worth the price? Share your thoughts.
  • Should there be a universal language? Argue your point of view.
  • Is it better to follow your passion or pursue a stable career? Explain your choice.
  • Should history be rewritten to reflect modern values? Discuss your perspective.

Writing Prompts for College

College is a time of exploration, both academically and personally. These prompts are designed to challenge college students to think critically, creatively, and reflectively.

  • Write about a time when you challenged your own beliefs. What happened?
  • Describe your ideal career and how you plan to achieve it.
  • What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned in college so far?
  • Imagine you could go back in time and give your freshman self one piece of advice—what would it be?
  • Write about a moment in your life when you felt like you were on the right path.
  • Describe a time when you had to make a difficult decision—how did you handle it?
  • What does success look like to you? Has that definition changed over time?
  • Imagine you’re giving a TED Talk—what’s your topic, and why?
  • Write about a time when you failed at something—what did you learn from it?
  • Describe your biggest academic challenge and how you overcame it.
  • What’s one thing you wish more people understood about you?
  • Imagine you’re a professor for a day—what’s your lecture about?
  • Write about a time when you had to stand up for something you believed in.
  • Describe a situation where you had to step outside your comfort zone.
  • What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received in college? How has it impacted you?
  • Imagine you could redesign your college experience—what would you change?
  • Write about a time when you had to balance multiple responsibilities—how did you manage?
  • Describe a moment when you felt truly inspired—what sparked that inspiration?
  • What’s something you’ve learned outside of the classroom that has had a significant impact on you?
  • Imagine you could spend a semester studying anything, anywhere—what would you choose, and why?
  • Write about a time when you had to overcome a significant obstacle—what did you learn?
  • Describe a moment when you felt proud of yourself—what led to that feeling?
  • What’s something you wish you had done differently in college? Why?
  • Imagine you’re writing a letter to your future self—what do you say?
  • Write about a time when you had to collaborate with others—how did you handle it?
  • Describe your biggest personal growth during college—what caused it?
  • What’s one thing you hope to accomplish before you graduate? How will you do it?
  • Imagine you’re starting your own college—what’s the focus, and why?
  • Write about a time when you had to deal with failure—how did it shape you?
  • Describe a moment when you felt truly understood—who was involved, and what happened?
  • What’s the most challenging course you’ve taken in college? How did you get through it?
  • Imagine you could change one thing about the world—what would it be, and why?
  • Write about a time when you had to make a tough decision—how did it affect you?
  • Describe a situation where you had to be a leader—how did you approach it?
  • What’s one thing you’ve learned in college that has changed your perspective?
  • Imagine you’re writing a commencement speech—what’s your message to the graduates?
  • Write about a time when you felt lost—how did you find your way back?
  • Describe a moment when you felt truly grateful—what were the circumstances?
  • What’s something you wish you had known before starting college? Why?
  • Imagine you could meet any historical figure—who would it be, and what would you discuss?
  • Write about a time when you had to adapt to a new situation—how did you manage?
  • Describe a moment when you felt like giving up—what kept you going?
  • What’s the most important skill you’ve developed in college? How do you plan to use it?
  • Imagine you’re writing a memoir—what’s the title, and what’s the central theme?
  • Write about a time when you had to confront a difficult truth—how did you handle it?
  • Describe your biggest accomplishment in college so far—how did it come about?
  • What’s something you’re passionate about, and how do you incorporate it into your life?
  • Imagine you could study abroad—where would you go, and why?
  • Write about a time when you had to navigate a complex situation—how did you approach it?
  • Describe a moment when you felt truly content—what contributed to that feeling?

Writing Prompts for High School

High school is a time of growth, discovery, and learning who you are.

These prompts are designed to help high school students explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences in creative ways.

  • Write about a time when you had to make a difficult choice between two friends.
  • Describe a moment when you felt truly proud of yourself—what led up to that?
  • Imagine you’re given the chance to live in any time period—when do you choose, and why?
  • Write about a time when you were surprised by someone’s kindness.
  • Describe a situation where you had to stand up for something you believed in.
  • What’s one thing you’ve learned in high school that you think will stick with you for life?
  • Imagine you’re writing a letter to your future self—what advice would you give?
  • Write about a time when you felt out of place—how did you handle it?
  • Describe your biggest challenge in high school so far—how did you overcome it?
  • What’s something you wish adults understood about being a teenager today?
  • Imagine you could swap lives with anyone for a day—who do you choose, and why?
  • Write about a moment when you realized you had changed in some way.
  • Describe a time when you were really scared—what happened?
  • What’s something you’ve learned about yourself in high school that surprised you?
  • Imagine you’re creating your own high school—what would you do differently?
  • Write about a time when you had to work with a group to achieve something—how did it go?
  • Describe a person who has had a significant impact on your life—how have they influenced you?
  • What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned from a mistake?
  • Imagine you could travel anywhere in the world—where would you go, and why?
  • Write about a time when you felt like an outsider—how did you deal with it?
  • Describe your dream job—what makes it appealing to you?
  • What’s one thing you wish you could change about your high school experience?
  • Imagine you could talk to your past self—what would you say?
  • Write about a time when you felt like you didn’t belong—how did you cope?
  • Describe your favorite high school memory—why is it so special to you?
  • What’s something you’re really passionate about—how do you pursue it?
  • Imagine you’re in charge of planning the perfect day—what do you do?
  • Write about a time when you had to overcome a fear—how did you do it?
  • Describe a moment when you felt truly happy—what was happening around you?
  • What’s something you’ve learned in high school that you think is valuable?
  • Imagine you’re writing a letter to a teacher who has made a difference in your life—what do you say?
  • Write about a time when you felt really disappointed—how did you handle it?
  • Describe your ideal high school—what would it be like?
  • What’s something you’re looking forward to after high school? Why?
  • Imagine you could create your own subject to study in school—what would it be, and why?
  • Write about a time when you had to deal with peer pressure—how did you respond?
  • Describe a moment when you felt really proud of something you accomplished.
  • What’s something you wish you had done differently in high school?
  • Imagine you’re giving a speech at your high school graduation—what’s your message to your classmates?
  • Write about a time when you had to apologize to someone—what happened?
  • Describe your favorite place to go when you need to think—what makes it special?
  • What’s something you’re really excited about for the future?
  • Imagine you could have any job for a day—what would it be, and why?
  • Write about a time when you learned something important outside of school.
  • Describe a moment when you felt really grateful—what were the circumstances?
  • What’s something you’ve struggled with in high school, and how have you dealt with it?
  • Imagine you could live anywhere in the world—where would you choose, and why?
  • Write about a time when you felt really nervous—how did you overcome it?
  • Describe your biggest achievement in high school so far—what did it take to get there?
  • What’s something you wish you could go back and tell your younger self?

Writing Prompts for Middle School

Middle school is full of new experiences and changes. These prompts are designed to help middle school students explore their thoughts and ideas while developing their writing skills.

  • Write about a time when you made a new friend—how did it happen?
  • Describe your favorite hobby—why do you enjoy it so much?
  • Imagine you could have any pet in the world—what would it be, and why?
  • Write about a time when you felt really proud of something you did.
  • Describe a moment when you felt really scared—what happened?
  • What’s your favorite memory from elementary school? Why is it so special?
  • Imagine you could go anywhere on vacation—where would you go, and what would you do?
  • Write about a time when you helped someone—how did it make you feel?
  • Describe your favorite book or movie—what do you like about it?
  • What’s something you’ve learned in middle school that surprised you?
  • Imagine you could be a superhero—what would your powers be, and how would you use them?
  • Write about a time when you felt really excited—what was happening?
  • Describe a person you admire—what makes them special to you?
  • What’s something you’re really good at—how did you get so good at it?
  • Imagine you could create your own video game—what would it be like?
  • Write about a time when you had to do something difficult—how did you handle it?
  • Describe your favorite subject in school—why do you like it?
  • What’s something you wish you could learn more about? Why?
  • Imagine you could live in any time period—when would it be, and why?
  • Write about a time when you felt really disappointed—what happened?
  • What’s something you’ve done that you’re really proud of?
  • Imagine you could switch places with anyone for a day—who would it be, and why?
  • Write about a time when you had to work with a team—how did it go?
  • Describe your favorite place to go when you need some time alone—what makes it special?
  • What’s something you’re looking forward to in the future? Why?
  • Imagine you could have any talent or skill—what would it be, and how would you use it?
  • Write about a time when you felt really happy—what was happening around you?
  • Describe a moment when you had to solve a problem—what did you do?
  • What’s something you’ve learned in middle school that has changed the way you think?
  • Imagine you could invent something—what would it be, and how would it work?
  • Write about a time when you had to make a tough decision—how did you make your choice?
  • Describe a person who has made a big difference in your life—what did they do?
  • What’s something you wish you could change about the world? Why?
  • Imagine you could live in any book or movie—where would you go, and what would you do?
  • Describe your favorite holiday—what makes it so special to you?
  • What’s something you’re really passionate about? How do you pursue it?
  • Imagine you could have three wishes—what would you wish for, and why?
  • Write about a time when you had to overcome a fear—what did you do?
  • Describe your favorite way to spend a weekend—what do you enjoy about it?
  • What’s something you’ve learned from a mistake? How did it help you grow?
  • Imagine you could be famous for a day—what would you do, and why?
  • Write about a time when you had to stand up for what you believe in—how did it go?
  • Describe your favorite food—why do you like it so much?
  • What’s something you’re really looking forward to? Why?
  • Imagine you could meet anyone from history—who would it be, and what would you talk about?
  • Write about a time when you felt really grateful—what were the circumstances?
  • Describe your favorite activity after school—why do you enjoy it?
  • What’s something you wish you could do differently? How would you change it?

Writing Prompts for 3rd Grade

Third graders are full of imagination and curiosity.

These prompts are designed to help them explore their creativity and develop their writing skills in a fun and engaging way.

  • Imagine you could talk to animals—what would you say to your favorite animal?
  • Write about a time when you felt really happy—what made you so happy?
  • If you could possess any superpower, what would it be and what makes you want it?
  • Describe your favorite game to play with friends—what makes it so much fun?
  • Imagine you could live in a treehouse—what would it look like?
  • Write a story about a day when everything went wrong—how did you fix it?
  • What’s your favorite thing to do at recess? Why do you enjoy it?
  • Imagine you found a magic lamp—what are your three wishes?
  • Write about your favorite holiday—what do you like most about it?
  • Describe your favorite animal—what makes it special to you?
  • If you had the chance to go anywhere, where would it be and why?
  • Write a story about a talking pet—what adventures do you have together?
  • What’s your favorite book or movie? Why do you like it?
  • Imagine you could fly—where would you go and what would you see?
  • Describe your favorite food—what do you like about it?
  • Imagine you could be any character from a book—who would you be and why?
  • Write a story about finding a secret treasure—what do you do with it?
  • What’s your favorite thing to do on the weekend? Why do you enjoy it?
  • Imagine you could invent something—what would it be and how would it work?
  • Write about a time when you were really excited—what was happening?
  • Describe your dream house—what makes it special?
  • Imagine you could create your own holiday—what would it be like?
  • Write a story about a day at the beach—what fun things do you do?
  • What’s your favorite subject in school? Why do you like it?
  • Imagine you could be invisible for a day—what would you do?
  • Write about a time when you were really proud of yourself—what did you do?
  • Describe your favorite toy—why do you like it so much?
  • Imagine you could meet a famous person—who would it be and what would you ask them?
  • Write a story about an adventure in space—what do you discover?
  • What’s your favorite thing to do with your family? Why do you enjoy it?
  • Imagine you could be a superhero—what would your powers be?
  • Write about a time when you were really brave—what happened?
  • Describe your favorite season—what do you like most about it?
  • Imagine you found a door to a magical world—what do you find on the other side?
  • Write a story about a birthday party—what fun things do you do?
  • What’s your favorite animal to see at the zoo? Why do you like it?
  • Imagine you could create a new ice cream flavor—what would it be?
  • Write about a time when you learned something new—what was it?
  • Describe your favorite place to visit—what makes it special to you?
  • Imagine you could be a famous athlete—what sport would you play?
  • Write a story about a day when your toys came to life—what do they do?
  • What’s your favorite thing to do in the summer? Why do you enjoy it?
  • Imagine you could live underwater—what would your life be like?
  • Write about a time when you did something kind for someone—what happened?
  • Describe your favorite thing to draw or paint—why do you like it?
  • Imagine you could be the teacher for a day—what would you teach?
  • Write a story about a mystery you have to solve—how do you figure it out?
  • What’s your favorite thing about school? Why do you like it?

Writing Prompts for 4th Grade

Fourth graders are beginning to develop more complex thoughts and ideas.

These prompts are designed to encourage them to explore their creativity and express their growing understanding of the world.

  • Imagine you could travel back in time—where would you go and what would you do?
  • Write about a time when you felt really proud of something you accomplished.
  • If you could create your own video game, what would it be like?
  • Describe your favorite place in nature—what makes it special to you?
  • Write a story about a day when you became a superhero—what powers do you have?
  • What’s your favorite thing to do with your friends? Why do you enjoy it?
  • Imagine you could meet any historical figure—who would it be and why?
  • Write about a time when you had to work really hard to achieve something.
  • Describe your favorite book—what do you like most about it?
  • Imagine you could invent something to help people—what would it be and how would it work?
  • Write a story about finding a hidden world—what do you discover there?
  • Imagine you could be an animal for a day—what animal would you choose and why?
  • Write about a time when you had to make a tough decision—how did you handle it?
  • Describe your dream vacation—where would you go and what would you do?
  • Imagine you could be invisible for a day—what would you do with this power?
  • Write a story about a mysterious object you find—what is it and what does it do?
  • What’s your favorite way to spend a rainy day? Why do you enjoy it?
  • Imagine you could create your own country—what would it be like?
  • Write about a time when you were really excited about something—what happened?
  • Describe your favorite holiday tradition—why is it special to you?
  • Imagine you could talk to your favorite character from a book or movie—what would you say?
  • Write a story about an adventure in the jungle—what challenges do you face?
  • What’s your favorite thing to do on the weekends? Why do you like it?
  • Imagine you could have any job in the world—what would it be and why?
  • Write about a time when you felt really scared—what happened and how did you overcome it?
  • Describe your perfect day—what would you do from start to finish?
  • Imagine you could visit another planet—what would it be like?
  • Write a story about a treasure hunt—what do you find at the end?
  • What’s your favorite thing to eat? Why do you like it so much?
  • Imagine you could switch places with someone for a day—who would it be and why?
  • Write about a time when you had to solve a problem—how did you do it?
  • Describe your favorite hobby—why do you enjoy it?
  • Imagine you could be a famous artist—what kind of art would you create?
  • Write a story about a magical tree—what powers does it have?
  • Imagine you could live in a castle—what would your life be like?
  • Write about a time when you did something kind for someone—how did it make you feel?
  • Describe your favorite memory from when you were younger—what makes it special?
  • Imagine you could speak any language—what would you do with this ability?
  • What’s your favorite season? Why do you like it?
  • Imagine you could create your own superhero team—who would be on it and what would they do?
  • Write about a time when you learned something new—how did it change you?
  • Describe your favorite thing to do with your family—why is it special to you?
  • Imagine you could visit any place in the world—where would you go and why?
  • What’s your favorite thing to do in your free time? Why do you enjoy it?
  • Imagine you could live anywhere—where would you choose and what would it be like?
  • Write about a time when you had to be really brave—what happened and how did you handle it?

Writing Prompts for 5th Grade

Fifth graders are ready to tackle more complex ideas and stories. These prompts are designed to inspire them to think critically and creatively, pushing their writing skills to the next level.

  • Imagine you could time travel to any event in history—where would you go and what would you do?
  • Write about a time when you had to help a friend through a difficult situation—how did you support them?
  • Describe your dream school—what subjects would be taught and what would the classrooms be like?
  • Imagine you found a mysterious map—where does it lead and what do you discover?
  • Write a story about a day when you had to make an important decision—how did you choose what to do?
  • What’s something new you’ve realized about yourself over the last year? How has it changed you?
  • Imagine you could talk to someone from the future—what would you ask them?
  • Write about a time when you had to work really hard to achieve a goal—how did you stay motivated?
  • Describe your favorite place to relax—what makes it your go-to spot?
  • Imagine you could design your own theme park—what rides and attractions would it have?
  • Write a story about a secret club you started with your friends—what’s the club’s mission?
  • What’s something you wish you could change about the world? How would you make it happen?
  • Imagine you could switch lives with someone famous for a day—who would it be and why?
  • Write about a time when you had to overcome a challenge—what did you learn from the experience?
  • Describe your perfect birthday party—what would you do to celebrate?
  • Imagine you discovered a new planet—what is it like and who lives there?
  • Write a story about a magical book that brings the characters to life—what happens next?
  • What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned in school so far? How did you learn it?
  • Imagine you could invent something to make life easier—what would it be and how would it work?
  • Write about a time when you had to be a leader—how did you handle the responsibility?
  • Describe your favorite family tradition—why is it meaningful to you?
  • Imagine you could spend a day in your favorite book—what adventures would you have?
  • Write a story about a time when you discovered something unexpected—what was it and how did it change your life?
  • What’s something you’ve done that you’re really proud of? Why is it important to you?
  • Imagine you could live in any time period—where would you go and what would your life be like?
  • Write about a time when you made a new friend—how did you connect with them?
  • Describe your favorite outdoor activity—what do you enjoy most about it?
  • Imagine you could be an expert in any subject—what would it be and why?
  • Write a story about a day when you found a hidden door—where does it lead and what do you find?
  • What’s something you’re really looking forward to in the next year? Why?
  • Imagine you could talk to animals—what conversations would you have with your favorite animal?
  • Write about a time when you had to solve a mystery—how did you figure it out?
  • Describe your favorite way to spend time with your friends—why do you enjoy it?
  • Imagine you could be a character in your favorite movie—who would you be and what would you do?
  • Write a story about a day when you invented something amazing—what happens when people start using it?
  • What’s something you’ve learned from your family? How has it shaped who you are?
  • Write about a time when you had to make a sacrifice—what did you give up and why?
  • Describe your ideal weekend—what would you do and who would you spend it with?
  • Imagine you could be a detective for a day—what case would you solve and how would you do it?
  • Write a story about a time when you found a lost treasure—what was it and what did you do with it?
  • What’s something you wish you could learn more about? How would you go about learning it?
  • Imagine you could be a superhero—what would your powers be and how would you use them to help others?
  • Write about a time when you faced a fear—how did you overcome it?
  • Describe your favorite memory with your best friend—why is it so special to you?
  • Imagine you could create a new holiday—what would it celebrate and how would people observe it?
  • Write a story about a time when you had to be brave—what was the situation and how did you handle it?
  • What’s something you’ve achieved that you never thought you could? How did you do it?
  • Imagine you could speak any language fluently—what would you do with this ability?
  • Write about a time when you helped someone in need—how did it make you feel?

Writing Prompts for Work

Work can be challenging, but it’s also full of opportunities for growth and creativity.

These prompts are designed to help you think about your work life in new and interesting ways.

  • Write about a time when you had to handle a difficult project at work—how did you manage it?
  • Imagine you could design your dream job—what would it involve and why?
  • What’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learned from a colleague? How did it change your approach to work?
  • Write a story about a day when everything went wrong at work—how did you fix the situation?
  • Describe your ideal workspace—what does it look like and how does it make you feel?
  • Imagine you could start your own business—what would it be and how would you run it?
  • Write about a time when you had to collaborate with a difficult team member—how did you handle it?
  • What’s something you’ve achieved at work that you’re really proud of? Why is it meaningful to you?
  • Imagine you could change one thing about your current job—what would it be and how would it improve your work life?
  • Write about a time when you had to learn a new skill quickly—how did you approach the challenge?
  • Describe a time when you felt truly satisfied with your work—what contributed to that feeling?
  • Write a story about a day when you solved a big problem at work—what was the problem and how did you solve it?
  • What’s the most important skill you’ve developed in your career? How did you master it?
  • Imagine you could take a year off work—what would you do and how would it benefit your career?
  • Write about a time when you had to give a presentation—how did you prepare and how did it go?
  • Describe a moment when you received recognition for your work—what did it mean to you?
  • Imagine you could mentor someone in your field—what advice would you give them?
  • Write about a time when you had to deal with a challenging client or customer—how did you handle the situation?
  • What’s something you’ve learned from a mistake at work? How has it improved the way you work?
  • Imagine you could work anywhere in the world—where would you choose and why?
  • Write about a time when you had to lead a team—how did you ensure everyone was working well together?
  • Describe your favorite project that you’ve worked on—why was it so rewarding?
  • Imagine you could change careers completely—what would you do and why?
  • Write about a time when you had to manage your time effectively—what strategies did you use?
  • What’s something you wish more people understood about your job? Why is it important?
  • Imagine you could create a new product or service—what would it be and how would it help people?
  • Write about a time when you had to make a tough decision at work—how did you come to your conclusion?
  • Describe a work environment where you feel most productive—what makes it conducive to good work?
  • Imagine you could eliminate one task from your job—what would it be and how would it affect your workday?
  • Write about a time when you had to overcome a setback at work—how did you bounce back?
  • What’s the most impactful career advice you’ve been given? How has it impacted your professional life?
  • Imagine you’re the CEO of a company for a day—what changes would you make?
  • Write about a time when you had to navigate office politics—how did you manage it?
  • Describe a moment when you felt really inspired at work—what sparked that inspiration?
  • Imagine you could create your ideal work-life balance—what would it look like?
  • Write about a time when you had to negotiate something at work—how did you approach it and what was the outcome?
  • What’s something you’ve done to improve your work skills? How has it benefited your career?
  • Imagine you could work with any team or company in the world—who would it be and why?
  • Write about a time when you had to manage stress at work—what strategies did you use to stay calm and focused?
  • Describe your dream project—what would you create and how would you go about it?
  • Imagine you could redesign the way your company operates—what changes would you make deadline—how did you manage your time and stay focused?
  • What’s something you’ve done to build better relationships with your colleagues? How has it improved your work environment?
  • Imagine you could introduce a new policy at your workplace—what would it be and why?
  • Write about a time when you had to take on a leadership role unexpectedly—how did you handle the responsibility?
  • Describe a moment when you felt truly challenged at work—what did you do to overcome it?
  • Imagine you could automate one aspect of your job—what would it be and how would it change your workday?
  • Write about a time when you had to give constructive feedback—how did you ensure it was well-received?
  • What’s something you’ve done at work that you believe made a difference? How did it impact your team or company?
  • A person is tasked with managing a high-stakes project that could make or break their career—how do they handle the mounting pressure and navigate the complex dynamics of their team to achieve success?

Holiday Writing Prompts

The holidays are a time of joy, reflection, and sometimes stress.

These prompts are designed to help you capture the spirit of the season in your writing, whether it’s a heartwarming story or a reflective piece.

  • Write about your favorite holiday tradition—why is it so meaningful to you?
  • Describe a memorable holiday experience—what made it stand out?
  • Write a story about a holiday that doesn’t go as planned—how do the characters make the best of it?
  • What’s your favorite holiday food? Write about the memories associated with it.
  • Imagine you could spend the holidays in any place in the world—where would you go and why?
  • Write about a time when you gave or received a meaningful gift—what made it special?
  • Describe your perfect holiday season—what activities and traditions would you include?
  • Imagine you could invite any three people, living or dead, to your holiday dinner—who would they be and why?
  • Write a story about a holiday miracle—what happens and how does it change the characters’ lives?
  • What’s the most unusual holiday you’ve ever celebrated? Write about the experience.
  • Imagine you’re a character in a holiday movie—what’s your role and how does the story unfold?
  • Write about a time when you spent the holidays away from home—how did you make it special?
  • Describe a holiday celebration from a different culture—what traditions and customs are observed?
  • Imagine you could go back in time to any holiday in your life—what year would you choose and why?
  • Write a story about a holiday romance—how do the characters meet and what challenges do they face?
  • What’s your favorite holiday memory from childhood? Write about it in detail.
  • Imagine you’re responsible for organizing a big holiday event—what would you plan and how would it go?
  • Write about a time when the holidays were difficult for you—how did you cope?
  • Describe the sights, sounds, and smells of your favorite holiday—how do they make you feel?
  • Imagine you could experience the holidays through the eyes of a child—what would you notice?
  • Write a story about a character who dreads the holidays—what changes their perspective?
  • What’s the most memorable holiday gift you’ve ever received? Write about the story behind it.
  • Imagine you’re writing a letter to Santa as an adult—what would you ask for and why?
  • Write about a time when you had to create new holiday traditions—what did you do and how did it turn out?
  • Describe the perfect winter day—what activities do you do and who do you spend it with?
  • Imagine you could relive a past holiday—what would you do differently?
  • Write a story about a holiday surprise—what happens and how do the characters react?
  • What’s the most challenging part of the holiday season for you? Write about how you manage it.
  • Imagine you’re a holiday character (like an elf or reindeer)—what’s your role and what adventures do you have?
  • Write about a time when you had to travel during the holidays—what was the journey like?
  • Describe the perfect holiday meal—what’s on the menu and who’s at the table?
  • Imagine you’re decorating for the holidays—what theme or style do you choose and why?
  • Write a story about a character who gets an unexpected visitor during the holidays—how does it change their plans?
  • What’s your favorite holiday movie or book? Write about why it resonates with you.
  • Imagine you could give one gift to the world—what would it be and how would it impact people?
  • Write about a holiday tradition you’d like to start—what is it and why is it important to you?
  • Describe the feeling of waking up on a holiday morning—what emotions do you experience?
  • Imagine you’re hosting a holiday party—who do you invite and what happens at the party?
  • Write a story about a holiday adventure—what challenges do the characters face and how do they overcome them?
  • What’s the best holiday advice you’ve ever received? Write about how it’s helped you.
  • Imagine you could celebrate the holidays in a different time period—when and where would you choose?
  • Write about a holiday memory that always makes you smile—what happened and why is it special?
  • Describe your ideal holiday gift—what makes it perfect for you?
  • Imagine you’re spending the holidays in a remote location—how do you make it festive?
  • Write a story about a character who’s trying to recreate a holiday from their past—what challenges do they face?
  • What’s your favorite holiday decoration? Write about the memories associated with it.
  • Imagine you could create a holiday playlist—what songs would be on it and why?
  • Write about a time when the holidays didn’t turn out as expected—how did you make the best of it?
  • Describe the perfect holiday evening—what do you do, who are you with, and how does it end?

Bizarre Writing Prompts

Sometimes, the strangest ideas lead to the most creative stories.

These bizarre prompts are designed to stretch your imagination and take your writing to unexpected places.

  • Write about a world where gravity suddenly reverses every 24 hours.
  • Imagine you wake up one day with the ability to speak in animal languages—what conversations do you have?
  • Write a story where all the clocks in the world stop at the same time—what happens next?
  • Imagine a town where people spontaneously switch bodies with each other every full moon.
  • Write about a day when everyone in the world forgets their name.
  • Imagine you’re a detective solving a crime in a town where everyone is invisible.
  • Write a story where your reflection in the mirror starts talking back to you.
  • Imagine you live in a world where people can only tell the truth on Wednesdays.
  • Write about a time when you found a door that leads to a different dimension.
  • Imagine a world where every time you sneeze, you teleport to a random location.
  • Write a story where all the plants in your garden start growing at an alarming rate overnight.
  • Imagine you discover that your shadow has a mind of its own.
  • Write about a town where the weather changes based on people’s moods.
  • Imagine you’re the last person on Earth, but you start receiving mysterious messages.
  • Write a story where every animal you see is actually a shape-shifting human.
  • Imagine you find a book that predicts everything you’ll do in the next 24 hours.
  • Write about a world where people can only communicate through drawings.
  • Imagine you wake up one morning and everything you touch turns to gold—but there’s a catch.
  • Write a story where everyone around you starts speaking in riddles.
  • Imagine you find a pair of glasses that let you see people’s deepest secrets.
  • Write about a city where all the buildings are made of jelly.
  • Imagine you discover a portal in your closet that leads to a parallel universe.
  • Write a story where everyone’s pets suddenly gain the ability to talk—but they have a lot to say.
  • Imagine you live in a world where everyone must sing their thoughts out loud.
  • Write about a day when all the colors in the world disappear.
  • Imagine you find a notebook that, when you write in it, makes the events happen in real life.
  • Write a story where gravity only works in certain parts of your house.
  • Imagine you’re in a world where people age backwards—how does life work?
  • Write about a time when you woke up to find that the sun had turned green.
  • Imagine you’re a superhero with the most unusual power—what is it and how do you use it?
  • Write a story where everyone in your town has a twin, but they’re all hiding a big secret.
  • Imagine you discover that the stars in the sky are actually the souls of past civilizations.
  • Write about a day when all technology suddenly stops working—how do people react?
  • Imagine you find out that every door in your house leads to a different place each time you open it.
  • Write a story where everyone can fly, but only for five minutes at a time.
  • Imagine you’re in a world where people can only eat one specific food item—what is it and why?
  • Write about a town where no one is allowed to laugh, but you just can’t stop giggling.
  • Imagine you wake up one day and everyone you know has been replaced by exact lookalikes.
  • Write a story where people’s emotions control the weather—what happens on a particularly bad day?
  • Imagine you’re in a world where everyone has a secret superpower, but no one knows their own power.
  • Write about a time when you discovered a hidden room in your house that defies the laws of physics.
  • Imagine you live in a city where time doesn’t pass unless someone is watching the clock.
  • Write a story where everyone you meet is a character from a different fairy tale.
  • Imagine you’re the only person in the world who can see invisible creatures that are everywhere.
  • Write about a day when gravity disappears and everything starts floating away.
  • Imagine you find a mirror that shows you a different version of yourself every time you look into it.
  • Write a story where every word you speak appears in the air in front of you.
  • Imagine you wake up one day to find that you’ve been turned into a cartoon character.
  • Write about a world where people are born with a set of wings, but they only appear on their 18th birthday.
  • Imagine you live in a world where people must trade their memories in exchange for knowledge.

Nature Writing Prompts

Nature is a source of endless inspiration.

These prompts are designed to help you explore the beauty, power, and mysteries of the natural world in your writing.

  • Write about a time when you got lost in the wilderness—how did you find your way back?
  • Imagine you could communicate with trees—what would they tell you about the world?
  • Write a story about a river that flows backwards and the secrets it holds.
  • Describe the most beautiful sunset you’ve ever seen—what made it so unforgettable?
  • Imagine you’re an animal living in the forest—what challenges do you face each day?
  • Write about a time when you were caught in a powerful storm—how did it make you feel?
  • Imagine you discover a hidden waterfall in the middle of a dense forest—what do you find there?
  • Write a story where the ocean suddenly starts rising and what people do to survive.
  • Describe the experience of walking through a field of flowers in full bloom—what do you see, smell, and feel?
  • Imagine you could live in any natural environment—where would it be and why?
  • Write about a time when you witnessed a natural disaster—how did it impact you?
  • Imagine you discover a new species of plant—what does it look like and what are its properties?
  • Write a story where the animals of the forest must band together to save their home.
  • Describe a night spent under the stars—what thoughts come to your mind as you gaze at the sky?
  • Imagine you’re a bird migrating thousands of miles—what do you see and experience on your journey?
  • Write about a day when the sun didn’t rise—how does the world react?
  • Imagine you find a hidden cave deep in the mountains—what mysteries does it hold?
  • Write a story where the seasons start changing unpredictably—how does it affect life on Earth?
  • Describe the feeling of walking barefoot on a sandy beach—what sensations do you experience?
  • Imagine you’re a tree watching over the same spot for hundreds of years—what changes do you witness?
  • Write about a time when you felt a deep connection to nature—what brought it on and how did it affect you?
  • Imagine you could control the weather for a day—what would you do and why?
  • Write a story about a garden that grows only at night—what plants and creatures thrive there?
  • Describe the most peaceful place in nature you’ve ever visited—what made it so serene?
  • Imagine you’re an explorer discovering an uncharted island—what do you find there?
  • Write about a time when you watched the first snowfall of the season—what emotions did it evoke?
  • Imagine you’re a flower blooming in a desert—how do you survive and what challenges do you face?
  • Write a story about a forest where the trees can move and communicate with each other.
  • Describe the experience of walking through a dense fog—what can you see, hear, and feel?
  • Imagine you’re a fish living in a coral reef—what dangers and beauties do you encounter each day?
  • Write about a time when you climbed to the top of a mountain—what did you feel when you reached the summit?
  • Imagine you could transform into any animal for a day—what would you choose and what would you do?
  • Write a story where the natural world starts reclaiming abandoned cities—how does it happen and what does it look like?
  • Describe the sensation of standing in a pouring rain—what thoughts go through your mind?
  • Imagine you discover a hidden grove where time stands still—what secrets does it hold?
  • Write about a time when you encountered a wild animal—how did it affect you?
  • Imagine you could plant a tree that grows something unusual—what would it be and why?
  • Write a story about a lake that grants wishes—but only to those who truly believe.
  • Describe the feeling of walking through a snowy landscape—what sounds and sights do you notice?
  • Imagine you’re a butterfly emerging from a cocoon—what is your first flight like?
  • Write about a time when you camped in the wilderness—what challenges did you face and how did you overcome them?
  • Imagine you find a natural hot spring in the middle of a cold, snowy forest—what do you do?
  • Write a story where the moon suddenly disappears—how does it affect the natural world?
  • Describe the experience of hiking through a rainforest—what do you see, hear, and feel?
  • Imagine you could communicate with the ocean—what would it tell you about the world?
  • Write about a time when you watched the sunset over the mountains—what emotions did it evoke?
  • Imagine you find a treehouse high in the branches of an ancient tree—what adventures do you have there?
  • Write a story about a drought that lasts for years—how do people and animals survive?
  • Imagine you’re in a world where flowers bloom in patterns that tell stories—what tales do they reveal?
  • Write about a time when you spent the entire day outdoors—what did you do, and how did it affect you?

Romance Writing Prompts

Love is a powerful theme that can inspire a wide range of stories.

These prompts are designed to explore the many facets of romance, from the sweet and tender to the complex and challenging.

  • Write about a chance meeting that leads to an unexpected romance—how do the characters connect?
  • Imagine two people who have been friends for years suddenly realize they’re in love—how do they navigate this new dynamic?
  • Write a story about a love that defies the odds—what obstacles do the characters face?
  • Imagine a couple that’s been together for decades—what’s their secret to staying in love?
  • Write about a romance that begins with a misunderstanding—how do they eventually come together?
  • Imagine two characters who meet in an unusual place—how does their romance develop?
  • Write a story about a long-distance relationship—how do the characters keep their love alive?
  • Imagine a love story set in a fantasy world—what challenges do the characters face in their quest for love?
  • Write about a couple who fall in love at first sight—how does their relationship unfold?
  • Imagine a romance that blooms in the midst of a conflict—how do the characters navigate their feelings in such a setting?
  • Write a story where two people who dislike each other are forced to work together—how does their relationship evolve into love?
  • Imagine a couple that communicates primarily through letters—what do their letters reveal about their love?
  • Write about a character who falls in love with someone they can’t have—how do they cope with their feelings?
  • Imagine a love triangle—how do the characters deal with their complicated emotions?
  • Write a story about a romance that begins with a simple act of kindness—how does it grow from there?
  • Imagine a couple who are reunited after many years apart—what brought them back together?
  • Write about a character who falls in love with someone from a different world or culture—how do they bridge their differences?
  • Imagine a romance that develops during a shared adventure—what bonds the characters together?
  • Write a story where a character must choose between two loves—how do they make their decision?
  • Imagine a couple that meets under extraordinary circumstances—how does their relationship progress?
  • Write about a love that is kept secret—what are the reasons, and how do they navigate their hidden romance?
  • Imagine two people who fall in love despite their very different personalities—how do they make it work?
  • Write a story about a romance that begins with a lie—how do the characters move past the deception?
  • Imagine a couple that faces a major life change—how does it affect their relationship?
  • Write about a love that starts with a shared passion—how does their common interest bring them closer?
  • Imagine a romance set in the future—how does technology play a role in their relationship?
  • Write a story where a character must win back the love of their life—how do they go about it?
  • Imagine a love story that takes place in a small town—how does the setting influence their romance?
  • Write about a character who is afraid to fall in love—what happens when they meet someone who changes their mind?
  • Imagine a romance that begins with a serendipitous encounter—how do they realize they’re meant to be together?
  • Write a story where love is tested by time—how do the characters keep their bond strong?
  • Imagine a couple that discovers a hidden secret about each other—how does it affect their relationship?
  • Write about a love that blossoms in an unexpected place—how do the characters navigate their unusual situation?
  • Imagine a romance that is interrupted by an unexpected event—how do the characters find their way back to each other?
  • Write a story where a character falls in love with someone who doesn’t speak the same language—how do they communicate their feelings?
  • Imagine a love story set in a historical time period—how do the characters navigate the social norms of their era?
  • Write about a couple who are brought together by a shared loss—how do they find comfort in each other?
  • Imagine a romance that starts with a bet—how do the characters realize their feelings are real?
  • Write a story where a character must choose between love and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity—what do they decide?
  • Imagine a love story that spans across different lifetimes—how do the characters keep finding each other?
  • Write about a romance that develops through a series of dreams—how do the characters connect in the waking world?
  • Imagine a couple who must keep their love a secret because of a dangerous situation—how do they protect each other?
  • Write a story where a character falls in love with their best friend—how do they navigate their new feelings?
  • Imagine a romance that begins with a rescue—how does the situation bring the characters together?
  • Write about a love that is challenged by external forces—how do the characters fight to stay together?
  • Imagine a couple who reconnect after many years apart—what has changed, and how do they rekindle their love?
  • Write a story where love blooms between two characters who are complete opposites—how do they complement each other?
  • Imagine a romance that is sparked by a shared secret—how do the characters navigate their hidden bond?
  • Write about a love that is forbidden—how do the characters cope with the challenges they face?
  • Imagine a couple that finds love through a series of seemingly random events—how do they realize they were meant to be together?

History Writing Prompts

History is rich with stories waiting to be told.

These prompts are designed to help you explore different time periods, significant events, and the lives of people who shaped the world.

  • Write about a day in the life of a soldier during World War I—what challenges do they face?
  • Imagine you are a servant in a medieval castle—what is your daily routine and what secrets do you uncover?
  • Write a story about a young woman involved in the suffragette movement—what motivates her to fight for women’s rights?
  • Imagine you are a journalist covering the signing of the Declaration of Independence—what do you witness and how do you feel about it?
  • Write about a family trying to survive during the Great Depression—what struggles do they encounter?
  • Imagine you are an explorer during the Age of Discovery—what new lands do you find and what challenges do you face?
  • Write a story about a child growing up in ancient Egypt—what is their life like and what role does religion play?
  • Imagine you are a spy during the Cold War—what mission are you on and what risks do you take?
  • Write about a day in the life of a Roman gladiator—what drives them to fight and how do they prepare?
  • Imagine you are a passenger on the Titanic—how do you react when the ship begins to sink?
  • Write a story about an artist during the Renaissance—what inspires your work and how do you navigate the political climate?
  • Imagine you are a leader during the French Revolution—what decisions do you make and what impact do they have?
  • Write about a slave escaping to freedom via the Underground Railroad—what challenges do you face on your journey?
  • Imagine you are a knight during the Crusades—what motivates you to fight and what do you encounter along the way?
  • Write a story about a scientist during the Industrial Revolution—what new invention are you working on and how does it change the world?
  • Imagine you are a Native American witnessing the arrival of European settlers—what do you think and how do you respond?
  • Write about a family living through the Dust Bowl—how do they survive and what choices do they make?
  • Imagine you are a pioneer traveling westward on the Oregon Trail—what struggles do you experience, and how do you work through them?
  • Write a story about a sailor on one of Christopher Columbus’s voyages—what do you discover and how do you feel about it?
  • Imagine you are a soldier during the Civil War—what battles do you fight and how do they affect you?
  • Write about a child living in ancient Greece—what is your life like and how do you participate in your city’s culture?
  • Imagine you are a survivor of Pompeii’s eruption—how do you escape and what do you see?
  • Write a story about a woman working in a factory during World War II—what challenges do you face and how do you contribute to the war effort?
  • Imagine you are a Viking setting sail for new lands—what do you encounter and how do you adapt?
  • Write about a day in the life of a samurai in feudal Japan—what is your role and what do you value most?
  • Imagine you are a member of the Lewis and Clark expedition—what discoveries do you make and how do they impact the group?
  • Write a story about a musician in 1920s Harlem—how do you contribute to the Harlem Renaissance and what challenges do you face?
  • Imagine you are a prisoner in the Tower of London during the Tudor era—why are you there and what is your fate?
  • Write about a family trying to survive the Black Death in medieval Europe—how do they cope with the fear and loss?
  • Imagine you are an archaeologist uncovering a lost civilization—what do you find and what does it reveal about history?
  • Write a story about a monk living in a monastery during the Middle Ages—what is your daily life like and what secrets do you guard?
  • Imagine you are a worker building the Great Wall of China—what is the experience like and how do you feel about the project?
  • Write about a sailor navigating the treacherous waters of the Cape of Good Hope during the Age of Exploration—what challenges do you face?
  • Imagine you are a witness to the assassination of Abraham Lincoln—how do you react and what happens next?
  • Write a story about a child growing up in the ancient Mayan civilization—what is your life like and what do you learn from your elders?
  • Imagine you are a nurse on the front lines during World War I—what challenges do you face and how do you help the soldiers?
  • Write about a day in the life of a merchant in ancient Mesopotamia—what goods do you trade and how do you navigate the marketplace?
  • Imagine you are a Native American leader negotiating with European settlers—what are your goals and how do you achieve them?
  • Write a story about a Roman senator during the fall of the Roman Empire—how do you react to the changing political landscape?
  • Imagine you are a witness to the signing of the Magna Carta—what is the atmosphere like and what do you think about the document?
  • Write about a day in the life of a blacksmith in medieval Europe—what is your craft and how do you interact with your community?
  • Imagine you are a witness to the construction of the pyramids in ancient Egypt—what do you see and how do you feel about the project?
  • Write a story about a family living in East Berlin during the Cold War—how do they cope with the division of their city?
  • Imagine you are a member of the Inca Empire witnessing the arrival of Spanish conquistadors—how do you react and what do you do?
  • Write about a day in the life of a sailor on a pirate ship in the Caribbean—what adventures do you have and how do you survive?
  • Imagine you are a witness to the Boston Tea Party—what do you see and how do you feel about the protest?
  • Write a story about a scholar in ancient China—what knowledge do you seek and how do you contribute to your society?
  • Imagine you are a soldier fighting in the trenches during World War I—what is the experience like and how do you cope?
  • Write about a day in the life of a medieval peasant—what challenges do you face and how do you survive?
  • Imagine you are an abolitionist helping slaves escape to freedom in the 19th century—what risks do you take and what drives you to help?

Faith-Based Writing Prompts

Faith is a powerful force that shapes lives and communities.

These prompts are designed to help you explore spiritual themes, personal beliefs, and the ways faith impacts the world.

  • Write about a moment when you felt your faith was tested—how did you respond and what did you learn?
  • Imagine you’re a traveler who stumbles upon a hidden temple—what do you find inside and how does it affect your beliefs?
  • Write a story about a person who experiences a miracle—how does it change their life and their faith?
  • Imagine you’re a pilgrim on a sacred journey—what challenges do you face and how do they strengthen your faith?
  • Write about a time when you had to rely on your faith during a difficult situation—what gave you strength?
  • Imagine you’re a monk living in a remote monastery—what is your daily routine and how do you find spiritual fulfillment?
  • Write a story about a person who loses their faith and then finds it again—what leads to their transformation?
  • Imagine you’re in a world where prayers are answered immediately—how does it change the way people live?
  • Write about a community that comes together to build a place of worship—how does the process bring them closer?
  • Imagine you’re a spiritual leader guiding others through a time of crisis—how do you offer comfort and hope?
  • Write a story where a character discovers an ancient religious text—how does it impact their beliefs and their life?
  • Imagine you’re a person of faith living in a society that opposes your beliefs—how do you stay true to your convictions?
  • Write about a time when you witnessed an act of kindness inspired by faith—how did it affect you?
  • Imagine you’re in a world where faith is measured in physical strength—how do people practice their beliefs?
  • Write a story about a person who receives a divine message—how do they interpret it and what do they do?
  • Imagine you’re a missionary in a foreign land—what challenges do you face and how do you share your faith?
  • Write about a time when you felt a deep connection to something greater than yourself—how did it shape your perspective?
  • Imagine you’re a person struggling with doubt—how do you find your way back to faith?
  • Write a story about a community that practices a unique form of worship—how does it bring them together?
  • Imagine you’re a guardian angel tasked with protecting someone—how do you guide them without revealing yourself?
  • Write about a moment when you felt your prayers were answered—what impact did it have on your life?
  • Imagine you’re in a world where faith can be seen as a visible light around people—how does it change interactions?
  • Write a story about a person who discovers they have the ability to heal others—how does it affect their faith?
  • Imagine you’re a spiritual seeker exploring different religions—what do you learn and how does it influence your beliefs?
  • Write about a time when your faith helped you forgive someone—what was the situation and how did you find peace?
  • Imagine you’re in a world where people’s destinies are written in the stars—how do people interpret their faith in relation to their predestined paths?
  • Write a story about a person who finds a sacred artifact—how does it change their faith and the lives of those around them?
  • Imagine you’re a member of a religious community living in isolation—how do you maintain your spiritual practices?
  • Write about a time when your faith helped you overcome a significant obstacle—what role did belief play in your success?
  • Imagine you’re in a world where everyone receives a vision of their future—how does it shape their faith and actions?
  • Write a story about a person who must choose between following their faith and protecting their loved ones—how do they make their decision?
  • Imagine you’re a spiritual guide leading others through a sacred ritual—what do you teach and how do the participants react?
  • Write about a person who experiences a crisis of faith after a personal tragedy—how do they find solace?
  • Imagine you’re in a society where different faiths coexist peacefully—what challenges arise and how are they resolved?
  • Write a story about a person who hears a voice guiding them on a spiritual quest—how do they interpret the message?
  • Imagine you’re a religious scholar uncovering a lost chapter of a sacred text—how does it change the understanding of your faith?
  • Write about a time when your faith brought you comfort during a time of fear or uncertainty—how did it help you cope?
  • Imagine you’re in a world where faith is tied to the elements—how do people express their beliefs through nature?
  • Write a story about a person who must reconcile their faith with scientific discoveries—how do they balance belief and reason?
  • Imagine you’re a member of a faith community preparing for a significant spiritual event—how do you contribute and what does it mean to you?
  • Write about a person who finds unexpected faith in the midst of chaos—what leads them to this realization?
  • Imagine you’re in a world where people’s faith is reflected in the colors they wear—how does this affect society?
  • Write a story about a person who feels disconnected from their faith and goes on a journey to rediscover it—what do they learn?
  • Imagine you’re a spiritual leader faced with a moral dilemma—how do you guide your community through it?
  • Write about a time when you saw someone else’s faith inspire a positive change—what happened and how did it affect you?
  • Imagine you’re in a world where people can physically see the results of their prayers—how does it impact their beliefs and actions?
  • Write a story about a person who creates a new form of worship—how is it received and what impact does it have?
  • Imagine you’re a pilgrim traveling to a holy site—what challenges do you face on your journey and how does it strengthen your faith?
  • Write about a time when you questioned your faith and found new meaning in it—what caused the doubt and how did you resolve it?
  • Imagine you’re in a world where faith can be exchanged like currency—how do people value and trade their beliefs?

Animal Writing Prompts

Animals can inspire stories of loyalty, adventure, and the wild unknown.

These prompts are designed to explore the bonds between humans and animals, as well as the mysteries of the animal kingdom.

  • Write a story about a stray dog that befriends a lonely child—how do they help each other?
  • Imagine you could talk to your pet—what would they say about their life with you?
  • Write about a day in the life of a wild animal—what challenges do they face in their natural habitat?
  • Write a story about a zoo animal that dreams of escaping—what happens when they finally get the chance?
  • Imagine you discover a secret society of animals living in your city—how do they interact with humans?
  • Write about a cat that seems to have nine lives—what adventures do they experience?
  • Imagine you’re a wildlife photographer who discovers a new species—what do you do with this discovery?
  • Write a story where animals start communicating with humans—how does this change the world?
  • Imagine you’re a horse in the Wild West—what is your relationship with your rider?
  • Write about a person who turns into an animal for a day—how do they see the world differently?
  • Imagine you’re a marine biologist studying dolphins—what surprising behavior do you observe?
  • Write a story about an animal that helps solve a mystery—how do they assist the humans involved?
  • Imagine you’re an animal living in a magical forest—what powers do you possess and how do you use them?
  • Write about a child who discovers they can understand what birds are singing—how do they use this ability?
  • Write a story where a group of animals must work together to overcome a natural disaster—how do they succeed?
  • Imagine you find a journal written by a wolf—what stories do they tell?
  • Write about a person who has a deep connection with animals—how does this affect their life?
  • Imagine you’re a veterinarian who discovers that all animals have a hidden intelligence—how do you handle this secret?
  • Write a story where a dog’s loyalty saves their owner from danger—what do they do?
  • Imagine you’re an explorer who finds an island inhabited by unknown animal species—what do you discover?
  • Write about a day in the life of a domesticated animal—how do they view their human family?
  • Imagine you’re a bird flying over a city—what do you see and how do you interact with the people below?
  • Write a story where animals and humans switch roles for a day—how do they adapt to their new lives?
  • Imagine you’re a lion leading your pride in the savannah—what challenges do you face?
  • Write about a person who rescues injured wildlife—what motivates them and what challenges do they encounter?
  • Imagine you’re a fish in the ocean—what dangers do you face and how do you survive?
  • Write a story about a stray cat that changes the life of the person who adopts them—how do they form a bond?
  • Imagine you’re a turtle living in a pond—what is your daily life like and what other creatures do you encounter?
  • Write about a person who discovers they can shapeshift into any animal—how do they use this power?
  • Imagine you’re an animal living in the Arctic—what do you do to survive the harsh conditions?
  • Write a story where animals in a shelter plot to find homes for each other—how do they succeed?
  • Imagine you’re an eagle soaring above the mountains—what do you see and how does it make you feel?
  • Write about a person who dedicates their life to protecting endangered species—what drives them and what obstacles do they face?
  • Imagine you’re a dog that can sense when someone is in danger—how do you use this ability?
  • Write a story about a wild animal that becomes a legend in its community—what makes them so special?
  • Imagine you’re a bird building a nest—what materials do you use and why?
  • Write about a person who discovers a hidden talent for communicating with animals—how do they use this gift?
  • Imagine you’re a fox living in a dense forest—how do you outsmart your predators?
  • Write a story where an animal teaches a human an important life lesson—what do they learn?
  • Imagine you’re a whale navigating the deep ocean—what do you encounter on your journey?
  • Write about a person who spends a year living in the wild with animals—how do they adapt and what do they learn?
  • Imagine you’re a cat with nine lives—what adventures do you experience and how do you use each life?
  • Write a story about a person who forms an unbreakable bond with a wild animal—how do they communicate and what challenges do they face?
  • Imagine you’re a rabbit living in a meadow—what dangers do you face and how do you stay safe?
  • Write about a person who becomes an advocate for animal rights—what inspires them and how do they make a difference?
  • Imagine you’re a monkey in the jungle—what mischief do you get into and how do you interact with other animals?
  • Write a story where animals start helping humans with their daily tasks—how does this change society?
  • Imagine you’re a bear preparing for hibernation—what do you do to get ready and what do you dream about?

Poetry Writing Prompts

Poetry is an art form that allows for deep expression and creativity.

These prompts are designed to help you explore emotions, images, and ideas through verse.

  • Write a poem about the first moment you fell in love—capture the emotions and sensations.
  • Imagine a world where colors have feelings—write a poem from the perspective of your favorite color.
  • Write a poem about a time when you felt completely at peace—what brought on this feeling?
  • Imagine you are a tree standing in a forest—write a poem about the changes you witness through the seasons.
  • Write a poem that describes the sound of rain—how does it make you feel and what memories does it evoke?
  • Imagine you are a butterfly fluttering through a garden—write a poem about your journey from flower to flower.
  • Write a poem that captures the essence of a city at night—what do you see, hear, and feel?
  • Imagine you are a star in the night sky—write a poem about your view of the universe.
  • Write a poem about a time when you experienced loss—how did it change you?
  • Imagine you are a wave in the ocean—write a poem about your rise, fall, and return to the sea.
  • Write a poem that explores the concept of time—how does it move, and what does it mean to you?
  • Imagine you are a bird soaring above the clouds—write a poem about your flight and freedom.
  • Write a poem that describes the feeling of nostalgia—what memories come to mind and how do they affect you?
  • Imagine you are a shadow following someone through their day—write a poem about what you observe.
  • Write a poem that captures the beauty of the morning light—how does it change the world around you?
  • Imagine you are a river flowing through the landscape—write a poem about the places you pass and the life you support.
  • Write a poem that explores the theme of hope—what keeps you moving forward during difficult times?
  • Imagine you are a leaf falling from a tree in autumn—write a poem about your descent and journey to the ground.
  • Write a poem that describes the emotions of a storm—what does it rage against and what is left in its wake?
  • Imagine you are a piece of music floating through the air—write a poem about how you move and who you touch.
  • Write a poem about a moment of stillness—what do you notice when everything is quiet?
  • Imagine you are a candle flickering in the dark—write a poem about your light and what you illuminate.
  • Write a poem that explores the idea of home—what does it mean to you and how do you find it?
  • Imagine you are a whisper traveling through a crowd—write a poem about the secrets you carry.
  • Write a poem that captures the feeling of anticipation—what are you waiting for and how does it affect you?
  • Imagine you are a mirror reflecting someone’s soul—write a poem about what you see.
  • Write a poem that describes the changing of the seasons—how does nature transform and what does it signify?
  • Imagine you are a piece of driftwood carried by the waves—write a poem about your journey through the ocean.
  • Write a poem that explores the theme of love—what forms does it take and how does it manifest in your life?
  • Imagine you are a snowfall blanketing the earth—write a poem about your quiet descent and the world you cover.
  • Write a poem that describes the feeling of joy—what brings you happiness and how does it fill your heart?
  • Imagine you are a flame dancing in the wind—write a poem about your movement and the warmth you provide.
  • Write a poem that captures the essence of a long journey—what do you experience and how does it change you?
  • Imagine you are a dream visiting someone in their sleep—write a poem about what you show them and why.
  • Write a poem that explores the theme of memory—how do past experiences shape who you are today?
  • Imagine you are a tear falling from someone’s eye—write a poem about your journey and what you represent.
  • Write a poem that captures the silence of the night—how does the world change when darkness falls?
  • Imagine you are the wind moving through the trees—write a poem about your path and the stories you hear.
  • Write a poem that explores the theme of resilience—how do you find strength in adversity?
  • Imagine you are a forgotten letter hidden in a drawer—write a poem about the message you carry and who it was meant for.
  • Write a poem that describes the feeling of longing—what do you yearn for and how does it shape your actions?
  • Imagine you are a snowflake drifting through the sky—write a poem about your unique journey to the ground.
  • Write a poem that captures the beauty of a full moon—how does its light change the night and your perspective?
  • Imagine you are an echo bouncing off a canyon wall—write a poem about what you repeat and how you fade away.
  • Write a poem that explores the concept of destiny—how do you perceive the future and your path toward it?
  • Imagine you are a ray of sunlight breaking through the clouds—write a poem about the hope you bring and the shadows you chase away.
  • Write a poem that captures the essence of friendship—what bonds you to others and how does it enrich your life?
  • Imagine you are a mountain standing tall through the ages—write a poem about the changes you witness and the strength you embody.
  • Write a poem that describes the feeling of being lost—how do you navigate the uncertainty and find your way?
  • Imagine you are the first bloom of spring—write a poem about renewal, growth, and the promise of new beginnings.

Biography Writing Prompts

Writing a biography allows you to delve into the life of someone who has made a significant impact on the world.a

These prompts are designed to help you explore the stories, struggles, and achievements of both well-known and lesser-known individuals.

  • Write about a person who changed the course of history—what were their key decisions and motivations?
  • Imagine you are writing the biography of someone who lived in obscurity but made a profound difference in their community—what was their contribution?
  • Write a story about a famous artist’s early years—how did their childhood experiences shape their future work?
  • Imagine you’re chronicling the life of a scientist who made a groundbreaking discovery—what challenges did they overcome?
  • Write a biography of a person who led a double life—how did they balance their public and private personas?
  • Imagine you are writing about a political leader who faced great opposition—how did they navigate their challenges and what was their legacy?
  • Write a biography of a musician who struggled with fame—how did their personal life influence their music?
  • Imagine you are documenting the life of an explorer—what drove them to seek out new lands, and what did they discover?
  • Write about an athlete who overcame significant obstacles to achieve greatness—what was their journey like?
  • Imagine you’re telling the story of a humanitarian who worked tirelessly for a cause—what motivated them and what impact did they have?
  • Write a biography of a writer who changed the literary world—what inspired their most famous works?
  • Imagine you’re chronicling the life of a business mogul—how did they build their empire, and what sacrifices did they make?
  • Write about a person who was ahead of their time—how did they influence future generations?
  • Imagine you’re documenting the life of an inventor—what was their most significant invention, and how did it change the world?
  • Write a biography of a military leader who made crucial decisions during a time of war—what were the consequences of their actions?
  • Imagine you are telling the story of a person who lived through a significant historical event—how did it shape their life and worldview?
  • Write about a religious leader who inspired millions—what were their core beliefs and how did they spread their message?
  • Imagine you’re chronicling the life of an activist who fought for social justice—what challenges did they face, and what were their victories?
  • Write a biography of a person who made a significant impact in the field of education—what were their innovations and how did they change the system?
  • Imagine you are writing about an environmentalist who dedicated their life to protecting the planet—what drove their passion?
  • Write about a person who made a lasting impact in the world of entertainment—how did they shape their industry?
  • Imagine you are documenting the life of a person who lived through extreme adversity—how did they persevere and what legacy did they leave behind?
  • Write a biography of a famous inventor who failed multiple times before achieving success—what kept them going?
  • Imagine you’re telling the story of a person who dedicated their life to public service—what were their most significant contributions?
  • Write about a person who became a symbol of hope during a difficult time—how did they inspire others?
  • Imagine you are chronicling the life of a person who played a key role in a major movement—what was their strategy and what impact did they have?
  • Write a biography of a person who revolutionized their field—how did they innovate, and what challenges did they face?
  • Imagine you’re documenting the life of a person who made a significant contribution to science but was overlooked—what was their discovery?
  • Write about a person who broke barriers in their profession—how did they pave the way for others?
  • Imagine you are telling the story of a person who faced persecution for their beliefs—how did they stay true to their principles?
  • Write a biography of a person who was a trailblazer in the world of fashion—how did they influence trends and culture?
  • Imagine you’re chronicling the life of a person who survived a major disaster—how did they rebuild their life and help others?
  • Write about a person who led a quiet but impactful life—how did their actions make a difference in the lives of those around them?
  • Imagine you are writing about a person who was both loved and hated by the public—what were the reasons for these divided opinions?
  • Write a biography of a person who made a significant impact on technology—how did their work change the way we live?
  • Imagine you’re telling the story of a person who was a mentor to many—how did they guide and inspire others?
  • Write about a person who sacrificed their own success for the greater good—what were the consequences of their choices?
  • Imagine you are chronicling the life of a person who fought for their country—how did their experiences shape them?
  • Write a biography of a person who was a pioneer in the field of medicine—what were their breakthroughs and how did they save lives?
  • Imagine you’re telling the story of a person who lived a life of adventure—what were their most daring exploits?
  • Write about a person who became a symbol of resilience in the face of hardship—how did they overcome their struggles?
  • Imagine you are documenting the life of a person who lived during a time of great change—how did they adapt and influence others?
  • Write a biography of a person who dedicated their life to art—what were their most significant works and how did they influence the art world?
  • Imagine you’re chronicling the life of a person who was a visionary in their field—how did their ideas change the course of history?
  • Write about a person who made a significant impact on human rights—what were their key contributions and how are they remembered?
  • Imagine you are telling the story of a person who lived a life of secrecy—what were their hidden motives and how did they affect their legacy?
  • Write a biography of a person who was known for their kindness and generosity—how did their actions touch the lives of others?
  • Imagine you are documenting the life of a person who faced immense personal challenges—how did they rise above them and what did they achieve?
  • Write about a person who was instrumental in the development of a new art form—how did they innovate and inspire others?
  • Imagine you’re telling the story of a person who made a lasting impact on the world, but whose story has been forgotten—how do you bring their legacy to light?

Sci-Fi Writing Prompts

Science fiction offers limitless possibilities for exploring the future, technology, and the unknown.

These prompts are designed to spark your imagination and take you on a journey to other worlds and realities.

  • Write a story about a world where humans can upload their consciousness into a digital afterlife—what challenges arise?
  • Imagine a future where space travel is as common as air travel—what adventures do you embark on?
  • Write about a robot that develops emotions—how does it navigate its new experiences?
  • Imagine you’re living on a distant planet where the environment is constantly changing—how do you adapt?
  • Write a story about a society where everyone is born with a barcode that determines their fate—how do people challenge this system?
  • Imagine a world where time travel is possible, but with severe consequences—what happens when someone breaks the rules?
  • Write about a future where humans communicate telepathically—what complications arise?
  • Imagine you discover an alien species living on Earth in secret—how do you react and what do you do?
  • Write a story about a world where people can relive their past lives—how does this affect their current life choices?
  • Imagine a future where artificial intelligence controls all aspects of life—what happens when the AI starts to malfunction?
  • Write about a society where people are genetically engineered for specific roles—how do individuals rebel against their predetermined paths?
  • Imagine you’re a scientist who discovers a parallel universe—what differences do you find and how do you interact with it?
  • Write a story about a world where humans have colonized the moon—what conflicts arise between Earth and lunar inhabitants?
  • Imagine a future where climate change has drastically altered the planet—how do people survive in this new world?
  • Write about a character who wakes up to find themselves in a world where all technology has disappeared—how do they cope?
  • Imagine a world where people can erase unwanted memories—what are the consequences of this ability?
  • Write a story about a spaceship crew on a mission to explore the farthest reaches of the galaxy—what do they discover?
  • Imagine a future where virtual reality has replaced real-life interactions—how do people form meaningful relationships?
  • Write about a world where people can live forever—what challenges and ethical dilemmas arise?
  • Imagine you’re an astronaut who encounters a mysterious signal from deep space—what do you find when you follow it?
  • Write a story about a society where everyone’s thoughts are broadcast for all to hear—how do people adapt to this lack of privacy?
  • Imagine a world where humans have developed the ability to teleport—what new problems and opportunities does this create?
  • Write about a future where robots have taken over most jobs—how do humans find purpose in this new world?
  • Imagine you’re a time traveler who accidentally alters a crucial event in history—what are the repercussions?
  • Write a story about a world where people can transfer their consciousness into different bodies—how do they choose who to be?
  • Imagine a future where humans have developed a cure for aging—how does society change as a result?
  • Write about a character who discovers they are actually a clone—how do they come to terms with their identity?
  • Imagine a world where humans have colonized the oceans—what new civilizations emerge beneath the waves?
  • Write a story about a dystopian future where books are banned, but a group of rebels fights to preserve knowledge—how do they operate in secret?
  • Imagine you’re a scientist who discovers a way to communicate with extraterrestrial beings—what do you learn from them?
  • Write about a society where emotions are controlled by technology—what happens when someone’s device malfunctions?
  • Imagine a future where the government monitors every aspect of life through implanted chips—how do people resist this control?
  • Write a story about a world where people can swap their lives with others for a day—what complications arise?
  • Imagine you’re on a mission to terraform a new planet—what unexpected challenges do you face?
  • Write about a future where genetic modifications are the norm—how do people who refuse to be modified live in this society?
  • Imagine a world where virtual reality has become indistinguishable from real life—how do people differentiate between the two?
  • Write a story about a time traveler who must prevent a future catastrophe—what sacrifices do they make to succeed?
  • Imagine you’re living in a city controlled by an all-knowing AI—how do you find a way to outsmart it?
  • Write about a society where people can transfer their memories to others—how does this ability impact relationships and trust?
  • Imagine a future where humans have colonized multiple planets, but an ancient alien race threatens their existence—how do people respond?
  • Write a story about a world where people can communicate with animals—how does this change the relationship between humans and nature?
  • Imagine you’re a member of a space crew that discovers a long-lost civilization—what secrets do they uncover?
  • Write about a dystopian future where creativity is outlawed—how do artists and writers keep their work alive?
  • Imagine a world where people are born with a limited amount of energy that they must manage throughout their lives—how do they spend it?
  • Write a story about a scientist who discovers a way to reverse time—what ethical dilemmas do they face?
  • Imagine a future where people can download skills directly into their brains—how does this change the way people learn and live?
  • Write about a society where everyone lives in massive skyscrapers and never sees the ground—what happens when someone decides to explore below?
  • Imagine you’re an explorer sent to investigate a black hole—what do you find on the other side?
  • Write a story about a world where all diseases have been eradicated, but a new, mysterious illness begins to spread—how do people react?
  • Imagine a future where humanity has achieved immortality, but at a cost—what is the price, and is it worth it?

Mystery Writing Prompts

Mysteries are all about suspense, intrigue, and the thrill of the unknown.

These prompts are designed to get your mind whirring as you create stories filled with twists, turns, and surprises.

  • Write a story about a detective who discovers a secret room in their own house—what clues do they find inside?
  • Imagine you receive an anonymous letter with a cryptic message—what does it mean and who sent it?
  • Write about a character who wakes up in a different place every morning—how do they figure out what’s happening?
  • Imagine a small town where people start disappearing one by one—what’s causing it, and how is it stopped?
  • Write a story where someone discovers an old, unsolved case file in their attic—how do they decide to investigate it themselves?
  • Imagine a world where everyone has a hidden superpower—but someone is stealing them—how do they find the thief?
  • Write about a character who finds an old, locked diary—when they finally open it, what shocking secrets do they uncover?
  • Imagine you are a detective investigating a crime with no apparent motive or clues—how do you crack the case?
  • Write a story where every piece of evidence in a crime scene points to different suspects—how does the detective untangle the truth?
  • Imagine you find a hidden passage in a historic building—what does it lead to, and what mystery does it reveal?
  • Write about a character who starts receiving strange, coded messages—what do they mean, and who is sending them?
  • Imagine a town where everyone seems to know a dark secret, but no one will talk about it—what happens when an outsider tries to uncover the truth?
  • Write a story where a seemingly simple object holds the key to a decades-old mystery—how is it discovered?
  • Imagine a detective who solves crimes by entering the dreams of suspects—what happens when they enter the wrong dream?
  • Write about a group of friends who find an abandoned mansion—what mysteries do they uncover inside?
  • Imagine a character who loses their memory but retains one vivid, disturbing image—how do they unravel the mystery of their past?
  • Write a story where a series of seemingly unrelated events are all connected by one mysterious person—who are they, and what’s their motive?
  • Imagine you’re in a city where no one has ever gone missing—until now—what secrets start to unravel?
  • Write about a detective who must solve a crime that hasn’t happened yet—how do they prevent it?
  • Imagine you receive a package with no return address, containing an object that connects to a mystery in your past—what is it and how do you respond?
  • Write a story where a character discovers a hidden journal that predicts future events—how do they use this information?
  • Imagine a town where everyone is pretending to be someone else—why, and who’s behind it?
  • Write about a character who uncovers a series of paintings that seem to depict future crimes—what do they do with this knowledge?
  • Imagine you’re a private investigator hired to find a missing person—only to discover the person never existed—how do you solve this paradox?
  • Write a story where the clues to a mystery are hidden in a series of classic books—how does the protagonist decipher them?
  • Imagine a world where everyone forgets the events of one specific day—what happened, and why is it erased from memory?
  • Write about a character who discovers a map leading to a treasure—but the map itself is a puzzle that needs to be solved first.
  • Imagine you’re investigating a series of crimes that seem to be committed by the same person, but in different time periods—how is this possible?
  • Write a story where the only witness to a crime is an animal—how does the detective use this to solve the case?
  • Imagine a character who discovers that their entire life has been a lie—what happens when they start uncovering the truth?
  • Write about a town where a mysterious fog rolls in every night, and with it, people’s memories begin to change—how does this affect them?
  • Imagine a detective who solves cases by studying people’s social media accounts—what happens when they stumble upon something that shouldn’t exist?
  • Write a story where a character finds a series of photographs that reveal a hidden truth about their family—what do they uncover?
  • Imagine you’re a detective who can hear the last thoughts of the deceased—what do you learn during your latest case?
  • Write about a character who is convinced they’ve seen someone who was reported missing years ago—how do they prove it?
  • Imagine a world where everyone has a doppelgänger, and one day they all start disappearing—why, and who’s behind it?
  • Write a story where a character receives a strange, recurring dream that seems to guide them to a hidden truth—what is it?
  • Imagine a detective who is hired to solve a mystery that takes place in an alternate reality—how do they navigate the unfamiliar world?
  • Write about a character who discovers that they’ve been living the same day over and over—how do they break the cycle?
  • Imagine you’re investigating a crime scene where everything is perfectly normal—except for one tiny, out-of-place detail—what is it, and how does it lead to solving the case?
  • Write a story where a character finds a letter that wasn’t meant for them—what do they do when they realize it contains details of a crime?
  • Imagine a world where people can erase memories—but someone is using this technology to cover up a crime—how do you uncover the truth?
  • Write about a character who discovers an underground network of tunnels beneath their city—what do they find there?
  • Imagine you’re a detective in a future where people can live in virtual worlds—what happens when a crime is committed in the digital realm?
  • Write a story where a character wakes up in a strange place with no memory of how they got there—how do they piece together what happened?
  • Imagine a world where everyone’s actions are recorded, but one day, all the records go missing—how does society react?
  • Write about a detective who specializes in solving cold cases—what happens when they take on a case that’s decades old?
  • Imagine you find a hidden room in your home that wasn’t there before—what do you discover inside, and how does it lead to a mystery?
  • Write a story where a character uncovers a conspiracy that goes all the way to the top—how do they gather evidence and expose the truth?
  • Imagine a town where everyone is hiding a secret, and it’s up to one person to uncover the truth—how do they do it, and what do they find?

Dialogue-Only Writing Prompts

Dialogue-only stories rely on the power of conversation to reveal character, plot, and emotion.

These prompts are designed to help you craft compelling narratives using nothing but dialogue.

  • “You’re late again. What’s your excuse this time?”
  • “I found this in your drawer. Care to explain?”
  • “Are you telling me you’ve never heard of that legend?”
  • “Why did you leave without saying goodbye?”
  • “Tell me the truth—do you really believe that?”
  • “So, you’re saying this whole thing was a setup?”
  • “I’ve been keeping a secret, and it’s time you knew.”
  • “You won’t believe what happened at the party last night.”
  • “If you walk out that door, don’t bother coming back.”
  • “How could you possibly know that? I never told anyone.”
  • “What do you mean, you’ve never been in love?”
  • “This is all a misunderstanding, I swear!”
  • “I’m leaving tonight, and I don’t know if I’m coming back.”
  • “You were right all along, and I hate that.”
  • “Is it true what they’re saying about you?”
  • “You’re not the person I thought you were.”
  • “We need to talk about what happened last night.”
  • “I’m not who you think I am.”
  • “You didn’t seriously think you could get away with it, did you?”
  • “What are you hiding from me?”
  • “I had the strangest dream last night, and you were in it.”
  • “There’s something I’ve been meaning to tell you.”
  • “You’re going to regret this, mark my words.”
  • “Why do you always do this to yourself?”
  • “I saw you with them. Care to explain?”
  • “This isn’t just about you, you know.”
  • “What would you do if I said yes?”
  • “You can’t just walk away from this.”
  • “I never thought I’d see you again.”
  • “You’ve changed. And not for the better.”
  • “What’s the worst that could happen?”
  • “Let’s pretend this conversation never happened.”
  • “Are you sure you want to know the truth?”
  • “I have a confession to make.”
  • “What’s your greatest fear?”
  • “I don’t believe in coincidences.”
  • “You’re going to want to sit down for this.”
  • “Do you ever think about what might have been?”
  • “What if I told you I’ve been lying to you?”
  • “This is the last time I’m going to say this.”
  • “What were you thinking when you did it?”
  • “You can’t handle the truth.”
  • “Let me get this straight—you want me to do what?”
  • “If you don’t tell me now, I’ll find out on my own.”
  • “This isn’t just about us anymore.”
  • “Why do you always make everything so complicated?”
  • “You think this is a joke? Think again.”
  • “We both know you’re not telling the whole story.”
  • “What’s the real reason you came here?”
  • “I never thought it would end like this.”

First-Person Writing Prompts

Writing in the first person allows you to dive deep into a character’s thoughts, emotions, and personal experiences. These prompts are designed to help you explore storytelling from a highly personal perspective.

  • I never thought I’d find myself standing on the edge of this cliff, staring down at the waves crashing below.
  • The letter I found tucked into my old notebook changed everything I thought I knew about my life.
  • I couldn’t believe it when I saw my reflection in the mirror—it wasn’t me staring back.
  • The day I decided to leave my old life behind was the day everything started to make sense.
  • I have a secret that no one knows, and it’s tearing me apart inside.
  • It wasn’t until I moved into the old house at the end of the street that the nightmares began.
  • I always thought I was just an ordinary person until the day I discovered my unique ability.
  • The moment I stepped off the plane, I knew my life was about to change forever.
  • I never expected to meet someone like them in a place like this.
  • Every time I walk past that old tree, I remember the promise I made so many years ago.
  • I’m the only one who knows what really happened that night, but no one would believe me if I told them.
  • I had always been afraid of the dark, but I never knew why—until now.
  • The old journal I found in the attic seemed to be written just for me, even though it was decades old.
  • I never believed in ghosts until I started seeing them everywhere I went.
  • The last thing I remember before everything went black was the sound of someone whispering my name.
  • I’ve always been drawn to the sea, but I never knew it was calling me home.
  • I didn’t mean to eavesdrop, but what I heard changed everything.
  • The map led me to a place I never knew existed, hidden right in the middle of my hometown.
  • I used to think my dreams were just that—dreams—until they started coming true.
  • I never realized how much I had taken my family for granted until it was too late.
  • The first time I saw them, I felt an instant connection, like we had known each other in another life.
  • I’ve always had a talent for finding things that were lost, but this time, I’m the one who’s lost.
  • I knew I shouldn’t open the box, but curiosity got the better of me.
  • My heart raced as I stepped into the abandoned building, unsure of what I would find inside.
  • I’ve always been a skeptic, but after what happened, I can’t deny the truth anymore.
  • The moment I touched the ancient artifact, I knew I was in for more than I had bargained for.
  • I thought I was going crazy when I started hearing voices, but now I know they were real.
  • I’ve been running from my past for years, but it’s finally caught up with me.
  • The photograph I found in the old drawer showed me something I wasn’t supposed to see.
  • I never thought I’d end up in this place, surrounded by people I barely knew.
  • The first time I saw the strange symbol, I knew it was important, but I didn’t know why.
  • I’ve always had a bad feeling about that place, and now I know I was right.
  • I didn’t mean to find out the truth, but now that I know, I can’t go back to the way things were.
  • I thought I was just imagining things, but the evidence is too real to ignore.
  • I’ve spent my whole life searching for something, but I didn’t know what it was until now.
  • The dream I had last night felt so real, and now I’m seeing signs of it everywhere I go.
  • I’ve been keeping this journal for years, but I never expected anyone else to read it.
  • The first time I met them, I felt like I was meeting a part of myself I didn’t know existed.
  • I’ve always been afraid of change, but now I know it’s the only way forward.
  • I thought I was the only one who knew the truth, but it turns out I’m not alone.
  • The old man in the park told me a story I’ll never forget, and now it’s my turn to continue it.
  • I’ve always been good at solving puzzles, but this one has me completely stumped.
  • I didn’t realize how much my life would change when I agreed to help them.
  • The first time I saw the stars, I knew there was more to the universe than I could ever imagine.
  • I’ve been following the same routine for years, but today, everything feels different.
  • The letter arrived without a return address, but I knew exactly who it was from.
  • I’ve always been able to blend in, but now I need to stand out.
  • The secret I’ve been keeping is starting to weigh on me, and I don’t know how much longer I can carry it.
  • I thought I was safe in my small town, but now I realize there’s no such thing as safe.
  • I’ve always been the one people come to for advice, but now I’m the one who needs help.

Dystopian Writing Prompts

Dystopian worlds explore the dark sides of society, control, and survival.

These prompts are designed to help you create narratives that delve into the complexities of life in a broken world.

  • Write about a society where books are illegal, and knowledge is controlled by the government—how do people resist?
  • Imagine a world where people are divided by the color of their eyes, with each color assigned a specific role—what happens when someone tries to break the rules?
  • Write a story where technology monitors every aspect of life, and one person decides to fight back—how do they find freedom?
  • Imagine a future where emotions are regulated by pills—what happens when someone decides to stop taking them?
  • Write about a society where food is strictly rationed, and one family discovers a secret supply—what do they do?
  • Imagine a world where people are assigned numbers instead of names—how does one person rediscover their identity?
  • Write a story where the government controls who people can marry—what happens when two people defy the law?
  • Imagine a city where the air is toxic, and everyone lives underground—how does one person find a way to the surface?
  • Write about a society where dreams are monitored and controlled—what happens when someone starts dreaming outside the rules?
  • Imagine a world where people must earn the right to have children—how do two people fight for their future family?
  • Write a story where all art and creativity are banned—how does an underground movement keep it alive?
  • Imagine a society where everyone is required to wear masks that change their appearance—what happens when someone refuses?
  • Write about a world where people are only allowed to live until a certain age—how does one person try to extend their life?
  • Imagine a future where the government decides every aspect of life, from jobs to relationships—what happens when someone rebels?
  • Write a story where the world is ruled by corporations, and one employee decides to expose the truth—how do they gather evidence?
  • Imagine a society where the weather is controlled, but one day, it starts behaving unpredictably—how do people react?
  • Write about a world where everyone is connected to a central network, and one person decides to disconnect—what happens next?
  • Imagine a future where history is rewritten daily—how does one person uncover the real past?
  • Write a story where love is forbidden, and two people must hide their relationship—what risks do they take to stay together?
  • Imagine a society where people are ranked by their usefulness—what happens when someone refuses to be ranked?
  • Write about a world where nature has been eradicated, and one person discovers a hidden forest—how do they protect it?
  • Imagine a future where freedom of speech is outlawed—how do people communicate their thoughts and ideas?
  • Write a story where the rich live in luxury while the poor are confined to the slums—how does one person cross the divide?
  • Imagine a society where individuality is discouraged, and everyone must conform—what happens when someone refuses to fit in?
  • Write about a world where education is controlled by the state, and one teacher decides to teach the truth—how do they do it in secret?
  • Imagine a future where people are genetically modified for specific roles—what happens when someone tries to change their destiny?
  • Write a story where the government monitors every word people say—how does one person find a way to speak freely?
  • Imagine a society where travel is restricted, and one person embarks on a forbidden journey—what do they discover?
  • Write about a world where all religions are banned—how do people continue to practice their faith in secret?
  • Imagine a future where robots control every aspect of life—what happens when someone discovers a flaw in the system?
  • Write a story where people are only allowed to remember certain events—how does someone uncover the truth about the past?
  • Imagine a society where every action is judged and scored—what happens when someone starts receiving negative points?
  • Write about a world where people are cloned to perform specific tasks—what happens when a clone develops its own consciousness?
  • Imagine a future where nature has reclaimed the cities—how do people survive in this new world?
  • Write a story where every decision is made by an all-powerful AI—what happens when someone decides to defy the AI’s orders?
  • Imagine a society where emotions are considered dangerous and are suppressed—how does one person rediscover their feelings?
  • Write about a world where all communication is monitored, and a group of rebels finds a way to communicate in secret—how do they do it?
  • Imagine a future where memories can be bought and sold—what happens when someone buys a memory that reveals a dangerous truth?
  • Write a story where the government assigns people their jobs at birth—how does one person fight for a different path?
  • Imagine a society where everyone is born with a bar code that tracks their every move—what happens when someone’s code malfunctions?
  • Write about a world where people are forced to live their lives according to a strict schedule—what happens when someone starts breaking the routine?
  • Imagine a future where water is the most precious resource, and one person discovers a hidden supply—how do they protect it?
  • Write a story where the government controls the population through propaganda—how does one person uncover the truth?
  • Imagine a society where people are punished for their thoughts—what happens when someone finds a way to think freely?
  • Write about a world where the environment has been destroyed, and one person finds a way to restore it—how do they convince others to help?
  • Imagine a future where people live in virtual reality most of the time—what happens when someone decides to live in the real world?
  • Write a story where people are divided into castes, and one person tries to break free from their assigned role—what challenges do they face?
  • Imagine a society where all entertainment is government-approved—how does an underground group create art that challenges the status quo?
  • Write about a world where everyone must wear a device that controls their behavior—what happens when someone finds a way to remove it?
  • Imagine a future where people must earn the right to have their own thoughts—how does one person fight to keep their mind free?

Flash Fiction Writing Prompts

Flash fiction challenges you to tell a complete story in a very short amount of words.

These prompts are designed to inspire concise, impactful narratives that leave a lasting impression.

  • Write about a stranger who leaves a mysterious package on your doorstep—what’s inside and why was it left there?
  • Imagine you find an old photograph that changes everything you thought you knew about your family.
  • Write a story that begins with someone knocking on the wrong door—how does this mistake alter their life?
  • A character wakes up in a place they’ve never been before, with no memory of how they got there—what happens next?
  • Write about a chance encounter that turns out to be anything but coincidental.
  • A child discovers something extraordinary in their backyard—what is it and what do they do?
  • Write a story where the main character is faced with an impossible choice—what do they decide?
  • A letter arrives in the mail, addressed to someone who no longer lives there—what does it say?
  • Write about a character who is hiding something in plain sight—what is it and why are they hiding it?
  • A conversation overheard in a café changes the course of someone’s day—what did they hear?
  • Write a story where a character must say goodbye without using the words “goodbye” or “farewell.”
  • A person finds a key that doesn’t open any door they know of—what does it unlock?
  • Write about a character who receives a phone call from someone they thought was gone forever.
  • A woman finds a note in her pocket that she didn’t put there—what does it say and who put it there?
  • Write a story where a character accidentally discovers a secret about their best friend.
  • A man finds a wallet on the street—what does he do with it, and what does he discover?
  • Write about a character who wakes up with a single memory they can’t explain.
  • A package arrives with no return address—inside is something that changes everything.
  • Write a story that begins with the words, “It wasn’t supposed to happen this way.”
  • A character finds themselves in a room with no doors or windows—how did they get there and how do they escape?
  • Write about a person who realizes they are being followed—what do they do?
  • A child’s drawing predicts the future—how does the family react?
  • Write a story where a character hears a voice that no one else can hear.
  • A character discovers an old letter that was never sent—what does it say and why was it hidden?
  • Write about a character who makes a promise they know they can’t keep.
  • A person finds a strange object in a second-hand store—what is its significance?
  • Write a story where a character must solve a riddle to avoid a catastrophe.
  • A character sees their own obituary in the newspaper—what do they do?
  • Write about a chance meeting that brings back a flood of memories.
  • A character wakes up in a world where no one recognizes them—how do they prove who they are?
  • Write a story where a character receives a message from their future self.
  • A character finds a hidden compartment in their home—what’s inside and how does it change their life?
  • Write about a character who is faced with a decision that could change everything—what do they choose?
  • A person receives a gift with no note—what is it and who sent it?
  • Write a story that takes place entirely during a conversation on a train.
  • A character finds a book that contains their own life story—what do they do when they read the last chapter?
  • Write about a character who discovers something shocking about their past.
  • A person wakes up in a city that has been abandoned—what do they find?
  • Write a story where a character must keep a secret that could save or destroy their life.
  • A character receives a letter from someone they thought they’d never hear from again.
  • Write about a character who finds a note hidden in a library book—what does it say and what do they do?
  • A person returns to a place they vowed never to go back to—why did they return and what happens?
  • Write a story where a character has five minutes to make a life-changing decision.
  • A character hears a knock on their door late at night—who is it and what do they want?
  • Write about a character who finds themselves in a situation where time seems to stop.
  • A person discovers a hidden talent that they’ve had all along—what is it and how do they use it?
  • Write a story where a character receives an anonymous tip that leads them on an unexpected adventure.
  • A character wakes up with no memory of the last 24 hours—what do they do to piece together the missing time?
  • Write about a character who receives a mysterious invitation—where does it lead and what do they find?
  • A person finds a message written in a place where it shouldn’t be—what does it say and who left it?

Character-Driven Writing Prompts

Character-driven stories focus on the development, growth, and challenges of the people in your story.

These prompts are designed to help you create deep, nuanced characters and explore their journeys.

  • Write about a character who has to confront their biggest fear—how do they change as a result?
  • A character receives life-changing news—how do they react, and how does it shape their future?
  • Write a story where a character’s greatest strength becomes their greatest weakness—how do they cope with the fallout?
  • A character is forced to choose between loyalty to a friend and doing what’s right—what do they decide?
  • Write about a character who discovers a hidden talent that changes their life—how do they handle the newfound attention?
  • A character’s life is turned upside down when they receive an unexpected inheritance—how do they deal with it?
  • Write a story where a character is given a second chance at something they thought they’d lost forever—how do they approach it differently?
  • A character who is always in control suddenly finds themselves in a situation where they have no control—how do they adapt?
  • Write about a character who must overcome a deep-seated prejudice—how do they grow and change in the process?
  • A character who has always been a loner is suddenly thrust into a leadership role—how do they handle the responsibility?
  • Write a story where a character’s biggest dream comes true, but it’s not what they expected—how do they adjust?
  • A character is forced to reconcile with someone from their past—what do they learn about themselves?
  • Write about a character who must make a sacrifice for someone they love—how does it change their relationship?
  • A character faces a moral dilemma that challenges their beliefs—what do they decide and why?
  • Write a story where a character must choose between following their head or their heart—how does it affect their future?
  • A character who has always lived by the rules is tempted to break them for the first time—do they give in?
  • Write about a character who is confronted with a truth they’ve been avoiding—how do they face it?
  • A character discovers that their closest friend has been keeping a secret—how do they react?
  • Write a story where a character’s life is changed by a single moment—how do they adapt?
  • A character who has always been afraid of failure decides to take a big risk—what happens?
  • Write about a character who must navigate a difficult relationship—how do they grow from the experience?
  • A character who has everything they’ve ever wanted starts to question if it’s enough—what do they do?
  • Write a story where a character must confront the consequences of a decision they made long ago—how do they handle it?
  • A character who prides themselves on their independence finds themselves needing help—how do they accept it?
  • Write about a character who must let go of something or someone they’ve been holding onto for too long—how do they find peace?
  • A character who has always been a follower is forced to take charge—how do they rise to the challenge?
  • Write a story where a character faces an unexpected betrayal—how do they recover from it?
  • A character is given a choice between their dream job and their personal life—what do they choose and why?
  • Write about a character who must come to terms with a mistake they made—how do they seek redemption?
  • A character who has always been certain of their beliefs starts to question everything—how do they find their way?
  • Write a story where a character’s past catches up with them—how do they face it and move forward?
  • A character who has been running from their problems is forced to confront them—what happens?
  • Write about a character who must forgive someone who hurt them deeply—how do they find the strength?
  • A character who has always been a people-pleaser decides to stand up for themselves—how does it change their relationships?
  • Write a story where a character’s biggest fear comes true—how do they survive and what do they learn?
  • A character who has always relied on others must learn to rely on themselves—how do they grow?
  • Write about a character who has to start over from scratch—how do they rebuild their life?
  • A character who has always been focused on their career is faced with a personal crisis—how do they balance their priorities?
  • Write a story where a character must confront a difficult truth about themselves—how do they change as a result?
  • A character who has always been an outsider finds a place where they belong—how does it change them?
  • Write about a character who must make amends with someone they wronged in the past—how do they seek forgiveness?
  • A character who has lived a sheltered life is suddenly exposed to the harsh realities of the world—how do they adapt?
  • Write a story where a character is forced to confront their greatest regret—how do they find closure?
  • A character who has always been a perfectionist learns to accept their flaws—how does it change their outlook on life?
  • Write about a character who discovers a hidden strength they didn’t know they had—how do they use it to overcome a challenge?
  • A character who has been living a lie decides to come clean—what happens when the truth is revealed?
  • Write a story where a character has to choose between two paths—one safe and familiar, the other risky and unknown—what do they choose and why?
  • A character who has always been defined by their past decides to reinvent themselves—how do they go about it?
  • Write about a character who must let go of a dream they’ve held onto for years—how do they find new purpose?
  • A character who has been afraid to trust others finally opens up—how does it change their relationships and their life?

Food-Related Writing Prompts

Food is more than just sustenance; it’s culture, memory, and emotion. These prompts are designed to help you explore the rich and flavorful stories that can be told through food.

  • Write about a character who opens a restaurant with a menu inspired by their grandmother’s recipes—how do the dishes connect them to their past?
  • Imagine a world where people communicate their emotions through the meals they prepare—what stories unfold at the dinner table?
  • Write a story where a character discovers a secret ingredient that transforms their cooking—how does it change their life?
  • A family recipe book is passed down through generations—write about the significance of one particular recipe and its impact on each family member.
  • Imagine a character who starts a food truck that becomes the talk of the town—what unique dish are they known for, and how do they handle the fame?
  • Write about a character who travels the world in search of the perfect meal—what do they find, and how does it change them?
  • A baker wakes up one morning with the ability to create pastries that evoke specific memories—how do they use this gift?
  • Imagine a town where every year, the community comes together for a grand feast—what happens when someone introduces a controversial dish?
  • Write a story where a character judges a high-stakes cooking competition—how do they decide the winner, and what personal biases come into play?
  • A character who has always hated cooking is forced to prepare a meal for someone they care about—how do they manage, and what does it mean to them?
  • Imagine a character who writes a food blog that suddenly gains a massive following—how do they handle the pressure, and what stories do they share?
  • Write about a character who runs a failing restaurant until they discover a forgotten recipe that brings customers flooding in—what is the story behind the recipe?
  • A character finds an old cookbook in a second-hand store—when they start cooking from it, they notice strange things happening—what’s the secret of the cookbook?
  • Imagine a world where every meal eaten adds or subtracts years from a person’s life—how do people choose what to eat?
  • Write about a character who becomes obsessed with recreating a dish they had once but can never seem to get right—what drives their obsession?
  • A small town is known for a unique food festival—write about a character who decides to enter the festival’s main event for the first time.
  • Imagine a chef who discovers a new spice that becomes the next big thing in cuisine—how does it change the culinary world and their career?
  • Write a story where a character’s life changes after they start a food diary—what do they learn about themselves through their eating habits?
  • A character finds themselves in a foreign country with no knowledge of the language—how do they navigate the local food culture?
  • Imagine a character who cooks as a way to cope with loss—how does the act of preparing food help them heal?
  • Write about a character who is a food critic but loses their sense of taste—how do they adapt to their new reality?
  • A character discovers a hidden restaurant in an unexpected place—what is the story behind it, and how do they find it?
  • Imagine a story where two rival chefs are forced to collaborate on a dish—how do their different styles and personalities clash?
  • Write about a character who is trying to recreate their mother’s signature dish but keeps failing—what do they learn in the process?
  • A character attends a mysterious dinner party where each course reveals something about their past—what secrets come to light?
  • Imagine a character who starts a food blog to document their journey of learning to cook—how do they evolve as both a cook and a writer?
  • Write about a character who runs a bakery famous for one particular pastry—what happens when a competitor tries to replicate it?
  • A character is invited to a prestigious cooking school but feels out of place—how do they find their own culinary voice?
  • Imagine a world where the taste of food can influence people’s emotions—how do chefs wield this power?
  • Write about a character who finds a recipe for a dish that was thought to be lost to time—what is the story behind it?
  • A character enters a pie-eating contest to win money for a cause close to their heart—what challenges do they face?
  • Imagine a character who opens a pop-up restaurant in an unusual location—how do they attract customers, and what makes the experience unique?
  • Write about a character who runs a farm-to-table restaurant—what challenges do they face in maintaining the quality and integrity of their food?
  • A character who has always been a picky eater decides to try new foods for the first time—how does this journey change them?
  • Imagine a food critic who must write a review of the worst meal they’ve ever had—how do they balance honesty with kindness?
  • Write about a character who discovers a secret underground dining club—what kind of people are involved, and what do they eat?
  • A character is known for their incredible food photography—write about the story behind their most famous shot.
  • Imagine a world where food is the currency—how do people trade, and what are the most valuable dishes?
  • Write about a character who has to prepare a meal using only ingredients they’ve never used before—how do they tackle the challenge?
  • A character inherits a family-owned restaurant that’s been in business for generations—how do they keep the legacy alive while bringing in new ideas?
  • Imagine a cooking show where the contestants are everyday people with extraordinary stories—what are the most memorable dishes and moments?
  • Write about a character who starts a catering business but quickly finds themselves in over their head—how do they manage?
  • A character receives a cookbook as a gift from a mysterious sender—when they start using it, strange things begin to happen.
  • Imagine a food market that only appears once a year and offers ingredients no one has ever seen before—what does a character discover there?
  • Write about a character who travels back in time and experiences the food of a different era—how does it compare to what they know?
  • A character is invited to cook at a celebrity’s home—what happens when the meal doesn’t go as planned?
  • Imagine a character who starts a food tour business, taking people to the best hidden spots in their city—what secrets do they uncover?
  • Write about a character who finds comfort in cooking for others—how do their meals bring people together?
  • A character is tasked with creating a new dish that represents their hometown—what ingredients and flavors do they use?
  • Imagine a world where food can reveal a person’s true nature—how do people react when a character serves a dish that exposes their secrets?

Dream-Inspired Writing Prompts

Dreams can be strange, surreal, and symbolic.

These prompts are designed to help you explore the boundaries between reality and the subconscious, crafting stories that blur the lines between waking life and dreams.

  • Write about a character who keeps having the same dream every night—what message is the dream trying to convey?
  • Imagine a world where people can enter each other’s dreams—what happens when someone starts using this power for their own gain?
  • Write a story where a character’s dream comes true, but with unexpected consequences—how do they deal with the fallout?
  • A character finds themselves in a dream that feels more real than reality—what do they discover about themselves in this dream world?
  • Imagine a character who wakes up from a vivid dream with a strange object in their hand—how did it get there, and what does it mean?
  • Write about a character who can’t distinguish between dreams and reality—how do they navigate their increasingly blurred world?
  • A character meets someone in their dream who gives them crucial advice—what happens when they follow it in real life?
  • Imagine a world where people can choose the dreams they want to have—how does this ability change society?
  • Write a story where a character realizes they are a part of someone else’s dream—how do they react, and what do they do?
  • A character dreams of a place they’ve never been before, but it feels strangely familiar—what is the significance of this place?
  • Imagine a character who can control their dreams, shaping them into whatever they desire—what do they create, and why?
  • Write about a character who starts dreaming in another language—what do the dreams reveal, and how do they impact their waking life?
  • A character dreams about a person they’ve never met, but who knows everything about them—how do they find this person in real life?
  • Imagine a character who begins to experience other people’s dreams—how do they deal with the emotions and stories they encounter?
  • Write a story where a character’s dream predicts the future—how do they respond to the events as they start to unfold?
  • A character has a dream that reveals a hidden truth about their past—how do they investigate this revelation in the waking world?
  • Imagine a character who becomes trapped in a recurring nightmare—how do they escape, and what does the nightmare represent?
  • Write about a character who shares a dream with someone else—what does it mean, and how does it affect their relationship?
  • A character dreams of an alternate version of their life—how do they reconcile this with their reality?
  • Imagine a character who can’t wake up from a dream—they must solve a puzzle within the dream to return to the real world.
  • Write a story where a character’s dreams are being manipulated by someone else—what is the manipulator’s motive?
  • A character discovers they can enter the dreams of others at will—what do they use this power for, and what consequences do they face?
  • Imagine a character who wakes up with memories from their dreams that don’t belong to them—whose memories are they, and what do they do with them?
  • Write about a character who dreams of a loved one who has passed away—what message does the loved one have, and how does it impact the character’s life?
  • A character starts experiencing dreams where they live different lives in different times—how do these experiences change their perspective?
  • Imagine a world where people can be punished for their dreams—what happens when a character is accused of having a forbidden dream?
  • Write a story where a character’s dreams start leaking into reality—how do they manage the chaos that ensues?
  • A character dreams of a disaster before it happens—how do they try to prevent it, and what challenges do they face?
  • Imagine a character who enters a dreamscape where all their fears come to life—how do they confront and overcome them?
  • Write about a character who discovers a hidden talent or ability through their dreams—how do they develop and use it in real life?
  • A character dreams about a perfect day, only to wake up and find themselves living it—how do they handle the surreal experience?
  • Imagine a world where people are required to share their dreams publicly—how does this affect personal privacy and relationships?
  • Write a story where a character dreams of meeting their soulmate—what happens when they find this person in real life?
  • A character begins dreaming about events from a different time period—how do these dreams connect to their present life?
  • Imagine a character who can enter their dreams to escape reality—what do they do when they start preferring the dream world over the real one?
  • Write about a character who starts receiving messages in their dreams from an unknown source—how do they decode and respond to these messages?
  • A character dreams of a future where the world is very different—how do they prepare for what they believe is coming?
  • Imagine a character who can revisit the same dream every night, continuing the story from where they left off—what journey do they embark on?
  • Write a story where a character’s dreams reveal a hidden talent that has been suppressed—how do they bring this talent into their waking life?
  • A character dreams of a place where they can be their true self—how do they bring aspects of this dream self into reality?
  • Imagine a character who finds out that their dreams are being watched and studied by an organization—how do they react?
  • Write about a character who begins to dream of someone they’ve never met, but who becomes very important to them—how do they find this person?
  • A character dreams of solving a mystery they’ve been struggling with in real life—how does the dream guide them to the truth?
  • Imagine a world where people can share dreams with one another—what happens when a character shares a dream that was meant to be private?
  • Write a story where a character’s dreams are filled with symbols and clues that lead them to a hidden treasure—how do they interpret these signs?
  • A character dreams of their ideal life—what do they do when they wake up and realize how different their reality is?
  • Imagine a character who discovers that their dreams are being influenced by an external force—how do they fight to regain control?
  • Write about a character who dreams of a long-lost friend—what do they do when they wake up with a strong urge to reconnect?
  • A character starts dreaming of events that are happening in real-time to someone else—how do they use this knowledge to help?
  • Imagine a character who learns a crucial skill in their dreams—how do they apply it when they wake up, and what challenges do they face?

Self-Reflection Writing Prompts

Self-reflection prompts encourage introspection and personal growth.

These prompts are designed to help you explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences, leading to deeper understanding and self-awareness.

  • Write about a moment in your life when you felt truly at peace—what brought you to that place, and how did it change you?
  • Reflect on a decision you made that significantly altered the course of your life—would you make the same choice again?
  • Think about a time when you felt completely misunderstood—how did you handle the situation, and what did you learn from it?
  • Write about a fear you’ve faced—how did you overcome it, and how has it shaped who you are today?
  • Remember a time when you experienced a meaningful connection with someone—what made that connection special, and how did it impact you?
  • Consider a situation where you had to choose between your head and your heart—what did you decide, and how do you feel about that choice now?
  • Write about a time when you felt like a failure—how did you pick yourself up, and what lessons did you take away?
  • Reflect on a moment when you felt incredibly proud of yourself—what did you accomplish, and why was it significant to you?
  • Think about a time when you were at a crossroads in your life—how did you choose your path, and where has it led you?
  • Write about a relationship that taught you an important life lesson—what was the lesson, and how has it influenced your future relationships?
  • Reflect on a time when you felt completely lost—how did you find your way back, and what did you discover about yourself in the process?
  • Consider a moment when you had to stand up for what you believed in—what was the outcome, and how did it shape your values?
  • Write about a dream or goal you’ve had for a long time—how close are you to achieving it, and what has the journey taught you?
  • Reflect on a time when you felt truly happy—what were the circumstances, and how can you recreate that feeling in your life today?
  • Think about a mistake you made that had significant consequences—how did you handle the aftermath, and what did you learn?
  • Write about a moment when you felt completely out of your comfort zone—how did you adapt, and what did you learn about yourself?
  • Reflect on a time when you had to forgive someone—how did you find the strength to do it, and how did it affect your relationship?
  • Consider a period in your life when you experienced significant change—how did you cope, and how has it influenced who you are today?
  • Write about a person who has had a profound impact on your life—what did they teach you, and how have you carried their lessons forward?
  • Reflect on a time when you felt overwhelmed by life—how did you manage your stress, and what strategies helped you regain control?
  • Think about a moment when you had to let go of something or someone important to you—how did you find closure, and what did you learn in the process?
  • Write about a challenge you faced that seemed insurmountable—how did you overcome it, and what strengths did you discover in yourself?
  • Reflect on a time when you were your own worst critic—how did you learn to be kinder to yourself, and how has it changed your outlook?
  • Consider a decision you made that went against the advice of others—how did it turn out, and what did you learn about trusting yourself?
  • Write about a time when you felt disconnected from yourself—how did you reconnect, and what did you discover about your needs and desires?
  • Reflect on a moment when you experienced a deep sense of gratitude—what were you thankful for, and how has it shaped your perspective?
  • Think about a time when you had to be brave—how did you muster the courage, and what was the outcome?
  • Write about a period in your life when you felt stuck—how did you get moving again, and what did you learn about perseverance?
  • Reflect on a time when you had to admit you were wrong—how did you handle it, and what did you learn about humility?
  • Consider a relationship that didn’t work out—what did you learn from the experience, and how has it influenced your approach to relationships?
  • Write about a time when you felt incredibly vulnerable—how did you protect yourself, and what did you learn about trust?
  • Reflect on a moment when you had to make a difficult decision—what was at stake, and how did you choose?
  • Think about a period in your life when you were seeking direction—how did you find your way, and what did you learn about your values and priorities?
  • Write about a goal you set for yourself that you haven’t yet achieved—what’s holding you back, and how can you move forward?
  • Reflect on a time when you experienced a significant loss—how did you cope, and how has it shaped your perspective on life?
  • Consider a moment when you had to take a leap of faith—what was the outcome, and how did it change you?
  • Write about a time when you felt truly at peace with yourself—what were the circumstances, and how can you bring that peace into your life today?
  • Reflect on a time when you had to confront a difficult truth—how did you face it, and what did you learn about honesty and integrity?
  • Think about a period in your life when you were striving for something—what did you achieve, and how did the journey shape you?
  • Write about a time when you had to navigate a major life transition—how did you manage the change, and what did you learn about adaptability?
  • Reflect on a moment when you felt deeply connected to someone—what created that bond, and how has it influenced your relationships?
  • Consider a time when you had to make a sacrifice for someone else—how did it affect your relationship, and what did you learn about selflessness?
  • Write about a time when you felt completely content—what brought you to that place, and how can you maintain that sense of contentment in your life?
  • Reflect on a moment when you felt like giving up—how did you keep going, and what did you learn about resilience?
  • Think about a time when you had to trust someone else completely—how did you manage your fears, and what did you learn about vulnerability?
  • Write about a moment when you realized something important about yourself—how did this realization change you?
  • Reflect on a time when you had to balance competing priorities—how did you find harmony, and what did you learn about balance?
  • Consider a relationship that has grown over time—how has it changed, and what have you learned about growth and commitment?
  • Write about a period in your life when you felt out of control—how did you regain your footing, and what did you learn about stability?
  • Reflect on a time when you experienced a breakthrough—what led to it, and how has it changed your life?

Historical Fiction Writing Prompts

Historical fiction allows you to step into the past and explore the lives of people in different times and places.

These prompts are designed to help you create rich, immersive stories that blend history with imagination.

  • Write about a young girl growing up during the Great Depression—how does she find hope in difficult times?
  • Imagine you are a soldier in the trenches during World War I—what do you experience, and how do you cope with the horrors of war?
  • Write a story about a woman who becomes a spy during the Cold War—how does she navigate the dangers and intrigue of espionage?
  • Imagine you are a merchant on the Silk Road in ancient times—what goods do you trade, and what adventures do you encounter?
  • Write about a family living in ancient Rome during the height of the empire—how do they navigate the politics and culture of the time?
  • Imagine you are a sailor on one of Christopher Columbus’s voyages—what do you discover, and how do you feel about your journey?
  • Write a story about a young apprentice working in a medieval castle—what skills do they learn, and what secrets do they uncover?
  • Imagine you are a member of the Underground Railroad helping slaves escape to freedom—what risks do you take, and what motivates you?
  • Write about a person living through the Black Death in medieval Europe—how do they survive, and what do they witness?
  • Imagine you are a Native American witnessing the arrival of European settlers—how do you respond, and what changes do you foresee?
  • Write a story about a woman who disguises herself as a man to fight in the American Civil War—what challenges does she face, and how does she manage to keep her secret?
  • Imagine you are a child growing up during the Renaissance—how do you experience the art, science, and culture of the time?
  • Write about a family living in colonial America—how do they contribute to the community, and what challenges do they face?
  • Imagine you are a Viking on a raid in England—what do you experience, and how do you feel about your life as a warrior?
  • Write a story about a young woman involved in the suffragette movement—what motivates her, and what obstacles does she overcome?
  • Imagine you are a peasant living in a feudal village in medieval Europe—how do you navigate the hardships and struggles of daily life?
  • Write about a person living in ancient Egypt during the construction of the pyramids—what is their role, and how do they view the pharaohs and gods?
  • Imagine you are a member of the French Resistance during World War II—how do you carry out your missions, and what dangers do you face?
  • Write a story about a family trying to survive during the Dust Bowl—how do they cope with the harsh conditions and uncertainty of the time?
  • Imagine you are a knight during the Crusades—what motivates you to fight, and what do you encounter on your journey?
  • Write about a young artist living in Paris during the Impressionist movement—how do they find inspiration, and what challenges do they face in the art world?
  • Imagine you are a sailor on a whaling ship in the 19th century—what dangers do you face at sea, and how do you cope with life on board?
  • Write a story about a person who witnesses the signing of the Declaration of Independence—what do they feel about the birth of a new nation?
  • Imagine you are an explorer in the Amazon during the age of exploration—what do you discover, and how do you interact with the indigenous peoples?
  • Write about a child living in the American South during the Civil Rights Movement—how do they perceive the changes happening around them?
  • Imagine you are a member of a royal court in Tudor England—what intrigues and plots do you witness, and how do you navigate the treacherous environment?
  • Write a story about a family living in Berlin during the Cold War—how do they cope with the division of their city and the constant threat of conflict?
  • Imagine you are a miner during the California Gold Rush—what do you experience in your search for fortune, and what do you learn about the nature of greed and hope?
  • Write about a woman who becomes a doctor during the early 20th century—how does she break through the barriers of a male-dominated profession, and what challenges does she face?
  • Imagine you are a Native American leader negotiating with European settlers—how do you balance the needs of your people with the pressures of colonization?
  • Write a story about a person who lives through the Spanish Inquisition—how do they survive the religious persecution, and what do they witness?
  • Imagine you are a journalist covering the Vietnam War—what stories do you tell, and how do you cope with the horrors you see?
  • Write about a character who participates in the Boston Tea Party—how do they feel about the rebellion, and what risks do they take?
  • Imagine you are a samurai in feudal Japan—what is your code of honor, and how do you navigate the challenges of loyalty and duty?
  • Write a story about a person living in Victorian London during the height of the Industrial Revolution—how do they adapt to the rapid changes in society?
  • Imagine you are a young woman in ancient Greece attending the first Olympic Games—what do you witness, and how does the experience shape your view of the world?
  • Write about a character who is a scientist during the Enlightenment—what discoveries do they make, and how do they challenge the established beliefs of their time?
  • Imagine you are a member of a Native American tribe witnessing the construction of the Transcontinental Railroad—how do you feel about the changes it brings?
  • Write a story about a person who joins the abolitionist movement—what drives them to fight for the end of slavery, and what risks do they take?
  • Imagine you are an immigrant arriving at Ellis Island in the early 20th century—what hopes and fears do you have as you begin your new life in America?
  • Write about a person who is a part of the Harlem Renaissance—how do they contribute to the cultural explosion, and what impact does it have on their life?
  • Imagine you are a Roman senator during the fall of the Roman Empire—how do you perceive the decline, and what do you do to try to save it?
  • Write a story about a person who lives through the Great Fire of London—how do they survive the disaster, and what do they do in its aftermath?
  • Imagine you are a member of the women’s suffrage movement in early 20th century England—what challenges do you face, and how do you fight for the right to vote?
  • Write about a person who is a soldier in Napoleon’s army—how do they view the conquests of Europe, and what do they experience on the battlefield?
  • Imagine you are a child living in ancient China during the construction of the Great Wall—how does this massive project affect your family and community?
  • Write a story about a person who participates in the Salem witch trials—how do they view the hysteria, and what role do they play in the events?
  • Imagine you are a member of a medieval guild—what is your craft, and how do you navigate the politics and competition within your trade?
  • Write about a person who witnesses the fall of the Berlin Wall—how do they feel about the reunification of Germany, and what changes do they experience?
  • Imagine you are a nurse during the Crimean War—what do you witness on the battlefield, and how do you care for the wounded soldiers?

Adventure Writing Prompts

Adventure stories are all about thrilling exploits, dangerous journeys, and the pursuit of the unknown. These prompts are designed to inspire tales of daring and exploration.

  • Write about a character who discovers a hidden cave while hiking—what do they find inside, and how does it change their life?
  • Imagine a group of friends sets out on a cross-country road trip—what unexpected challenges do they face along the way?
  • Write a story where a character embarks on a quest to find a legendary treasure—what dangers do they encounter, and what do they learn?
  • A character is shipwrecked on a deserted island—how do they survive, and what mysteries do they uncover?
  • Imagine you are part of an expedition to climb a previously unconquered mountain—what obstacles do you face, and how do you overcome them?
  • Write about a character who sets out to explore an uncharted jungle—what do they discover, and how do they deal with the dangers of the wild?
  • A young explorer finds an ancient map—what journey do they embark on, and what do they find at the end?
  • Imagine a character who takes a journey to the center of the Earth—what strange worlds and creatures do they encounter?
  • Write a story where a character goes on a deep-sea dive and discovers an underwater civilization—how do they interact with the inhabitants?
  • A character is sent on a mission to retrieve a stolen artifact—what challenges do they face, and how do they succeed?
  • Imagine you’re part of a team exploring a distant planet—what new life forms do you encounter, and what secrets does the planet hold?
  • Write about a character who stumbles upon a portal to another dimension—what adventures await them on the other side?
  • A character must navigate through a dense, enchanted forest—what magical creatures and obstacles do they encounter?
  • Imagine a group of adventurers who are tasked with rescuing a kidnapped royal—how do they plan and execute the daring rescue?
  • Write a story where a character is on the run from a powerful enemy—what lengths do they go to in order to stay alive?
  • A character discovers a lost city buried beneath the sands of a vast desert—what treasures and dangers do they find?
  • Imagine a character who sets sail on a solo voyage across the ocean—what trials do they face, and what do they discover about themselves?
  • Write about a character who joins a group of treasure hunters—what is the ultimate prize, and what sacrifices are made along the way?
  • A character sets out to find a legendary beast—what do they discover, and how does the journey change them?
  • Imagine a world where the oceans are filled with uncharted islands—write about an explorer who maps them out and what they find.
  • Write a story where a character must survive a journey through a harsh and unforgiving environment—how do they overcome the elements?
  • A character is caught in a race against time to stop a disaster—what do they do, and how do they succeed?
  • Imagine a character who uncovers a secret society that controls the world—how do they infiltrate it, and what do they do with the knowledge?
  • Write about a character who sets out to find a lost civilization—what do they discover, and how do they protect their findings from those who wish to exploit them?
  • A character is thrown into a world of high-stakes adventure when they find themselves in possession of a powerful artifact—what do they do?
  • Imagine a character who is the sole survivor of a plane crash in a remote wilderness—how do they survive, and how do they get home?
  • Write a story where a character takes part in a dangerous race through treacherous terrain—what motivates them, and how do they overcome the odds?
  • A character must cross a vast, unexplored region of the world—what do they find, and how do they survive the journey?
  • Imagine a character who is chosen to lead an expedition to the North Pole—what do they encounter in the frozen wasteland?
  • Write about a character who is caught in a storm while sailing—how do they survive, and what do they discover when the storm clears?
  • A character finds a clue to a long-lost treasure hidden in a famous landmark—what journey do they embark on to uncover it?
  • Imagine a group of adventurers who are hired to protect a caravan traveling through dangerous territory—what challenges do they face?
  • Write a story where a character goes on a quest to find a mythical object that grants immense power—how do they deal with the temptation it brings?
  • A character must navigate a series of deadly traps in order to reach their goal—what drives them to succeed, and what do they learn?
  • Imagine a character who is stranded in the wilderness with only their wits and a few supplies—how do they survive, and what dangers do they face?
  • Write about a character who is thrust into an adventure when they discover a hidden world beneath their city—what do they find there?
  • A character is on the run after stealing a valuable item from a powerful organization—how do they stay one step ahead, and what is their ultimate plan?
  • Imagine a character who must journey to the top of a mysterious tower that no one has ever climbed—what do they discover as they ascend?
  • Write a story where a character is recruited by a secret organization to go on a mission of global importance—what do they have to do, and how do they succeed?
  • A character sets out to find a cure for a deadly disease ravaging their homeland—what challenges do they face, and what sacrifices do they make?
  • Imagine a character who must survive a journey through a haunted forest—what supernatural forces do they encounter, and how do they escape?
  • Write about a character who discovers an ancient relic that holds the key to a long-forgotten mystery—what do they do with it, and what dangers do they face?
  • A character embarks on a dangerous expedition to recover a lost artifact from a remote temple—what trials do they face, and what do they find?
  • Imagine a character who must navigate a labyrinth filled with deadly creatures and traps—what drives them to succeed, and how do they survive?
  • Write a story where a character is forced to embark on a perilous journey to save a loved one—what do they learn about themselves along the way?
  • A character is sent on a mission to explore a mysterious island that has appeared out of nowhere—what do they find, and how does it change them?
  • Imagine a character who is caught in a battle between two powerful forces—how do they navigate the conflict, and what role do they play in the outcome?
  • Write about a character who is searching for a legendary lost city—what do they discover, and how do they protect its secrets?
  • A character must survive a journey through a treacherous mountain pass during a fierce winter storm—how do they make it through?
  • Imagine a character who is on a quest to find a mythical creature—what challenges do they face, and what do they learn from the journey?

Alternate Reality Writing Prompts

Alternate realities explore what might have been if the world were different in some fundamental way.

These prompts are designed to help you imagine new versions of reality and explore the consequences of those differences.

  • Imagine a world where everyone is born with the ability to read minds—how does this change society, and what challenges arise?
  • Write about a reality where technology never advanced beyond the 1800s—how does this affect daily life and global politics?
  • Imagine a world where everyone has a predetermined soulmate, but they can only meet under specific circumstances—how do people navigate love and relationships?
  • Write a story where history took a different turn—what if the Roman Empire never fell, or if World War II ended differently?
  • Imagine a world where people can switch bodies with each other at will—how does this affect identity and relationships?
  • Write about a society where emotions are outlawed, and everyone must take medication to remain calm—what happens when someone stops taking their pills?
  • Imagine a reality where magic is real and integrated into everyday life—how do people use it, and what are the rules?
  • Write a story where humans have colonized space, but Earth is off-limits—what is life like in this new interstellar civilization?
  • Imagine a world where everyone’s future is predetermined and known from birth—how do people cope with their destinies?
  • Write about an alternate reality where the environment is the central focus of society, and technology is designed to enhance nature rather than exploit it.
  • Imagine a world where people can relive any moment of their past whenever they choose—how does this ability affect their lives?
  • Write a story where a small change in the past leads to a drastically different present—what is the new world like, and how do people adapt?
  • Imagine a reality where dreams are shared experiences that multiple people can participate in—how does this change the way people interact and communicate?
  • Write about a world where every decision creates a new parallel universe—how do people navigate the infinite possibilities of their lives?
  • Imagine a society where art and creativity are the most valued skills, and everyone is expected to contribute to the cultural wealth—how does this affect personal ambition and competition?
  • Write a story where the seasons last for decades instead of months—how does this change the way people live and work?
  • Imagine a world where everyone has a personal AI companion that guides their decisions—how does this affect free will and individuality?
  • Imagine a world where humans are nocturnal and live by moonlight—how does society function?
  • What if everyone was born with a countdown clock on their wrist, showing when they’ll meet their soulmate?
  • A world where books are living entities—what stories do they tell themselves?
  • Imagine a reality where gravity shifts randomly—how do people cope?
  • What if colors were a form of currency—how would the world look?
  • A society where all animals can speak—how does this change human behavior?
  • What if people aged backwards from old age to infancy?
  • Imagine a world where every lie is physically painful—how do people communicate?
  • What if everyone’s thoughts were broadcast on a public screen?
  • A reality where food provides emotions instead of nutrition—how do people eat?
  • Imagine a world where the weather is controlled by a vote—what happens in times of disagreement?
  • A world where names change every day—how do people maintain their identity?
  • What if the oceans were solid and the land was liquid?
  • Imagine a world where music can manipulate time—how is this power used?
  • What if everyone had a shadow that acted independently?
  • A reality where humans have wings—what does society look like?
  • Imagine a world where dreams are taxed—what dreams are worth paying for?
  • What if every building could move—how does architecture evolve?
  • A society where all emotions are color-coded—how do people express themselves?
  • What if the sun never set—how do people sleep?
  • Imagine a world where people can trade memories—what memories are most valuable?
  • A reality where people are assigned a new personality every year.
  • What if people communicated through scents instead of language?
  • Imagine a world where all history is forgotten every 50 years—how is knowledge preserved?
  • A society where technology is powered by emotions—what happens when someone gets angry?
  • What if animals ruled the world and humans were their pets?
  • Imagine a reality where everyone has a unique superpower, but they only get it once.
  • A world where every person has a different law of physics applied to them.
  • What if all plants were sentient and could move—how would farming change?
  • Imagine a society where people can choose their own dreams each night—what do they choose?
  • A reality where everyone lives in their own separate time zone—how do people interact?
  • What if memories could be uploaded and shared like videos?
  • Write about a world where emotions are used like currency.

Philosophical Writing Prompts

Now let’s look at some prompts with a philosphical slant.

  • What if free will is an illusion—how does society function?
  • A world where people live forever—what is the meaning of life?
  • What if truth could be measured—how do people handle honesty?
  • Imagine a society where everyone knows the exact date of their death—how do they live?
  • What if people could exchange parts of their personality—what would be the most valuable traits?
  • A world where happiness is mandatory—what happens to those who refuse?
  • What if love was a finite resource—how is it distributed?
  • Imagine a reality where suffering is seen as the highest form of achievement—how do people pursue it?
  • What if justice was determined by an algorithm—how does it change the legal system?
  • A world where empathy is a commodity—who controls its distribution?
  • What if every action had an immediate visible consequence—how do people behave?
  • Imagine a society where individuals are ranked by their moral decisions—what challenges arise?
  • What if people could only speak the truth—how would relationships change?
  • A reality where everyone can see their future—how do they react?
  • What if humans had to renew their life every 10 years—how do they prove their worth?
  • Imagine a world where people could choose to live in a utopia, but only at the cost of someone else’s suffering—who makes the choice?
  • What if knowledge was considered dangerous—how is it controlled?
  • A society where memory is selective—what memories do people choose to keep?
  • What if reality could be rewritten by those in power—how do people resist?
  • Imagine a world where every decision is made by consensus—how does it affect progress?
  • What if guilt could be transferred from one person to another?
  • A society where death is celebrated as a new beginning—how is life viewed?
  • What if everyone’s purpose was assigned at birth—how do people accept it?
  • Imagine a reality where the meaning of life is a known fact—how do people respond?
  • What if morality was scientifically proven—how does it affect human behavior?
  • A world where every lie reduces your lifespan—how do people communicate?
  • What if people could erase their worst memories—would they choose to?
  • Imagine a society where pleasure is the ultimate goal—how is it achieved?
  • What if every person was born with a specific destiny—how do they fulfill it?
  • A reality where every thought is monitored—how does it affect freedom?
  • What if people could physically carry their burdens—how do they manage them?
  • Imagine a world where knowledge is inherited—what are the implications for education?
  • What if reality was a shared dream—how do people influence it?
  • A society where death is optional—who chooses to die and why?
  • What if people could switch bodies at will—how does it affect identity?
  • Imagine a reality where suffering is eliminated—what becomes the purpose of life?
  • What if truth is subjective—how do people navigate different realities?
  • A world where everyone has a moral compass that can never be ignored—what happens when it conflicts with society’s laws?
  • What if time travel was possible, but only to correct mistakes—who gets to decide what to fix?
  • Imagine a society where people are judged by their intentions rather than their actions—how does it change justice?
  • What if love could be quantified and measured—how does it change relationships?
  • A reality where everyone is born knowing the ultimate truth—how do they live their lives?
  • What if the pursuit of happiness was illegal—how do people find fulfillment?
  • Imagine a world where thoughts create reality—how do people control their minds?
  • What if every person could experience the life of another for a day—how does it change their perspective?
  • A society where logic and emotion are in constant conflict—how do people find balance?
  • What if every action was judged by future generations—how does it affect behavior?
  • Imagine a reality where morality is a currency—what happens to those who go bankrupt?
  • What if people could trade their virtues—what would be most valuable?
  • A world where forgiveness is mandatory—how do people navigate relationships?

Inspirational Writing Prompts

Inspiration comes from many sources—overcoming challenges, finding strength in adversity, or discovering new perspectives.

These prompts are designed to help you craft uplifting and motivational stories.

  • Write about a character who turns a personal tragedy into a powerful message of hope.
  • Imagine someone who overcomes their biggest fear—how does it change their life?
  • A person is inspired by a random act of kindness—what do they do to pay it forward?
  • Write about a community that comes together to rebuild after a disaster.
  • A character finds their true purpose after a series of failures—what motivates them to keep going?
  • Imagine someone who starts a movement for positive change—how do they inspire others?
  • Write about a character who transforms their life after a chance encounter with a stranger.
  • A person takes a leap of faith and it leads to unexpected success—how do they handle it?
  • Write about a mentor who helps a struggling student find their potential.
  • Imagine a character who finds strength in a difficult situation and becomes a role model for others.
  • A character discovers the power of forgiveness—how does it heal them?
  • Write about a person who refuses to give up on their dream, despite overwhelming odds.
  • A character finds inspiration in nature—how does it guide their journey?
  • Imagine someone who turns their hobby into a successful career—what challenges do they face?
  • Write about a person who inspires others by living their truth, even when it’s hard.
  • A character overcomes self-doubt and achieves something they never thought possible.
  • Imagine a community that unites to protect a cherished tradition—how do they succeed?
  • Write about someone who helps others find their inner strength in tough times.
  • A person’s positive outlook changes the lives of those around them—how do they spread their joy?
  • Imagine a character who rebuilds their life after losing everything—how do they start over?
  • Write about a person who turns a simple idea into something that changes the world.
  • A character finds hope in the darkest of times—how do they keep going?
  • Imagine someone who inspires others through their unwavering dedication to a cause.
  • Write about a character who discovers that their biggest weakness is actually their greatest strength.
  • A person helps others find beauty in everyday life—how do they spread their message?
  • Imagine a character who changes the course of their life after a life-altering event.
  • Write about someone who finds the courage to stand up for what they believe in.
  • A person uses their talents to bring people together—how do they make a difference?
  • Imagine a character who inspires a whole community to work towards a common goal.
  • Write about a person who finds peace and fulfillment by following their passion.
  • A character overcomes adversity to achieve something extraordinary—how do they inspire others?
  • Imagine someone who finds a way to bring joy to others, even in difficult circumstances.
  • Write about a person who leads by example, showing others how to live a meaningful life.
  • A character turns their life around by focusing on what truly matters—how do they inspire others to do the same?
  • Imagine someone who turns their pain into art—how does it impact the world?
  • Write about a person who finds hope and purpose through helping others.
  • A character discovers the importance of self-love—how do they teach others to value themselves?
  • Imagine a community that thrives through cooperation and mutual support—how do they maintain it?
  • Write about a person who inspires others to see the good in the world, even when it’s hard to find.
  • A character finds their voice and uses it to make a positive change—how do they impact those around them?
  • Imagine someone who turns a small act of kindness into a movement that changes lives.
  • Write about a person who finds joy in simple things—how do they inspire others to do the same?
  • A character’s resilience in the face of hardship inspires a community—how do they lead by example?
  • Imagine a person who uses their experiences to mentor others—how do they create lasting change?
  • Write about someone who finds happiness by giving back to others—how do they spread their positivity?
  • A character overcomes a major obstacle and becomes a beacon of hope for others—how do they inspire change?
  • Imagine someone who turns their struggles into a story of triumph—how do they share their journey with the world?
  • Write about a person who dedicates their life to helping others find happiness—how do they create a legacy of love?
  • A character discovers the power of gratitude—how do they transform their life and those around them?
  • Imagine a person who turns their life around through sheer determination—how do they inspire others to do the same?

Humor Writing Prompts

Humor brings lightness to life, turning the mundane into the hilarious and the challenging into the absurd.

These prompts are designed to help you craft stories that make readers laugh out loud.

  • Write about a character who has the worst luck—how do they find themselves in one ridiculous situation after another?
  • Imagine a world where everyone takes everything literally—what misunderstandings ensue?
  • A character tries to impress someone by pretending to be an expert—what happens when they’re asked to prove it?
  • Write about a family road trip that goes hilariously wrong at every turn.
  • Imagine a character who accidentally becomes a social media star for all the wrong reasons—how do they handle it?
  • A person tries to host the perfect dinner party, but everything that can go wrong does—what chaos ensues?
  • Write about a character who’s terrible at lying but keeps trying to tell the perfect lie—how does it backfire?
  • Imagine a character who gets stuck in the most awkward situations—how do they get out of them?
  • A person enters a contest they’re completely unqualified for—what hilarious outcomes follow?
  • Write about a character who has to pretend to be someone else for a day—how do they fumble their way through?
  • Imagine a world where everyone’s thoughts are spoken out loud—what awkward situations arise?
  • A character’s attempts at DIY projects always end in disaster—what’s their latest catastrophe?
  • Write about a person who tries to adopt a pet, but the pet turns out to be nothing like they expected.
  • Imagine a character who takes on a ridiculous dare—what are the unforeseen consequences?
  • A person tries to navigate a fancy event they have no business being at—how do they make a fool of themselves?
  • Write about a character who’s always mistaken for someone famous—how do they use this to their advantage (or not)?
  • Imagine a world where everyone tells the truth, no matter how embarrassing—what situations arise?
  • A character decides to try online dating but ends up on the most bizarre dates—what’s their worst experience?
  • Write about someone who takes their hobby way too seriously—what ridiculous lengths do they go to?
  • Imagine a character who tries to cook a gourmet meal but ends up with a kitchen disaster—what’s the funniest mishap?
  • A person who’s notoriously clumsy has to perform in front of a large audience—what chaos ensues?
  • Write about a character who always says the wrong thing at the wrong time—what’s their most cringe-worthy moment?
  • Imagine a world where animals can talk, and they have a lot to say about humans—what do they complain about most?
  • A character is terrible at keeping secrets but tries to hide something important—how do they accidentally spill the beans?
  • Write about someone who’s obsessed with conspiracy theories—what happens when one of their wild ideas turns out to be true?
  • Imagine a person who tries to throw a surprise party but keeps accidentally revealing the secret—how do they cover it up?
  • A character gets involved in a prank war that spirals out of control—what’s the most absurd prank they pull?
  • Write about a person who tries to follow a complicated set of instructions—how do they hilariously misunderstand them?
  • Imagine a character who has a reputation for being incredibly unlucky—what’s their unluckiest day ever?
  • A person who hates public speaking is forced to give a speech—how do they hilariously stumble through it?
  • Write about a character who’s terrible at giving advice but keeps trying—what’s the worst advice they give?
  • Imagine a world where people switch bodies every week—what happens when someone ends up in a very unexpected body?
  • A character tries to join a group or club they clearly don’t belong in—what are the funny misadventures they experience?
  • Write about a person who’s convinced they have a superpower but it’s actually just a series of coincidences—what’s the funniest “superpower” moment?
  • Imagine a character who’s always eavesdropping and constantly misinterprets conversations—what’s their biggest misunderstanding?
  • A person tries to impress their crush by taking up a new hobby—how do they completely embarrass themselves?
  • Write about a character who’s terrible at giving gifts but insists on trying—what’s the most disastrous gift they give?
  • Imagine a world where people can communicate with objects—what hilarious conversations do they have with their belongings?
  • A character’s attempt to fix something ends up making everything worse—what’s the funniest chain of events that follows?
  • Write about someone who tries to live by a self-help book but ends up taking everything too literally—what’s the most absurd advice they follow?
  • Imagine a character who tries to keep up with the latest trends but always ends up a step behind.
  • Write about a character who takes on a bet they can’t possibly win—what are the funniest consequences?
  • Imagine a person who’s convinced they’re cursed—what absurd “evidence” do they find to support this belief?
  • A character who’s terrified of technology accidentally becomes famous on the internet—how do they cope with their newfound fame?
  • Write about a person who tries to learn a new language but keeps mistranslating everything—what’s their most embarrassing mistake?
  • Imagine a world where everyone has a bizarre superpower—what’s the most ridiculous one, and how does it cause chaos?
  • A character decides to take a spontaneous road trip but ends up getting lost—what hilariously strange places do they visit?
  • Write about someone who’s always trying to outdo their neighbor—what’s the most over-the-top thing they attempt?
  • Imagine a character who’s always misplacing things—what’s the most inconvenient or funny item they lose?
  • A person who’s known for their terrible sense of direction ends up leading a group on an important mission—how do they hilariously mess it up?

Journalistic Writing Prompts

Journalism is all about uncovering the truth and telling stories that matter.

These prompts are designed to help you explore different angles, ask hard questions, and report on the world around you.

  • Write an investigative piece on a local legend—what’s the real story behind it?
  • Imagine you’re covering a protest—how do you capture the voices of the people involved?
  • Report on a mysterious event that no one can explain—what theories do people have?
  • Write a profile on an unsung hero in your community—what makes them special?
  • Imagine you’re sent to cover a breaking news story—what details do you focus on to bring it to life?
  • Write an exposé on a corrupt politician—how do you uncover the truth?
  • Cover a story about a groundbreaking scientific discovery—how do you make the complex information accessible?
  • Imagine you’re reporting on a controversial art exhibit—what perspectives do you include?
  • Write an in-depth feature on a forgotten historical site—what stories does it hold?
  • Report on the rise of a new social trend—what does it say about society?
  • Write a story about a person who’s making a big difference with small acts—how do you highlight their impact?
  • Imagine you’re reporting from a disaster zone—how do you convey the scale of the tragedy?
  • Cover a story about a new technology that’s changing lives—what are the potential benefits and risks?
  • Write a piece on the challenges faced by a particular community—how do you give them a voice?
  • Imagine you’re investigating a company’s unethical practices—how do you gather evidence and tell the story?
  • Report on a cultural festival that’s unknown to the wider world—how do you capture its essence?
  • Write an article about the changing landscape of your city—what’s driving the transformation?
  • Cover a story about an environmental issue—how do you balance the facts with the human element?
  • Imagine you’re writing a piece on the impact of social media on mental health—what angles do you explore?
  • Write a story about a unique tradition that’s at risk of dying out—how do you bring attention to it?
  • Report on a day in the life of someone with an unusual job—how do you make their work relatable?
  • Write an investigative piece on a local conspiracy theory—what’s the truth behind it?
  • Imagine you’re covering a trial—how do you present the facts while maintaining neutrality?
  • Write a profile on a rising star in an unconventional field—what sets them apart?
  • Report on the challenges of a small business in a rapidly changing economy—how do they adapt?
  • Write an article about a medical breakthrough—how do you convey its significance?
  • Imagine you’re reporting on a new cultural movement—how do you capture its energy and purpose?
  • Cover a story about a sports team on an unexpected winning streak—what’s behind their success?
  • Write a piece on the history of a local landmark—what stories does it tell?
  • Report on a community coming together after a tragedy—how do you show their resilience?
  • Write an investigative story on the hidden side of a popular industry—what do people need to know?
  • Imagine you’re writing a feature on an artist who’s challenging norms—how do you showcase their work and message?
  • Report on the impact of a major event on your community—how do you capture the different perspectives?
  • Write an article about the life of a centenarian—what wisdom do they share?
  • Cover a story about a local election—how do you present the candidates and their platforms?
  • Imagine you’re reporting on a groundbreaking legal case—how do you explain its implications?
  • Write a piece on a new educational initiative—how is it changing the way people learn?
  • Report on the rise of a new form of entertainment—what’s driving its popularity?
  • Write an article about a community project that’s bringing people together—how do you highlight its success?
  • Imagine you’re covering an international conflict—how do you provide context and depth?
  • Report on a person who’s challenging the status quo in their field—what motivates them?
  • Write an investigative piece on the dark side of a seemingly perfect community—what secrets lie beneath the surface?
  • Cover a story about a new trend in sustainable living—how are people making a difference?
  • Write a profile on someone who’s overcome significant obstacles—what lessons do they offer?
  • Imagine you’re reporting on a scientific expedition—how do you convey the excitement and importance of the research?
  • Write an article about a cultural tradition that’s making a comeback—why is it resonating with people today?
  • Report on the impact of climate change on a specific area—how are people adapting?
  • Write a piece on a new social movement—how is it changing conversations and policies?
  • Cover a story about the intersection of art and activism—how are artists using their work to create change?
  • Imagine you’re investigating a mysterious disappearance—how do you unravel the mystery and tell the story?

Technology-Themed Writing Prompts

Technology shapes our world in profound ways, influencing how we live, work, and connect.

These prompts are designed to inspire stories that explore the impact of technology on society, relationships, and the human experience.

  • Write about a future where artificial intelligence governs society—how do people live under AI rule?
  • Imagine a world where everyone has a personal robot assistant—what happens when one robot starts acting on its own?
  • A character invents a device that can erase specific memories—what are the unintended consequences?
  • Write about a society where people can upload their consciousness into a digital world—how does it affect their relationships in the physical world?
  • Imagine a future where people can communicate telepathically through implanted chips—how does it change communication?
  • A person discovers a flaw in a popular social media platform that exposes users’ private thoughts—what do they do?
  • Write about a world where virtual reality is indistinguishable from real life—how do people escape their problems?
  • Imagine a character who creates an app that predicts the future—how do they deal with the responsibility?
  • A company releases a new wearable that monitors emotions—what happens when the data is hacked?
  • Write about a society where drones are used for everything—what happens when they start making decisions on their own?
  • Imagine a world where everyone’s dreams are recorded and analyzed—how do people react to having their subconscious exposed?
  • A character stumbles upon a forgotten piece of technology that changes their understanding of the world—what do they do with it?
  • Write about a person who becomes famous on the internet for something they didn’t intend—how do they handle their unwanted fame?
  • Imagine a society where technology can heal any physical injury instantly—how does this change the way people view risk and safety?
  • A character invents a machine that can translate animal languages—what do they learn from the animals?
  • Write about a world where people can live forever by transferring their consciousness to new bodies—how do they deal with immortality?
  • Imagine a future where transportation is entirely automated—what happens when a glitch in the system creates chaos?
  • A person discovers that their every move is being tracked by a mysterious app—how do they uncover who’s behind it?
  • Write about a society where privacy no longer exists due to advanced surveillance technology—how do people adapt?
  • Imagine a world where people can implant memories from other people—what ethical dilemmas arise?
  • A character invents a device that allows people to experience other’s emotions—how does it change their relationships?
  • Write about a future where humans coexist with androids—how do they navigate the complexities of this relationship?
  • Imagine a society where energy is harvested from emotions—how do people deal with the pressure to stay positive?
  • A person hacks into a government system and uncovers a conspiracy—how do they decide what to do with the information?
  • Write about a character who discovers that their entire life has been a simulation—how do they react?
  • Imagine a world where people can edit their genetic code at will—what are the unforeseen consequences?
  • A company creates a device that allows people to relive their favorite memories—what happens when someone becomes addicted?
  • Write about a character who invents a machine that can bring the dead back to life—how does society react?
  • Imagine a future where personal data is the most valuable currency—how do people protect themselves?
  • A person creates a virtual world where they can live out their fantasies—what happens when they prefer it to reality?
  • Write about a world where technology can predict crimes before they happen—how do people feel about living in such a society?
  • Imagine a society where human thoughts can be projected onto screens for everyone to see—how do people handle the loss of privacy?
  • A character builds a robot companion to deal with loneliness—what happens when the robot develops feelings?
  • Write about a world where artificial intelligence decides who people should marry—how do people feel about having no say in their relationships?
  • Imagine a future where medical technology can prevent aging—what societal issues arise from this development?
  • A person discovers that their smart home devices are spying on them—how do they fight back?
  • Write about a world where time travel is possible but only for the wealthy—how does it create a divide in society?
  • Imagine a society where people can upload their dreams to the internet—what are the most popular dreams, and why?
  • A character invents a new form of social media that connects people’s emotions—how does it change the way they interact?
  • Write about a world where climate change has forced humanity to live underground—how do people adapt to life without sunlight?
  • Imagine a society where robots have equal rights as humans—how do they navigate their new status?
  • A person discovers a secret government program that uses technology to control the weather—what do they do with this information?
  • Write about a future where technology can replicate any object instantly—how does it change the economy and human behavior?
  • Imagine a world where people can implant knowledge directly into their brains—how does it affect education and learning?
  • A character creates a machine that allows them to travel to alternate dimensions—what do they find?
  • Write about a society where people are ranked based on their online reputation—how do people navigate this system?
  • Imagine a world where people can live in virtual reality full-time—what are the pros and cons of this lifestyle?
  • A person invents a device that allows them to communicate with their past self—how do they use it to change their life?
  • Write about a future where space exploration is common, but only for the elite—how do ordinary people feel about being left behind?
  • Imagine a society where everyone is connected to a central network that controls all aspects of life—what happens when someone decides to disconnect?

Sensory Detail Writing Prompts

Sensory details bring stories to life by engaging the reader’s senses—sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell.

These prompts are designed to help you focus on rich, vivid descriptions that immerse the reader in your world.

  • Write about the smell of rain on dry earth—how does it affect your character’s mood?
  • Describe the taste of a dish that brings back powerful memories for your character—what emotions do they experience?
  • Write about the feel of an old, well-worn book in your character’s hands—how does it connect them to the past?
  • Describe the sound of footsteps echoing in an empty hallway—what tension does it create?
  • Write about the sight of the first snowfall of the season—how does it change the landscape and your character’s perspective?
  • Describe the taste of a fruit your character is trying for the first time—how do they react to the unfamiliar flavor?
  • Write about the smell of a familiar place from your character’s childhood—what memories does it evoke?
  • Describe the sensation of walking barefoot on warm sand—how does it make your character feel?
  • Write about the sound of laughter in a quiet room—how does it break the silence and affect the mood?
  • Describe the sight of a sunset over the ocean—how does it influence your character’s thoughts?
  • Write about the taste of a favorite comfort food—how does it bring your character a sense of peace?
  • Describe the smell of a freshly baked loaf of bread—how does it fill the space and affect your character?
  • Write about the feel of a cold wind cutting through your character’s clothes—how do they respond to the chill?
  • Describe the sound of a busy city street—how does it create a sense of chaos or excitement?
  • Write about the sight of a field of wildflowers in bloom—how does it impact your character’s mood?
  • Describe the taste of a drink that surprises your character—how do they react to the unexpected flavor?
  • Write about the smell of smoke in the air—what memories or fears does it trigger for your character?
  • Describe the feel of a soft blanket wrapped around your character—how does it provide them comfort?
  • Write about the sound of a distant thunderstorm—how does it affect the atmosphere of your story?
  • Describe the sight of the stars on a clear night—how does it make your character feel small or inspired?
  • Write about the taste of something bitter that your character eats reluctantly—why do they continue to eat it?
  • Describe the smell of fresh-cut grass—how does it signal a change in season or evoke memories for your character?
  • Write about the feel of an icy cold drink on a hot day—how does it refresh your character?
  • Describe the sound of a crackling fire—how does it create a sense of warmth and safety?
  • Write about the sight of a rainbow after a storm—how does it symbolize hope or new beginnings for your character?
  • Describe the taste of a sweet dessert your character indulges in—how does it bring them joy or guilt?
  • Write about the smell of a blooming flower garden—how does it transport your character to a different time or place?
  • Describe the feel of rough, calloused hands—what story do they tell about your character’s life?
  • Write about the sound of silence in a moment of reflection—how does it provide clarity or unease for your character?
  • Describe the sight of a full moon illuminating the night—how does it set the tone for your story?
  • Write about the taste of salt in the air by the sea—how does it connect your character to the ocean?
  • Describe the smell of freshly brewed coffee—how does it signal the start of a new day for your character?
  • Write about the feel of soft, dewy grass underfoot—how does it ground your character in the present moment?
  • Describe the sound of waves crashing against the shore—how does it soothe or unsettle your character?
  • Write about the sight of autumn leaves falling—how does it reflect the changes in your character’s life?
  • Describe the taste of a spicy dish that takes your character by surprise—how do they handle the heat?
  • Write about the smell of an old attic filled with forgotten treasures—what memories does it awaken?
  • Describe the feel of a cool breeze on a warm day—how does it bring relief to your character?
  • Write about the sound of birds chirping at dawn—how does it signal the start of something new?
  • Describe the sight of a candle flickering in the dark—how does it create a sense of mystery or comfort?
  • Write about the taste of a foreign cuisine your character tries for the first time—what cultural connections do they make?
  • Describe the smell of fresh pine in a forest—how does it connect your character to nature?
  • Write about the feel of rain tapping on your character’s skin—how does it cleanse or refresh them?
  • Describe the sound of a train passing in the distance—how does it evoke feelings of longing or adventure?
  • Write about the sight of a bustling marketplace—how does it overwhelm or excite your character?
  • Describe the taste of a bitter drink that your character forces down—why do they continue to drink it?
  • Write about the smell of an open fire in the wilderness—how does it make your character feel safe or vulnerable?
  • Describe the feel of a rough stone wall under your character’s fingertips—how does it tell a story of the past?
  • Write about the sound of leaves crunching underfoot in a quiet forest—how does it amplify your character’s solitude?
  • Describe the sight of a storm approaching on the horizon—how does it foreshadow events in your story?

Writing Prompts Based on Art

Art can spark imagination and lead to countless stories.

These prompts are designed to inspire narratives that emerge from visual works, exploring themes, emotions, and hidden meanings.

  • Imagine a painting of a lone figure standing on a cliff—what are they looking at, and what are they thinking?
  • Write a story inspired by a surrealist painting—how does the strange imagery come to life in your narrative?
  • Describe a day in the life of a character in a famous portrait—what is their world like outside the frame?
  • A sculpture of a warrior comes to life—what mission drives them, and how do they navigate the modern world?
  • Write about a character who steps into a landscape painting and discovers it’s a portal to another world.
  • Imagine a mural that depicts a forgotten piece of history—how does your character uncover the truth?
  • A character finds an old photograph that changes their understanding of their family—what is the story behind the image?
  • Write about a person who becomes obsessed with a painting that seems to change every time they look at it.
  • A character visits an art exhibit where the sculptures seem to move—what secret do they uncover?
  • Imagine a world where famous paintings hold the key to hidden treasures—what clues does your character find?
  • Write a story inspired by a piece of abstract art—how do the shapes and colors influence the narrative?
  • A character finds a sketchbook filled with drawings that predict the future—how do they interpret the images?
  • Imagine a stained-glass window that tells a different story depending on the time of day—what does your character learn?
  • Write about a character who discovers a hidden message in a tapestry—how does it change their life?
  • A painting of a cityscape becomes a real place—how does your character navigate this new world?
  • Imagine a world where every piece of art has a soul—how do people interact with living paintings and sculptures?
  • A character inherits a collection of strange and unsettling art—what dark secrets are hidden within?
  • Write about an artist who can paint scenes from other dimensions—what happens when one of their paintings comes to life?
  • Imagine a character who sees a reflection of their future in a piece of art—how do they react to what they see?
  • A sculpture in a park holds the key to a mystery—how does your character solve it?
  • Write about a character who becomes trapped in a painting—how do they escape, and what do they learn?
  • Imagine a world where people communicate through murals—what stories are told on the walls?
  • A character discovers a lost masterpiece that has been hidden for centuries—what is the significance of the painting?
  • Write about a piece of graffiti that comes to life—what message does it bring to the world?
  • A character finds a painting that shows a scene from their past they don’t remember—what truth do they uncover?
  • Imagine a gallery where the art changes depending on the viewer’s emotions—what does your character see?
  • Write about a character who creates art that predicts disasters—how do they use their talent to help others?
  • A sculpture is rumored to grant wishes—what happens when your character makes a wish?
  • Imagine a painting that shows a different world every time you look at it—how does your character explore these worlds?
  • Write about a character who discovers that the figures in a painting are watching them—what happens when they make contact?
  • A character receives a piece of art that seems to speak directly to them—what message does it convey?
  • Imagine a world where artists have the power to bring their creations to life—how do they use or misuse this power?
  • Write about a painting that changes to reflect the future—how does your character react to the changes?
  • A character finds a piece of street art that leads them on a treasure hunt—what do they find at the end?
  • Imagine a museum where the exhibits tell the stories of their creators—what secrets are revealed?
  • Write about a character who discovers a piece of art that only they can see—what is its purpose?
  • A painting of a ship at sea becomes a portal to another time—what adventure awaits your character?
  • Imagine a character who can communicate with the subjects of a painting—what advice do they receive?
  • Write about a mural that tells the history of a forgotten civilization—how does your character bring that history to light?
  • A character finds a statue that grants them the ability to see the world through the eyes of the artist—how does this change their perspective?
  • Imagine a gallery where each piece of art holds a clue to a larger mystery—how does your character piece it together?
  • Write about a character who sees a reflection of their own life in a famous work of art—how do they respond?
  • A painting of a mythical creature comes to life—how does your character deal with the consequences?
  • Imagine a character who discovers a hidden layer in a painting—what is revealed underneath?
  • Write about an artist whose work comes to life only when the viewer is alone—how does this affect those who see it?
  • A character finds a piece of art that seems to know their deepest secrets—how do they confront this revelation?
  • Imagine a world where art is used as a form of communication—how does your character express themselves?
  • Write about a character who can step into any piece of art—what adventures do they experience?
  • A character discovers a forgotten piece of art that holds the key to a long-lost treasure—how do they decipher the clues?
  • Imagine a painting that changes based on the viewer’s mood—how does it affect your character’s emotions?

Survival Writing Prompts

Survival stories are filled with tension, resilience, and the will to overcome extreme challenges.

These prompts are designed to inspire tales of endurance, resourcefulness, and the struggle to stay alive.

  • Write about a character who is stranded in the wilderness with only a few supplies—how do they survive?
  • Imagine a group of people trapped in a cave after a collapse—how do they work together to find a way out?
  • A character is the sole survivor of a plane crash in a remote area—what steps do they take to stay alive?
  • Write about a person lost at sea—how do they manage to survive against the odds?
  • A character must find their way out of a dense jungle after getting separated from their group—what dangers do they face?
  • Imagine a world where a natural disaster has wiped out most of the population—how does your character survive in the aftermath?
  • Write about a person who is hunted by a dangerous predator—how do they outsmart it?
  • A character is caught in a snowstorm on a mountain—what do they do to avoid freezing to death?
  • Imagine a group of survivors on a deserted island—how do they build a new society?
  • Write about a character who must survive in a post-apocalyptic world—what challenges do they face daily?
  • A person wakes up in an unfamiliar place with no memory of how they got there—how do they navigate this strange environment?
  • Imagine a world where the sun never rises—how does your character survive in eternal darkness?
  • Write about a character who is stranded in a desert—how do they find water and shelter?
  • A character is trapped in a collapsed building after an earthquake—how do they find a way out?
  • Imagine a person who must survive a deadly virus outbreak—how do they protect themselves from infection?
  • Write about a character who is lost in a foreign country with no money and no knowledge of the language—how do they survive?
  • A character is stranded in the Arctic—how do they find food and warmth in the frozen wasteland?
  • Imagine a world where food and water are scarce—how does your character secure the resources they need to live?
  • Write about a person who must survive a plane crash in the ocean—how do they find land and stay afloat?
  • A character is forced to navigate a labyrinth filled with deadly traps—how do they find their way out?
  • Imagine a person who is being chased through a forest by unknown assailants—how do they evade capture?
  • Write about a character who must survive after their spaceship malfunctions and leaves them stranded in space—how do they find a way back to Earth?
  • A person finds themselves in a city under siege—how do they survive the chaos and violence around them?
  • Imagine a character who must survive in a world where technology has failed—how do they adapt to a life without modern conveniences?
  • Write about a person who is trapped underwater after a submarine accident—how do they find air and escape?
  • A character is stranded on a mountaintop after an avalanche—how do they signal for help and stay alive?
  • Imagine a world where the climate has drastically changed—how does your character survive the extreme conditions?
  • Write about a character who must escape from a sinking ship—how do they navigate the dangers of the ocean?
  • A person is lost in a vast, desolate landscape with no signs of life—how do they find their way home?
  • Imagine a character who is being hunted for sport—how do they outwit their pursuers?
  • Write about a person who survives a natural disaster, only to face new dangers in its aftermath—how do they keep going?
  • A character is trapped in a remote location with no means of communication—how do they signal for help?
  • Imagine a person who is forced to survive in a world where society has collapsed—how do they find food, shelter, and safety amidst the chaos?
  • Write about a character who must navigate a flooded city—how do they survive the rising waters and find higher ground?
  • A person is stranded in a remote desert canyon with no clear way out—how do they find water and escape?
  • Imagine a character who must survive a plane crash in a dense rainforest—how do they navigate the unfamiliar terrain?
  • Write about a person who is marooned on an iceberg—how do they deal with the cold and isolation?
  • A character is caught in a forest fire—how do they escape the flames and find safety?
  • Imagine a world where an ice age has returned—how does your character survive in the frozen world?
  • Write about a character who is stranded in a small boat in the middle of the ocean—how do they cope with the isolation and find rescue?
  • A person is lost in an underground cave system—how do they find light and a way out?
  • Imagine a character who is left behind on an alien planet—how do they survive in the hostile environment?
  • Write about a person who is forced to survive in a city overrun by dangerous creatures—how do they avoid becoming prey?
  • A character finds themselves in the middle of a desert with no supplies—how do they find the will to keep moving?
  • Imagine a person who is trapped in a collapsing tunnel—how do they find a way out before it’s too late?
  • Write about a character who must cross a treacherous mountain range to reach safety—what obstacles do they face?
  • A person is stranded in a jungle after a helicopter crash—how do they survive the wildlife and harsh conditions?
  • Imagine a character who is the last survivor of a shipwreck—how do they find land and stay alive?
  • Write about a person who must survive a deadly game set up by a group of hunters—how do they outsmart their pursuers and escape?
  • A character finds themselves stranded in a remote, abandoned city with no signs of life—how do they navigate the eerily quiet streets, and what hidden dangers do they uncover?

Time-Travel Writing Prompts

Time travel offers endless possibilities for storytelling—whether altering history, meeting historical figures, or exploring future worlds. These prompts are designed to inspire tales that bend the fabric of time.

  • Write about a character who accidentally travels back to a pivotal moment in history—how do they navigate the situation without altering the future?
  • Imagine a person who uses time travel to correct past mistakes—what unexpected consequences do they face?
  • A character travels to the future and sees something they don’t like—how do they change it when they return to the present?
  • Write about a person who discovers an old journal that leads them to a time-traveling adventure—what do they learn?
  • A character meets a younger version of themselves—how do they guide or warn their younger self?
  • Imagine a world where time travel is illegal—what happens when your character is caught breaking the law?
  • Write about a character who is stuck in a time loop, reliving the same day—how do they break the cycle?
  • A person travels back in time to prevent a disaster—what challenges do they face in changing the course of events?
  • Imagine a character who can only travel back in time for one hour—how do they use this power?
  • Write about a character who travels to a specific moment in history to meet their hero—how does the encounter go?
  • A person wakes up in a different time period every morning—how do they find a way back to their original time?
  • Imagine a character who uses time travel to steal valuable artifacts—what happens when they get caught?
  • Write about a character who travels to the past and accidentally changes their own family history—how do they fix it?
  • A person discovers that their best friend is actually a time traveler—how does this revelation change their friendship?
  • Imagine a world where people can rent time machines—what happens when your character goes on a time-traveling vacation?
  • Write about a character who travels to the future and discovers that they are famous—how do they react?
  • A person accidentally brings something from the past into the present—how does it disrupt their life?
  • Imagine a character who travels to the past and falls in love—how do they deal with the separation of time?
  • Write about a character who witnesses a historical event firsthand—how do they keep themselves from altering history?
  • A person is given the chance to relive one day of their life—how do they change their choices?
  • Imagine a character who discovers a secret society of time travelers—what is their purpose, and how does your character get involved?
  • Write about a person who travels back in time to save a loved one—what are the consequences of their actions?
  • A character finds themselves in the body of someone from a different time period—how do they adapt?
  • Imagine a world where time travel is used as a form of punishment—how does your character survive their sentence?
  • Write about a character who accidentally switches places with someone from the past—how do they return to their own time?
  • A person travels to the future and sees the end of the world—how do they prevent it from happening?
  • Imagine a character who uses time travel to become a master of every skill—what do they do with their knowledge?
  • Write about a character who is sent back in time to gather information for a secret mission—how do they succeed without being discovered?
  • A person travels to the past and meets their ancestors—how do they interact, and what do they learn?
  • Imagine a character who discovers that their entire life has been influenced by a time traveler—how do they confront this person?
  • Write about a person who time travels to investigate a famous mystery—what do they uncover?
  • A character is tasked with ensuring that a key event in history happens as it should—how do they keep things on track?
  • Imagine a world where time travel is used for tourism—what happens when something goes wrong on a trip?
  • Write about a character who travels back in time and accidentally becomes the subject of a famous painting—how do they escape without altering history?
  • A person travels to the future and meets their descendants—how do they interact with their future family?
  • Imagine a character who uses time travel to escape from danger—how do they ensure they don’t create more problems?
  • Write about a person who tries to use time travel to win the lottery—what unexpected complications arise?
  • A character discovers that they are a time traveler but have had their memories erased—how do they uncover their past?
  • Imagine a world where people can send messages back in time—what happens when your character receives one?
  • Write about a character who travels to the past to prevent a tragedy but discovers that the event is necessary for future good.
  • A person accidentally brings a famous historical figure into the present—how do they manage the situation?
  • Imagine a character who uses time travel to live multiple lives—how do they keep their identities straight?
  • Write about a person who discovers a way to pause time—how do they use this ability, and what consequences do they face?
  • A character travels to a time when their country is at war—how do they survive and find their way back?
  • Imagine a world where time travel is powered by emotions—how does your character harness their feelings to navigate time?
  • Write about a person who discovers that their parents are time travelers—how does this revelation change their view of their upbringing?
  • A character is given a chance to travel to any point in time—where do they go, and what do they do?
  • Imagine a character who uses time travel to solve crimes—how do they gather evidence without being seen?
  • Write about a person who travels back in time to warn themselves about a mistake they made—what happens when they don’t listen?
  • A character discovers that they have been time traveling in their sleep—how do they control it and what do they learn?

Cultural Writing Prompts

Culture shapes who we are, how we live, and how we interact with the world.

These prompts are designed to explore the richness of cultural experiences, traditions, and the impact of globalization.

  • Write about a character who participates in a cultural festival for the first time—how do they experience the traditions?
  • Imagine a person who discovers their cultural heritage through a family heirloom—how does it change their identity?
  • A character travels to a foreign country and experiences culture shock—how do they adapt?
  • Write about a person who is torn between two cultures—how do they reconcile their dual identities?
  • Imagine a character who revives an ancient tradition in their community—what challenges do they face?
  • A person moves to a new country and struggles to learn the language—how do they communicate and connect with others?
  • Write about a character who discovers a lost cultural practice—how do they bring it back to life?
  • Imagine a person who marries into a family with a very different cultural background—how do they navigate the differences?
  • A character attends a traditional ceremony that changes their perspective—what do they learn?
  • Write about a person who teaches others about their culture—what challenges do they face in sharing their traditions?
  • Imagine a character who explores the cuisine of a different culture—how do they react to the new flavors and customs?
  • A person reconnects with their roots after years of living away—how do they reintegrate into their cultural community?
  • Write about a character who creates a fusion of two cultures—how do they blend traditions, and how is it received?
  • Imagine a world where cultures are celebrated through a global festival—how does your character participate?
  • A person tries to preserve their culture in a rapidly changing world—how do they keep their traditions alive?
  • Write about a character who learns about their culture through storytelling—what tales shape their understanding of their heritage?
  • Imagine a person who introduces a forgotten cultural practice to a modern audience—how do they bridge the past and present?
  • A character moves to a new city and discovers a vibrant cultural community—how do they become a part of it?
  • Write about a person who defies cultural norms to follow their dreams—how do they balance tradition and ambition?
  • Imagine a character who experiences a cultural ritual that challenges their beliefs—how do they reconcile the experience?
  • A person documents the traditions of an endangered culture—how do they capture its essence and why is it important?
  • Write about a character who travels the world to learn about different cultures—how do these experiences change them?
  • Imagine a person who brings their cultural music to a new audience—how is it received, and what impact does it have?
  • A character confronts stereotypes about their culture—how do they challenge and change perceptions?
  • Write about a person who discovers a secret about their family’s cultural history—how does it affect their identity?
  • Imagine a world where all cultures are blended into one—how does your character navigate this new global culture?
  • A person learns about their culture through a unique art form—how does it connect them to their heritage?
  • Write about a character who must navigate cultural differences in a relationship—how do they find common ground?
  • Imagine a person who participates in a cultural exchange program—what do they learn, and how do they grow?
  • A character explores the impact of globalization on their culture—how do they preserve what’s important?
  • Write about a person who brings back a cultural practice that was thought to be lost—how does it affect their community?
  • Imagine a character who experiences cultural appropriation—how do they respond, and what do they do to educate others?
  • Write about a person who learns a new language to connect with their cultural roots—how does this journey change them?
  • Imagine a character who is an outsider trying to understand a new culture—how do they earn acceptance?
  • A person tries to modernize a traditional cultural practice—how do they balance respect for tradition with innovation?
  • Write about a character who participates in a cross-cultural marriage—how do they blend and honor both cultures in their life together?
  • Imagine a world where cultural artifacts hold magical powers—how does your character discover and protect them?
  • A person who grew up disconnected from their culture is invited to a traditional ceremony—how do they reconnect with their heritage?
  • Write about a character who challenges a cultural taboo—how does their community react, and what changes follow?
  • Imagine a person who travels back in time to experience their culture’s history firsthand—how do they view their culture differently?
  • A character becomes a cultural ambassador, traveling to promote understanding between different societies—what challenges and successes do they encounter?
  • Write about a person who creates a documentary about their culture—what stories do they choose to tell, and why?
  • Imagine a character who must defend their culture against outside forces—how do they rally their community?
  • A person moves to a new place where their culture is misunderstood—how do they educate others and foster understanding?
  • Write about a character who discovers that their cultural history has been altered or erased—how do they uncover and restore the truth?
  • Imagine a person who uses fashion to express their cultural identity—how do they challenge stereotypes and celebrate diversity?
  • A character who lives in a multicultural city must navigate different cultural expectations—how do they build a life that honors multiple traditions?
  • Write about a person who learns about their culture through food—what dishes connect them to their ancestors?
  • Imagine a world where cultural festivals are the most important events of the year—how does your character participate and celebrate?
  • A person who has assimilated into a new culture rediscovers their original heritage—how do they integrate both aspects of their identity?

Prompt Mashups (Combining Genres or Themes)

Mashups blend different genres or themes to create unique, unexpected stories.

These prompts are designed to encourage creativity by mixing and matching ideas for new and exciting narratives.

  • Write a sci-fi romance set in a dystopian future—how do the characters find love in a broken world?
  • Imagine a mystery where the detective is an artist who solves crimes through their paintings—what clues do they uncover?
  • A historical fiction story with elements of magical realism—how does magic influence real historical events?
  • Write a horror-comedy about a group of friends who accidentally summon a friendly ghost—how do they deal with their new companion?
  • A time-travel adventure that turns into a philosophical exploration—what does the character learn about existence?
  • Imagine a fantasy world where technology is powered by emotions—how do characters navigate this magical yet scientific world?
  • Write a coming-of-age story set in a post-apocalyptic landscape—how does the protagonist grow and adapt?
  • A thriller with elements of fairy tales—how do classic fairy tale characters survive in a dangerous, modern world?
  • Imagine a crime story that doubles as a commentary on modern social issues—how does the crime reflect societal problems?
  • A sci-fi western where cowboys ride robotic horses—how does technology change the Wild West?
  • Write a romance set in a world where dreams can be shared—how do the characters connect through their dreamscapes?
  • A fantasy adventure that explores deep philosophical questions—what does the hero learn about themselves and the universe?
  • Imagine a historical drama with a supernatural twist—how do the characters handle the appearance of ghosts in their lives?
  • Write a survival story combined with a mystery—how does the protagonist solve a puzzle while fighting to stay alive?
  • A dystopian future where animals have taken over—how do humans survive in a world ruled by intelligent beasts?
  • Imagine a comedy set in a haunted house—how do the characters deal with mischievous spirits who just want to have fun?
  • Write a sci-fi story that also serves as a critique of modern technology—what are the unintended consequences of innovation?
  • A thriller set in a fantasy world—how does magic complicate the investigation of a crime?
  • Imagine a romantic comedy where the main characters are from different time periods—how do they navigate their differences?
  • Write a horror story with elements of science fiction—how does the horror emerge from futuristic technology?
  • A historical romance with a mystery subplot—how do the lovers uncover a long-buried secret from the past?
  • Imagine a detective story set in a world where art comes to life—how do the characters solve crimes using living paintings and sculptures?
  • Write a fantasy story that explores real-world social issues—how does the magical setting highlight these problems?
  • A time-traveling adventure that turns into a romance—how do the characters deal with the challenges of loving someone from another era?
  • Imagine a comedy where the characters must survive a series of ridiculous disasters—how do they keep their spirits up?
  • Write a mystery set in a dystopian future—how does the bleak setting influence the investigation?
  • A sci-fi story with elements of fantasy—how do technology and magic coexist in the world you’ve created?
  • Imagine a crime thriller set in a world where everyone has superpowers—how does this complicate the investigation?
  • Write a survival story set on an alien planet—how do the characters adapt to the strange environment?
  • A romantic drama that includes elements of historical fiction—how do the characters’ past lives influence their present?
  • Imagine a horror story set in a seemingly perfect utopia—what dark secrets are hidden beneath the surface?
  • Write a fantasy adventure that also serves as a coming-of-age story—how does the protagonist grow through their quest?
  • A sci-fi mystery where the detective uses futuristic technology to solve crimes—what challenges do they face?
  • Imagine a world where dreams are controlled by a government agency—how do the characters fight for their freedom to dream?
  • Write a comedy set during a zombie apocalypse—how do the characters find humor in their dire situation?
  • A romance that unfolds in a parallel universe—how do the characters navigate the differences between their worlds?
  • Imagine a mystery where the clues are hidden in a series of ancient texts—how do the characters decipher the messages?
  • Write a fantasy story that explores the nature of reality—how do the characters question what is real and what is illusion?
  • A sci-fi adventure that also deals with themes of identity and self-discovery—how do the characters find themselves while exploring new worlds?
  • Imagine a historical drama with elements of time travel—how do the characters’ actions in the past affect the future?
  • Write a survival story that takes place in an alternate reality—how do the characters adapt to a world with different rules?
  • A romantic comedy set in a world where everyone has a unique superpower—how do the characters’ powers influence their love lives?
  • Imagine a crime thriller that doubles as a commentary on the nature of justice—how do the characters grapple with moral dilemmas?
  • Write a horror story set in a world where technology has gone horribly wrong—how do the characters survive?
  • A fantasy adventure with a mystery at its core—how do the characters uncover the truth while on their quest?
  • Imagine a dystopian future where art is banned—how do the characters fight to bring creativity back into the world?
  • Write a romantic drama that explores the concept of reincarnation—how do the characters’ past lives influence their love story?
  • A sci-fi story that questions the nature of humanity—how do the characters define what it means to be human in a technologically advanced world?
  • Imagine a world where everyone’s thoughts are broadcast—how do the characters navigate their relationships in this transparent society?
  • Write a mystery set in a fantasy world where the laws of reality are different—how do the characters solve a crime in a world where anything is possible?

Here are some more prompts if you’re writing fantasy:

Final Thoughts

And there you have it—a collection of prompts to ignite your imagination and kickstart your writing journey.

For even more specific prompts for fantasy, horror, comic books, and superheroes, check out some of my other articles below.

  • 300 Comic Book Ideas [Fuel Your Imagination]
  • 300 Book Ideas to Write (Ideas, Titles, & Story Prompts)
  • 250 Horror Writing Prompts (Scary Good Ideas)
  • 150 Best Fantasy Writing Prompts to Spark Your Creativity
  • 200+ Superhero Ideas for Storytellers (Massive List)

🎉 Our next novel writing master class starts in – ! Claim your spot →

WEEKLY WRITING PROMPTS

Join (probably?) the world's largest writing contest. Flex those creative muscles with weekly writing prompts.

Showing 2214 prompts

Follow a group of strangers touring a city on some kind of vehicle — a bus, a duck tour boat, a party bike… anything that transports passengers.

LIVE – Adventure

Write about someone who’s traveling away from their hometown for the first time.

LIVE – Character

Write about someone’s journey to retrieve an important object that’s been out of their possession for a long time.

Set your story in an airport where all flights have been canceled and all the passengers and crew members are stranded..

LIVE – Dramatic

Write about someone who’s traveling to a place they’ve never been to meet someone they’ve never met.

End your story with someone saying “i do.”, write a story from the pov of a plus-one., start your story with people arriving at a special ceremony., write a story in the form of a speech (or multiple speeches)., center your story around two people who meet at a wedding., write the origin story of a notorious villain., center your story around someone facing their biggest fear or enemy., write about two mortal enemies who must work together., start or end your story with a hero losing their powers., write a story from the antagonist’s point of view., set your story during the hottest day of the year., center your story around an unexpected summer fling., write about a character who is allergic to heat., start or end your story with a heatwave announcement., write about a summer vacation gone wrong., win $250 in our short story competition 🏆.

We'll send you 5 prompts each week. Respond with your short story and you could win $250!

Contest #265 LIVE

Enter our weekly contest.

This week's theme: Bon Voyage

Prize money

Contest entries, closes at 23:59 - aug 30, 2024 est, recent contests ✍️.

#264 – Save the Date

#263 – Heroes and Villains

#262 – Turn Up the Heat

#261 – Gratitude

Recent winners 🏆

Eliza Entwistle – read

Tess Ross-Callahan – read

Sandrine Hu – read

Elizabeth Hoban – read

Leaderboard 🥇

#1 Zilla Babbitt

32404 points

#2 Deidra Whitt Lovegren

28764 points

#3 Abigail Airuedomwinya

22427 points

#4 Graham Kinross

14648 points

#5 Scout Tahoe

13200 points

#6 Chris Campbell

11704 points

#7 Thom With An H

10707 points

#8 Rayhan Hidayat

10219 points

#9 Michał Przywara

9967 points

#10 Deborah Mercer

9615 points

RBE | Illustrated Short Stories | 2024-06

Bring your short stories to life

Fuse character, story, and conflict with tools in Reedsy Studio. 100% free.

NEW VIDEO COURSE 🎉

How to Write a Novel

Join Tom Bromley for a writing master class and finish your first draft in 3 months . Learn more →

Explore more writing prompt ideas:

Adults Writing Prompts ⭢

Adventure Writing Prompts ⭢

Angst Writing Prompts ⭢

Character Writing Prompts ⭢

Christmas Writing Prompts ⭢

Dark Writing Prompts ⭢

Dialogue Writing Prompts ⭢

Dramatic Writing Prompts ⭢

Dystopian Writing Prompts ⭢

Fall Writing Prompts ⭢

Fantasy Writing Prompts ⭢

Fiction Writing Prompts ⭢

Fluff Writing Prompts ⭢

Funny Writing Prompts ⭢

Halloween Writing Prompts ⭢

High School Writing Prompts ⭢

Historical Fiction Writing Prompts ⭢

Holiday Writing Prompts ⭢

Horror Writing Prompts ⭢

Kids Writing Prompts ⭢

Middle School Writing Prompts ⭢

Mystery Writing Prompts ⭢

Narrative Writing Prompts ⭢

Nonfiction Writing Prompts ⭢

Novel Writing Prompts ⭢

Poetry Writing Prompts ⭢

Romance Writing Prompts ⭢

Sad Writing Prompts ⭢

Science Fiction Writing Prompts ⭢

Short Story Writing Prompts ⭢

Spring Writing Prompts ⭢

Summer Writing Prompts ⭢

Teens Writing Prompts ⭢

Thanksgiving Writing Prompts ⭢

Thriller and Suspense Writing Prompts ⭢

Valentine's Day Writing Prompts ⭢

Vampire Writing Prompts ⭢

Winter Writing Prompts ⭢

Oops, you need an account for that!

Log in with your social account:

Or enter your email:

thinkwritten site icon

ThinkWritten

Creative Writing Prompts

Need some inspiration for what to write next? Be inspired with these writing prompts for fiction, poetry, journaling and more!

romance

108 Romance Writing Prompts & Love Story Ideas

Pencils and notebook on a desk.

7 Creative Writing Exercises For Writers

365 creative writing prompts

365 Creative Writing Prompts

Dark haunted lake in forest

42 Fantasy Writing Prompts & Plot Ideas

origami, paper, folding

300 Fun Writing Prompts for Kids: Story Starters, Journal Prompts & Ideas

poetry writing prompts

101 Poetry Prompts & Ideas for Writing Poems

The Write Practice

Top 150 Short Story Ideas

by Joe Bunting | 133 comments

Start Your Story TODAY! We’re teaching a new LIVE workshop this week to help you start your next book. Learn more and sign up here.

Do you want to write but just need a great story idea? Or perhaps you have too many ideas and can’t choose the best one? Well, good news. We’ve got you covered.

Below are 150 short story ideas for all your favorite genres. You can use them as a book idea, as writing prompts for writing contests , for stories to publish in literary magazines , or just for fun!

Top 150 Short Story Ideas

Editor’s note: This is a recurring guide, regularly updated with ideas, new story prompts, and information.

If you're in a hurry, here's my 10 best story ideas in brief, or scroll down for the full version.

Top 10 Story Ideas

  • Tell the story of a scar.
  • A group of children discover a dead body.
  • A young prodigy becomes orphaned.
  • A middle-aged woman discovers a ghost.
  • A woman who is deeply in love is crushed when her fiancé breaks up with her.
  • A talented young man's deepest fear is holding his life back. 
  • A poor person comes into an unexpected fortune.
  • A shy, young woman unexpectedly bumps into her soulmate.
  • A long journey is interrupted by a disaster.
  • A young couple stumble into the path of a psychopath.

The Write Structure

Get The Write Structure here »

Table of Contents

Why Creative Writing Prompts Are Helpful How to Write a Story General Story Ideas Thriller Story Ideas Mystery Story Ideas Romance Story Prompts Sci-fi Story Ideas Fantasy Story Ideas Horror Story Prompts

Why Creative Writing Prompts Are Helpful

Below, you'll find our best creative writing prompts and plot ideas for every genre, but first, why do we use prompts? Is it just a waste of time, or can they actually help you? Here are three reasons we  love writing prompts at The Write Practice:

1. Practice the language!

Even for those of us who are native English speakers, we're all working to improve how we use our language. To make progress, you have to practice, and at The Write Practice, believe it or not, we're really into practice! Creative writing prompts are easy, fun ways to practice.

2. When you have no ideas and are stuck.

Sometimes, you want to write, but you can't think up any ideas. You could either just sit there, staring at a blank page, or you could find a few ideas to help you get started. Even better if the list of ideas is curated from our best plot ideas over the last decade that we've been publishing lessons, writing exercises, and prompts.

Use the story ideas below to get your writing started. Then when your creativity is warmed up, you'll start to come up with your own ideas!

3. To develop your own ideas.

Maybe you do have an idea already, but you're not sure it's good. Or maybe you feel like it's just missing some small piece to make it better. By reading other ideas, and incorporating your favorites into your   story, you can fill your plot holes and generate creative ideas of your own.

Use the story ideas below to develop your own ideas.

4. They're fun!

Thousands of writers use the prompts below every month, some at home, some in classrooms, and even a few pros at their writing “office.” Why? Because writing prompts can be fun. They get your creativity started, help you come up with new ideas of your own, and often take your writing in new, unexpected directions.

Use the plot ideas to have more fun with writing!

How to Write a Story

One last thing before we get to the 100 story ideas, let’s talk about how to write a great short story . (Already know how to write a great story? No problem. Just skip down to the ideas below.)

  • First, read stories. If you’ve never read a story, you’re going to have a hard time writing one. Where do you find great stories? There are a lot of places, but check out our list of  46 Literary Magazines  we’ve curated over here .
  • Write your story in a single sitting. Write the first draft of your story in as short a time as possible, and if you’re writing a short story , try to write it in one sitting. Trust me, this works. Everyone hates being interrupted when they’re telling compelling stories. Use that to your advantage and don’t stop writing until you’ve finished telling yours.
  • Read your draft. Read your story through once, without changing anything. This will give you a sense of what work it needs going forward.
  • Write a premise. After reading your first draft, get your head around the main idea behind your story by summarizing your story in a one sentence premise. Your premise should contain four things: a character, a goal, a situation, and a special sauce. Not sure what that means or how to actually do that? Here’s a full premise writing guide .
  • Write, edit, write, and edit. Good writing is rewriting. Use your second draft to fill in the plot holes and cut out the extraneous scenes and characters you discovered when you read the first draft in step #2. Then, polish up your final draft on the next round of edits.
  • Submit! Real writers don’t keep their writing all to themselves. They share it. Submit your story to a literary magazine , an anthology series , enter it into a writing contest , or even share it with a small group of friends. And if it gets rejected, don’t feel bad. You’ll be in good company.

Want to know more? Learn more about how to write a great short story here .

Our 150 Best Short Story Ideas, Plot Ideas, and Creative Writing Prompts

Ready to get writing? Here are our 100 best short story ideas to kickstart your writing. Enjoy!

10 Best General Short Story Ideas

Our first batch of plot ideas are for any kind of story, whether a spy thriller or a memoir of your personal life story. Here are the best story ideas:

  • Tell the story of a scar, whether a physical scar or emotional one. To be a writer, said Stephen King, “The only requirement is the ability to  remember every scar .”
  • A group of children discover a dead body. Good writers don’t turn away from death, which is, after all, the  universal human experience. Instead, they look it directly into its dark face and describe what they see on the page.
  • A young prodigy becomes orphaned. Orphans are uniquely vulnerable, and as such, they have the most potential for growth.
  • A middle-aged woman discovers a ghost. What do Edgar Allen Poe, Ron Weasley, King Saul from the Bible, Odysseus, and Ebenezer Scrooge have in common? They all encountered ghosts!
  • A woman who is deeply in love is crushed when her fiancé breaks up with her. “In life every ending is just a new beginning,” says Dakota Fanning’s character in Uptown Girls.
  • A talented young man’s deepest fear is holding his life back. Your character’s biggest fear is your story’s secret weapon. Don’t run from it, write about it.
  • A poor young boy or girl comes into an unexpected fortune. Not all fortunes are good. Sometimes discovering a fortune will destroy your life.
  • A shy, young woman unexpectedly bumps into her soulmate (literally bumps into him). In film, this is called the “meet cute,” when the hero bumps into the heroine in the coffee shop or the department store or the hallway, knocking her books to the floor, and forcing them into conversation.
  • A long journey is interrupted by a disaster. Who hasn’t been longing to get to a destination only to be delayed by something unexpected? This is the plot of  Gravity ,  The Odyssey , and even  Lord of the Rings .
  • A young couple run into the path of a psychopath. Monsters, whether people who do monstrous things like serial killers or scaly beasts or a monster of a natural disaster, reveal what’s really inside a person. Let your character fall into the path of a monster and see how they handle themselves.

Now that you have an idea, learn exactly what to do with it.  Check out my new book The Write Structure which helps writers take their ideas and write books readers love. Click to check out  The Write Structure  here.

More Short Story Ideas Based on Genre

Need more ideas? Here are ideas based on whichever literary genre you write. Use them as character inspiration, to start your own story, or borrow pieces to generate your own ideas. The only rule is, have fun writing!

By the way,  for more story writing tips for each these plot types, check out our full guide to the 9 types of stories here .

20 Thriller Story Ideas

Thriller story ideas with picture of hand reaching through mail slot in door

A thriller is any story that “thrills” the reader—i.e., gets adrenaline pumping, the heart racing, and the emotions piqued.

Thrillers come in all shapes and forms, dipping freely into other genres. In other words, expect the unexpected!

Here are ten of my favorite thriller story ideas :

  • She just started a new job when a cryptic message comes across her desk that she can't ignore.
  • An undercover agent is in a race against time to find out who is behind a pate of disappearances.
  • A stuntman realizes the star is a target of a conspiracy theorist on set and their life is in danger.
  • A government agent arrests the wrong man and he begs his wife to find evidence before he becomes the scapegoat for a coverup.
  • Murder victims keep appearing at a popular tourist destination. She must find out who's behind it in this action thriller.
  • A new neighbor seems friendly enough until a series of unsettling events rattles the neighborhood.
  • A thriller writer's compelling characters begin showing up in real life crime scenes, and they become the prime suspect.
  • Mysterious circumstances always surrounded the sudden retirement of a megastar, until a nosy investigative journalist uncovers a clue that would unravel everything.
  • Artificial intelligence took his job after he created the very code that launched the company into eye-popping profitability. And now he's out for revenge.
  • A criminal mastermind has shut down essential services in the city, and only a retired recluse of a hacker can stop him. If they can convince him to take the case.

Click for ten more thriller short story ideas

25 Mystery Story Ideas

creative writing ideas topics

Enjoy a good whodunit? Then you’ll love these mystery story ideas .

Here are a few of my favorites, but find the rest here :

  • A librarian happens across a crime scene when they clean the basement archives.
  • A murder mystery party goes wrong and potential suspects point at each other to avoid arrest. (Especially effective if set in an enclosed location.
  • A secret society of mystery readers realizes that there is a real killer still on the loose and the clues are hidden in a dead author's books.
  • A murder scene on a movie set becomes reality when the star is found dead, and the prime suspect discovered missing.
  • A new restaurant owner in a small town uncovers a long-forgotten mystery from the town's past but the mysterious circumstances unearth a real killer.

Click for the mystery story ideas

30 Romance Story Ideas

30 Romance Story Ideas title against wood grain table with pink flowers

Ready to write a love story? Or perhaps you want to create a subplot with a secondary character? We've got ideas for you!

Hint: When it comes to romance, a sense of humor is always a good idea. Have fun! Here are a few of my favorite, but find twenty more love story ideas here :

  • A character's high school sweetheart shows up and it turns out the school crush feelings haven't gone away.
  • Two characters find an unexpected connection during a key scene that confuses one of them.
  • He gets a letter from a secret admirer and goes on a quest to uncover the identity of the sender.
  • They work together and a secret romance would be a terrible idea, putting both their jobs at risk, but the pull to each other is hard to resist.
  • She returns home when her family's had a tough time after the death of a parent. He's been helping them sort through the mess, and while she disagrees with how he's helping, she can't stop thinking about him.
  • At their large ten year high school reunion, he asks her to dance and she slowly realizes he's the brother of someone she doesn't want to ever see again, but there's an instant connection.
  • A romance writer can't find her own happily ever after until she meets…
  • It's conference season and he has to present all over the country. It's usually a boring string of business trips, but when he's put on a panel with a fiesty and brilliant woman who the night before had kissed him in a bar, he knows this conference season is going to be very different.
  •  It's her first road trip after a bad breakup and she's determined not to depend on anyone else until…
  • A pop star and an astronaut in training meet at a benefit dinner and can't avoid each other's orbits.

Click for romance story ideas

20 Sci-Fi Story Ideas

sci-fi story ideas

From the minimum-wage-earning, ancient-artifact-hunting time traveller to the space-exploring, sentient dinosaurs, these sci-fi writing prompts will get you set loose your inner nerd.

Here are a few of my favorite sci-fi ideas :

  • In a future society, neural implants translate music into physical pleasure, and earphones (“jacking in”) are now the drug of choice. Write either from the perspective of a music addict, OR the Sonforce agent (sonance + enforcer) who has the job of cracking down.
  • It’s the year 5000. Our planet was wrecked in the great Crisis of 3500, and remaining human civilization survives only in a half dozen giant domed cities. There are two unbreakable rules: strict adherence to Life Quality (recycling doesn’t even begin to cover these laws), and a complete ban on reproduction (only the “worthy” are permitted to create new humans). Write from the perspective of a young woman who just discovered she’s been chosen to reproduce—but she has no interest in being a mother.
  • So yeah, ancient Egypt really was “all that” after all, and the pyramids turn out to be fully functional spaceships (the limestone was to preserve the electronics hidden inside). Write from the perspective of the tourist exploring the ancient society who accidentally turns one on.

Click for the other seventeen sci-fi story ideas

20 Fantasy Story Ideas

creative writing ideas topics

Need a dose of sword-in-the-stone, hero and/or heroine packed coming-of-age glory?  We love fantasy stories!

Just try to not have fun writing (or even just reading!) these fantasy writing prompts. Here are a few of my favorite fantasy story ideas:

  • Bored high school wizards decide to throw a party to celebrate tomorrow's graduation. Nothing could possibly go wrong.
  • Weddings are stressful. They're especially tricky when one family is magical and the other hates spells, and both mothers want to control the celebration.
  • A bored housewife wakes one day to find all her dishes are singing Hey, Jude . (Alternatively, if you want to make this a darker story, have them sing  The Sound of Silence. )
  • A witch living secretly in suburbia casts a spell to speed up the laundry, but it backfires—just in time for trick-or-treaters to deal with dancing underwear.
  • Capitol Hill wakes one day to find thousands of fairies protesting for better media representation. Unfortunately, no one can understand what they're saying.
  • A fed-up genie, sick of being over-sexualized and paid in wishes, throws a magical tantrum which turns everyone in the world into the opposite gender.
  • One bright morning in May, all domestic pets start talking.
  • Eating food turns one's skin the same color as one's last ingested item, which makes cheating on diets a challenge of strategy as well as taste.
  • Giants are REALLY into reality TV, and one day stomp down from their hidden mountain homes to convince Hollywood to create a show about them.
  • Mythological creatures, tired of being portrayed as gym rats, confront their creators on a popular combative talk show.

Click for the fantasy story ideas

20 Horror Story Prompts

20 Horror Story Prompts

  • Three college students take a final road trip during spring break of their senior year, not knowing that each of them harbors a dark secret about one of their college professors who was murdered in the fall. As revelations begin to stack up, they each begin to suspect the other.
  • A quiet golf community is upended after a series of grisly murders begin happening on the greens, and a golf pro's seemingly perfect life begins to unravel with each body they find. She isn't the killer, but she has a terrifying idea of who might be.
  • A police officer on terminal leave before retirement finds himself in a bar where he suddenly realizes the art on the walls shifts and reveals pictures of serial killers from the last twenty years. And his best friend and former partner, who is still on active duty, is there on the wall too.
  • A grieving daughter revisits the libraries and locations where her famous horror writer mother penned her most famous works. And finds out her mother's stories weren't quite the fiction everyone believes.
  • A teacher returns to teach at the school where they attended to find that their entire class is made up of the children of every bully and enemy from their life. But no one claims to remember them.
  • A cursed siren hunts a fishing village looking for the boat and man that killed her true love.
  • A hoarder dies and the mother-daughter team hired to clean up the mess discover a dead body and the horror of how it all began might connect to a shape-shifting monster from their own family.
  • A yacht party veers off course during a summer squall and lands on an island. Their relief gives way to terror as they realize they aren’t alone and worse, they’re prey.
  • Radioactive scorpions escape from a lab and begin to attack a small desert town.
  • An experimental romance rehab resort goes into lockdown after a therapist and a participant are found dismembered and clawed to shreds on the beach. But the threat is inside the compound.

Ten more spine-tingling horror story prompts here . 

The Secret to Choosing the Best Story Idea

Stories, more than any other artistic expression, have the power to make people care. Stories have the ability to change people’s lives.

But to write a great story, a life-changing story, don’t just write about what your characters did, said, and saw. Ask yourself, “Where do I fit in to this story? What is my personal connection to this story?”

Robert Frost said this:

If you can connect your personal story to the story you’re writing, you will not only be more motivated to finish your story, you might just be able to change the lives of your readers.

Next Step: Write Your Best Story

No matter how good your idea, writing a story or a book can be a long difficult process. How do you create an outline, come up with a great plot, and then actually  finish  it?

My new book  The Write Structure  will help. You'll learn how to take your idea and structure a strong plot around it. Then you'll be guided through the exact process I've used to write dozens of short stories and over fifteen books.

You can learn more about   The Write Structure  and get your copy here.

Have a great short story idea?  We'd love to hear it. Share it in the comments !

Choose one of these ideas and write a short story in one sitting (aim for 1,000 words or less!). When you're finished, share your story in the Pro Practice Workshop (or our latest writing contest ) for feedback from the community. And if you share, please be sure to comment on a few stories by other writers.

' src=

Joe Bunting

Joe Bunting is an author and the leader of The Write Practice community. He is also the author of the new book Crowdsourcing Paris , a real life adventure story set in France. It was a #1 New Release on Amazon. Follow him on Instagram (@jhbunting).

Want best-seller coaching? Book Joe here.

9 Types of Stories

Work with Joe Bunting?

WSJ Bestselling author, founder of The Write Practice, and book coach with 14+ years experience. Joe Bunting specializes in working with Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Historical Fiction, How To, Literary Fiction, Memoir, Mystery, Nonfiction, Science Fiction, and Self Help books. Sound like a good fit for you?

133 Comments

Bruno Coriolano

“No tears in the writer, no tears in the reader. No surprise for the writer, no surprise for the reader.” —Robert Frost

Joe Bunting

Great quote, right?

Your site is just awesome!

ellery battle

asome i rily like that

Ayesha

I love this Quote!

EndlessExposition

My latest project has been working on a TV-format screenplay. In TV writing, there are B storylines, which are plot lines that span the course of a season (or several seasons). Each episode, however, has an A storyline, which is the plot of the events in that particular episode. Each A storyline is essentially a short story, and churning them out is surprisingly difficult! Lately I’ve been outlining episodes for my own story. I’ve just completed one that I particularly like, and would love to hear what you all think!

The Vampire Cat

The episode opens with Leiko telling the rest of the crew The Dream of Akinosuke. She finishes the story and they all head off to bed. Leiko walks Shannon to her room. On the way, Shannon asks Leiko if the events of the story were the main character’s dreams or if they were real. Leiko replies that for the Japanese the line between dreams and reality is very thin. They say goodnight and part ways.

The next day, the crew touches down on planet Lorraine. Their mission is to rob an auction house of a valuable piece of art if their client is not able to purchase it. They attend the auction. The client is outbid, so that night they return to the auction house to steal the sculpture. While looking for it, Leiko uncovers a dimension hopping machine, which she assumes to be a piece of junk. The crew is surprised by the auction house’s guards. Shannon is shot in the fight. Leiko tries to help her, but is intercepted by a guard. They fight, and Leiko falls inside the dimension hopping machine. She falls against a lever. The doors to the machine close and it begins spinning very fast. Leiko is thrown to the floor and the impact knocks her unconscious.

When she awakes, Leiko is no longer in the machine or the auction house. She is in a 16th century Japanese barracks, surrounded by soldiers. Furthermore, she is dressed like them and they address her as Soda. When she catches a glimpse of her reflection, she realizes to everyone else she looks like a Japanese man. Unsure if she is dreaming or not, Leiko decides to play along. She hears from the other soldiers that the prince of the region is seriously ill, and thinks maybe with her advanced medical knowledge she can help. She sneaks into the castle to see him. On the way, she passes a group of court ladies. The most beautiful of them smiles at Leiko and her eyes flash yellow. Leiko shakes it off, assuming she must be seeing things. She reaches the prince’s room and is shocked to find Shannon lying close to death, surrounded by attendants. She is discovered and thrown out, but she begs to be told what’s happened to the prince, and is informed he has a mystery sickness no doctor can diagnose. It is feared he will die. The prince’s attendants suggest that if she is so worried about her sovereign, she should pray for his health. Before she leaves, she uses to her dagger to look at Shannon’s reflection, and sees that her reflection is in fact that of the prince. Leiko feels the whole situation is somehow strangely familiar, but unable to put her finger on why, she decides there is nothing for it but to follow the attendants’ advice.

That night she goes to the holy quarter and bathes at the well before praying to the statue of Buddha for the prince’s/Shannon’s recovery. A voice calls to her, and she looks up to see a figure in a window above her. The figure asks her to come up. Leiko goes into the building and finds a priest who introduces himself as Ruiten and tells her he has been brought to the castle to find the source of the prince’s illness and asks for her help. Leiko finally realizes why this all seems familiar to her – she is in the story of The Vampire Cat of Nabeshima, playing the part of the young soldier Ito Soda. She makes a conjecture: the dimension hopping machine really worked and has brought her to the spirit world. Shannon, after being shot, is dying, and her spirit has taken the place of the prince in the story. If Leiko saves the prince, she saves Shannon. Ruiten agrees that this may be possible. Leiko agrees to help him. Knowing how the story goes, she now has a hunch as to what is causing the prince’s sickness.

Leiko goes back to the castle, and straight to the house of the court ladies. She digs under the verandah and finds exactly what she thought she would – the body of the beautiful lady, with puncture wounds in her throat.

The next day, Ruiten obtains permission for Leiko to keep watch over the prince with his attendants. That night, all the attendants fall asleep. Leiko keeps herself awake by stabbing herself in the leg. Later in the night, the beautiful lady comes to the room. She says her name is O Toyo, and she is the prince’s favorite companion. Under Leiko’s watchful eye, she cannot harm the prince, so she leaves.

The next morning, Leiko goes to confront the false O Toyo. They fight. Before Leiko can kill her, the false O Toyo shifts to her true form – a demonic black cat – and escapes the castle. Ruiten sends soldiers after her. Just then, there’s a scream from the prince’s room. Leiko and Ruiten rush from to the room and are told the prince is dead. Leiko pushes her way to the bed and, taking Shannon in her arms, pleads with her to wake up. In course of this, Leiko realizes she’s in love with her friend. Suddenly Shannon opens her eyes and says Leiko’s name.

Leiko wakes up in the med bay of the Perseus, surrounded by the crew. Shannon is in the bed next to her, weak but alive. Leiko gets up to tend to her. Shannon asks if one of the crew was holding her, because she could have sworn she felt like she was lying in someone’s arms. Kaya jokes that she must have been having a good dream. Leiko remarks that maybe it was something more.

This is great! Seriously, I really enjoyed it. Now you have to write it! 🙂

Chineomohhamad

Hey Sunny! Loving this website

Abaneish

Opps that was my grandma 🙂 But she right

Evolet Yvaine

Do you know of any Romance magazines that offer short story romances or literary magazines dedicated to just romance? Just curious.

I’m not familiar with any, but try googling “romance literary magazines” or “romance short stories” and I’m sure you’ll find some. Reply back if you find any that are particularly promising.

John Doe

I just want to say, there are so many good stories on this website. This show the amount that you have helped all these people, maybe one day I will add myself to those people, thank you.

Elle

http://www.writersdigest.com/writing-articles/by-writing-genre/romance-by-writing-genre/romance_markets

Nada ahmed

بدأت تمطر ورأيت الناس يسرعون للإختباء من قطراته فابتسمت لذكرى جميلة عبرت خاطرى ..تذكرت امى عندما كانت ترقص تحت المطر بفستانها الوردى..الهى كم كنت أعشق هذا الفستان عليها..كان يناسب بشرتها الفاتحة ونحولة جسدها .جذبتنى من يدى يومها واخذنا ندور فى حلقات لا تبدء ولا تنتهى. شعرت ببرودة يديها تصعق يداى وبرودة المطر تبلل وجهى أحسست وبالسعادة تغمرنى لانك اخيرا بجانبى واخيرا تبتسمين اشتقتك يا اماه ..أشتقت لتفاصيلك وابتسامتك. أشتقت لمعنى وجودك جانبى ..المطر يهطل، أعلم أنك لو كنت الأن معى لجذبتينى ورسمنا بأقدامنا دوائر حتى تبتل عظامنا ..سأرقص لك فقط وسأبتسم لك فقط. بدأت عيون الناس تتجه نحوى ..تستنكر فعلتى ولكنى لا أفعل شئ.انا فقط أخبر أمى إنى بخير وأنى أشتاقها..ولكن للمطر طعم غريب يا أمى. له طعم ألم فراقك ،طعم الحياة بدونك ؛هو المطر وهى الحياة ولكن طعمهما مؤلمين يا أمى

LaCresha Lawson

I’m writing a “Thriller.” I’m very excited. A short story. Thank you. Right on time as usual!

Fun! Good luck LaCresha.

rosie

I’m wondering about “the sagging middle” in story structure right now. I’m happy with my beginning and ending, but the middle isn’t as dynamic as I want it to be. Does anyone have any experiences or advice about this? (It’s a 25 000 word story that’s due for a competition in about four months.)

Hey Rosie. We have a few resources on that. First check out our structure and plot cheatsheet: https://thewritepractice.com/plot-structure . Then, a great guest post on story structure with a hole in it: https://thewritepractice.com/story-hole . And I always recommend Save the Cat, which is a book for screenwriters, but is also very helpful for story structure in general: http://amzn.to/1TNpv2F . Highly recommend it.

Eliese

The story grid is a good site and podcast for story structure. 🙂

Sarah

I would say have an extremely unexpected twist, with a character the audience trusts.

But longer than 15 min but here it is.

I rub my fingers into the soft fuzz on the big brown chair. I can make designs if I move my fingers up or down. A dot makes one eye. Then another. A line for a smile finishes my chair picture. ‘Why would Daddy take money and blow it into the wind?’ I wonder as I draw.

A wet spot lands by the mouth, making the brown turn dark. I try to wipe it away, but the face disappears instead. I lay back in the chair, bumping my twin brother and making the dim room spin. My pink and orange stripe shirt is soft as I wipe my eyes. James’s tears fall to the chair like rain, his mouth open like one of the squishy balls we play with. His cry is loud. I join the noise.

Mommy’s hair, as dark as the wet spot on our chair, poofs around her face. Her green eyes seem small with her eyebrows close together. Teeth and gums show as Mommy screams like a roaring lion. Daddy points a finger at her nose. He looks so big. He yells, trying to be louder than her. James and I try to cry louder than them. Maybe they will hear us. Maybe they will stop.

Mommy lets out one last angry scream and tries to push Daddy away. A long red line comes on his arm. Red water comes out of it. Daddy’s eyes widen. His face turns red. He grabs Mommy by her arms, lifts her, and pushes her to the door like a rhinoceros. The wood breaks as they go through.

The noise has stopped, except for sirens in the distance. I curl into a ball in the chair, James’s knee sticking into my back, and close my eyes.

James and I get to sleep in the same bed tonight. It’s strange having Daddy read and tuck us in by himself, but he tells us Mommy will be home soon. I still don’t understand why she went to jail. I thought jail was for bad guys, but Daddy says everything will be ok.

The lights go out bringing shadow monsters. I hug my brother.

Bit longer than 15 minutes, but here it is

‘Scars’

The noise has stopped, except for sirens in the distance. I curl into a ball in the chair, James’ knee sticking into my back, and close my eyes.

Ghost

This was so good! You have a really good writing style!

Tom

“The wall, he decided, will always be there”

He awoke, or at least it seemed he did, for he could not tell if he had been dreaming or if he were dreaming now. He pushed the woollen, scratchy blanket away from his body. There were no sheets, and his skin stuck to the plastic mattress that smelled of others sweat and urine. After prying his flesh from the tenacious bedding, he managed to sit up. He was more tired than he had remembered. He was still dirty and thirsty and his eyes hurt as they squinted in the dim hazy light. He drew his legs up to his chest and wrapped his arms around them. For long moments, he sat that way fearing punishment for doing anything that might be wrong.

Eventually, however, his eyes grew accustomed to the shadowy light and he began to see things. Across from him he could see a wall. He wondered how long the wall had been there. The question struck him as absurd. The wall he decided would always be there. In this confusion, he meditated on the hardness before him until a thought of beauty entered his mind and the nakedness upset him. “There are no pictures…it has no pictures hanging from it.” Lacking the courage, or cowardice, to look away he continued staring blankly until his sight improved still further and he found something within the wall that excited him. “I forgot…about…colour…I can see the colour now!” He tried to give the colour a name. “Dirty…” he thought. “Filth.” he said out loud. “It is a filthy colour.” he whispered silently to himself.

Quickly, the excitement left him and he began to grow tired of looking at the wall, even the colour began to bore him. The boredom gave him a sense of courage and he became bold. He decided to explore. Cautiously he moved his eyes to the right where he saw…a corner, Then the head began to turn to follow the lead of the eyes. They continued past the corner until they gazed upon something he recognized.

He hated what he saw, the familiar object that hid in the shadows…the thing that kept him here. He glared at it, but the closed and bolted door remained unmoved. It was then that he turned back to the wall he had grown to know and the boredom…he had grown to love.

Justin

incredible first sentence!

Marie Ryan

Incredible first sentence and incredible last sentence. Shivers up my spine. Thank you.

jakey the snakey

3 words…. copy and paste

Camellia G

Omg how why are people so good at writing stuff?!?!?

abigail

idek!?!?!!! i’m a freshman in high school and i can’t even write a simple short story.

TerriblyTerrific

Give it time…

Brianna

This was a wonderful read ^_^ Short and enticingly written. Drew me in right away with that first bit, and especially the way it was all tied together by that first sentence. Lovely!

Mihau

I know it’s been two years but it’s still very good and still deserves praise. I like this trippy atmosphere, you managed to convey it very nicely.

Bridget at Now Novel

Some great story ideas here. You could even combine some of them in interesting, tenuous ways for a multi-location epic.

Thanks Bridget! Absolutely. And there’s nothing I love more than a good epic.

George McNeese

These are great ideas. I like the idea of prompts. Though sometimes, I get stuck when I write from a prompt. And sometimes, I’m not able to write a story in one sitting. I have to think about how I want the story to play out. I might have done it once, and they were pretty short. But most of the time, it takes a couple of sessions. That’s how I’m wired, I suppose.

Trinity

Ten years of therapy, about a million different types of pills and three psychiatrists have helped me enough to write this. I was eleven when it happened, my older sister, Quinn, was almost sixteen, and my best friend was ten. I’ll never forget it… I doubt anyone ever will.

It was a warm summer day, early June, my best friend, Harper was over and we were playing in the backyard. We were laughing and singing along to a song that I couldn’t tell you the name of now. It was the middle of a normal day, but that’s what they always think just before everything goes wrong. Well, anyways,Harper and I amused ourselves doing everything and nothing for a while before we decided that we wanted to go to upstairs and bug Quinn, who we thought was doing her online drivers ed. courses. We raced up to her room, giggling like the little girls we were. When we got to her room, Harper grabbed the doorknob and tried to fling the door open, but it was locked. That should have been my first sign that something was wrong, Quinn never locked her door, we weren’t allowed to. We yelled, laughing, “Let us in! Let us in!” We giggled and knocking on her door again and again. There was no response, so I remember grabbing the key my parents always had, it opened all of the doors to me and my sibling’s bedrooms… I wish I would’ve known what I know now. I wish I wouldn’t have opened that door.

That day was the last happy day for a long time. I remember everything clearly, the breeze ruffling my short hair, the sound of Harper screaming the lyrics to our favorite song at the top of her lungs. I especially remember the thing that has haunted me for the past ten years. I remember my sister’s lifeless body lying in a pool of her own blood on her bed. I remember the look on her face being more peaceful than I’ve ever seen it. I remember screaming as I stared at the image of Quinn, her wrists bleeding and her skin pale. I remember the sound of Harper frantically dialing 911 and I remember the ambulance arriving. I remember the paramedics calling my parents and hearing my mom’s piercing scream from the phone. I remember the paramedics forcing me out of Quinn’s room, while I kicked and screamed at them, begging them to let me stay with my sister. It was the last time I saw her face. I remember collapsing in my dad’s arms. That was the first time I heard him cry, it wouldn’t be the last.

She was already dead when the ambulance got there. Suicide, they said, she killed herself. It took a long time to convince myself that it wasn’t my fault. If I had only went to see her sooner I could’ve saved her. The funeral was closed casket and everyone cried. I didn’t. I couldn’t. I was too numb. I don’t remember much of the funeral, it was just a blur of black and navy blue, with the occasional apology thrown in there. I never got why everyone apologized, it wouldn’t bring her back.

I was just a little girl and there I was with my childhood torn away from me. I was a younger sister and then I was an only child. A piece of me has been missing from me ever since that die and I doubt I’ll ever get it back again.

Caleb Pratt

This was based on the boy or gets an unexpected fortune. I flushed out the typos, but its okay. Check it out! 😀 Caleb Pratt

Mistaken Divinity

My bar drinks of the wooded timberland were one of the most profound expeditions in my walk into becoming a god. I cupped the glass of cool bud light, and sipped it up at the mini bar table. I rested my hand on the wooden counter top, my fans and companions gambling each other on some high level daredevil match.

“Hey, Lexan, where you at,” I turned to see my friend Rodriguez. Fun man to have around with. He was had long grey hair, even for a guy. I pushed off the table and stood straight. I kept my hand in my pocket.

“You have a lot of realty in the new diversion your causing. Sherman hasn’t even sighted any more Divine Partakers, let alone, any Christian circumspect.”

“I know I know, but… we are, what they are… except the for the grace,” Rodriguez said.

“Right,” I narrow my eyes down towards the ground. I didn’t want to hear what he had to say about us Mormons being what the Christian Community isn’t. I mean, there almost all extinct, if not a hundred percent. We are the erected believers… who are in sure denial of the forthcoming of any later day saints.

“So where is your ceremonial magic been taking you,” Rodriguez said. “Anyhow I could help in the cemetery on Route 430?”

“Uhh… I mean… yeah unless you have a cloak and a specialized dagger. I’d have to get you one of those. You’ll be all dressed like a Celtic.”

We laughed.

Rodriguez was a good friend of mine. Much older though. I was in my teen years and he was in his fifties.

“Man, Lexan, you need to grow a beard. Your seventeen years old… yet you look like you’ve graduated college. What happened to your power to manipulate appearance? Funny… its a shame Christians don’t have this kind of power… even heathens can’t do anything we can.”

“Yeah I can tell Rodge. Tell me, why haven’t you been practicing your divinity? You seem a little out of shape to be wrestling with angles and demons….”

“Well I… yeah I mean, sure. Lets say I’m kind of in a predicament.”

“What…?”

I lay my back against the counter.

“Well, down on Armenia Rd. there was a cross fight between me and some other foe. Not sure what to suspect of him, but the “man-woman” was between two others working for her, or he… I don’t know.”

I rest my chin on my thumb and index finger. I realize and hear there are other phenomena of some other cultist group here in Sherman. Our cult is wacky on its own. Though I don’t know what to think of this “he-she man” thing….”

Escee Noah

BZZZZZ! BZZZZZ!

‘I heard you! Shut up!’

‘Enough, you asshole!’

WHACK! Pieces of metal and plastic shattered on the wall.

“I can’t do this anymore,” she muttered softly as she fights her every being not to shed a tear. Alas, she lost once again.

It’s been days since she last saw light. The shadows on the walls seemed permanently etched. Her sanctuary once filled with love, lust, and happiness, now wreaks with despair, anguish, and palpable desperation.

‘How did I get here?’ she thought. The same desperate thought she’s been clutching onto for days. Or maybe weeks? Months? Years?

It doesn’t matter. To Emma, time no longer exists with this unrelenting pain.

Once in a while, the light would sneak through the thick, heavy curtains. And Emma would almost succumb to a hint of a smile until it haunts her again.

His resilient hands on her supple breasts. His soft lips caressing her neck and slender sternum. His sturdy chest against her trembling body. His whole palpitating manhood devouring her salacious being. Every ridges of Paul haunt her. Now, it all has to be distant memories. Unshakeable, soul crushing memories.

After what seemed like a lifetime of horizontal desolation, she finally mustered some strength to sit at the edge of her bed. She slowly opened her bulging eyes, and finally saw the mess she was in. Rotting pieces of food in cardboard boxes, sea of crumpled tissue strewn with nauseating piles of laundry, and dismantled pieces of her once chirpy alarm clock scattered all over her dingy floor.

As she moved her gazed from the floor, she noticed the dent on her pristine white wall. She couldn’t help but stare. ‘That dent will be there for a long time,’ she thought.

With a throbbing grunt, Emma slowly stood up and shuffled towards her once chirpy alarm clock. She picked up the pieces and followed the faint light peeking through her bathroom door. As she turned the door knob, more tears rolled down her cheeks. It was excruciating, but this time it was different. The door closed and the room was dark once again.

Miss.Bridget

“His resilient hands on her supple breasts. His soft lips caressing her neck and slender sternum. His sturdy chest against her trembling body. His whole palpitating manhood devouring her salacious being. Every ridges of Paul haunt her. Now, it all has to be distant memories. Unshakeable, soul crushing memories.”

Stella

He had left his Gameboy behind. There was nothing to do without it, nothing to do but kick his feet and stare at the dull blank walls. Even annoying Di-Di had lost its colour. He didn’t care what Ma or Papa said. He had to get his Gameboy back.

He pushed into the room. Ah Boy, wait outside ah. Don’t come in! Papa had seemed firm, but he was old enough now to know how to get out of trouble. He would run to Ma, hide behind her legs, maybe tearfully declare that he would run away from home because Papa was so mean. Anyway, Papa seemed so busy with Ah Gong nowadays. He wouldn’t bother to cane a little boy like him.

Where had everyone gone? He couldn’t have been in the corridor for so long. The room that was once packed full of relatives was empty. It was only Ah Gong left in the hospital bed.

Immediately he noticed that the mask over Ah Gong’s nose and mouth was gone. Who had removed it? Without the strange alien-octopus-thing perched on his face, Ah Gong looked like the grandfather he remembered. He moved closer to get a better look.

As he approached the bed he realized the mask was lying on the chair. The inside was stained with a rustlike substance he did not recognize. He held up the mask to the light, and rubbed the stain with a cautious index finger. A powder came off in his hand. With a shiver of disgust he realized it was dried blood.

“Di-Di!” He didn’t know if he was terrified or excited. Where was his brother? Ma had always rushed to daub up any blood in their house – whether from Di-Di falling when learning to ride his bicycle, Di-Di scratching him during one of their many fights, Papa tripping over a wire and later needing stitches in his forehead. He couldn’t pass up this golden opportunity to share with his brother: the chance to investigate blood without an adult present.

The Gameboy lay in the room, forgotten.

Wrote on ‘a group of children discover a dead body’. In case it wasn’t obvious.

Dejon Dequonihjuan

“I do like llamas very much,” said Charleston, “In fact, they even have names.” “You are one freaky man, Charleston.” stated Larry

Aaroc

Very well said!!

Iflis Richenstar

Jeremy Reynolds had a party one day. He decided it would be a special theme. Deez Nutz, he decided would be a fitting title for a beach party.

rainbowcliffords

*I am only 14 so please, don’t mind me if there are any mistakes. I am still in the process of learning, but I tried really hard*

He could write. He could write and he knew it. No one else knew. He’d never show them his pieces; his collection of fantasies and mysteries. He wanted his friends to know. No, he wanted the world to know. But he was fearful. He was fearful of his stories failing, of him failing.

Abram had written many short stories and novels, all of them printed in manuscript and hidden in a black lock-box under his bed. He was unmarried, for he didn’t need any other love than that of his trusty typewriter and parchment. Writing was frowned upon, in his country. Books were burned. Even the classics. They were all burned in a pile on the streets.

He wouldn’t risk it. He didn’t want that fate for his books. He worked to hard. He spent too much time revising and perfecting the novel; there was no way he would let them die.

Sighing, Abram cracked his knuckles and stood. He yawned and walked over to his bed, where he bent down and grabbed the lock-box from beneath the bed. Abram had kept the key underneath the mattress, in case anyone were to find this box that contained all of his treasured secrets.

He opened the box he hadn’t opened in many years. Removing the pieces of parchment, he sat on floor, listening for the sounds of Nazi vehicles who somehow sensed the unpublished books. But none came. There was only silence, which, to Abram’s surprise, seemed to grow stronger as each second passed.

Before he knew it, Abram had been sitting on his hard floor for hours, thinking. Thinking about what he knew not. He just knew he was thinking.

Abram stood slowly; carefully as if he was trying not to disrupt the dust that covered the dark floor. Walking over to his desk, he left his lock-box open; something he’d never done in the years past. He sat and placed some more parchment into the typewriter and began writing, or typing, you could say. But this time, something was different. Abram wasn’t writing just for fun, he was writing for purpose. This time, he thought, this time, I will be published and my work may fuel the world. And with that, he revealed his talent to the world.

malberga

Thank you so much!!

Samurai

much thanks <3

LAIE AKANA

I’m sorry I’m late but I just wanted to say this story is fantastic! Soon enough this will become a book! I’m from Hawaii and all I do is write and draw all day… Keep up the work and never give up! God bless and aloha!

Pranaydiya Verma

Yours was the best story that I read on this page…

thank you!!!

Very empowering!!! I was also around your age when I started writing on this site.

Anyways, that short story was so full of meaning. We just happened to be doing an essay on the value of literature in English class so this really fit in nicely for me with that. Lovely! 🙂

oh thank you sooo much!! I greatly appreciate it!!

LilianGardner

I enjoyed your story. Thank you for sharing. I especially liked how Abram developed his talent, and despite the fear of having his manuscripts destroyed, he decided to publish his work. Well done and well told.

Jonathan

I have noticed some tiny grammatical mistakes in your Story and correct it for you as I know that this short Story has potential to go very far. Here is the corrected version: He could write. He could write, and he knew it. No one else knew. He’d never show them his pieces; his collection of fantasies and mysteries. He wanted his friends to know. No, he wanted the world to know. But he was fearful. He was fearful of his stories failing, of him failing.

Abram had written many short stories and novels, all of them printed in manuscript and hidden in a black lock-box under his bed. He was unmarried, for he didn’t need any other love than that of his trusty typewriter and parchment. Writing was frowned upon, in his country. Books were burnt. Even the classics. They were all burned in a pile on the streets.

He wouldn’t risk it. He didn’t want that fate for his books. He worked too hard. He spent too much time revising and perfecting the novel; there was no way he would let them die.

He opened the box he hadn’t opened in many years. Removing the pieces of parchment, he sat on the floor, listening for the sounds of Nazi vehicles who somehow sensed the unpublished books. But none came. There was only silence, which, to Abram’s surprise, seemed to grow stronger as each second passed.

Abram stood slowly; carefully as if he was trying not to disrupt the dust that covered the dark floor. Walking over to his desk, he left his lock-box open; something he’d never done in the years past. He sat and placed some more parchment into the typewriter and began writing, or typing, you could say. But this time, something was different. Abram wasn’t writing just for fun, he was writing for a purpose. This time, he thought, this time, I will be published, and my work may fuel the world. And with that, he revealed his talent to the world.

I hope my effort has helped!

Is it OK if I put this on a website I’m making. It will get me money I need to have. You said your only 14, 9 months ago, so you could be 15, well I’m only 12. I need to learn to save up and this will help me. Everything I said here is true, please help me. Also, this is a great story and that is why I chose your to be on my website.

3am_moon_and_stars

dude thats like literally directly stealing someone’s work for money that only goes to you. Just write your own story instead of stealing someone else’s.

Admit it. I am probably some dude who can’t even make a website, well I am, so don’t worry.

This is the story I am working on now. I wrote it a long time ago, but I am upgrading it now. Changing all the errors, making the vocabulary more sophisticated:

In a valley close to a river where melt-water splashed and where rhododendrons and roses bloomed, where linnets flew with doves above the clustered trees, lay a cave, mostly hidden by the immense pines and the crag. In the cave, out of reach from the sunlight, was a portal. The portal’s frame was the darkest shade of gold, with glowing orange lines carved into it. Glowing flecks of bright blue glow in the darkness of the cave. The portal lay un opened, but the frame still glowed in the shadows of the sombre cave.

In a desert of torturing, immense heat, where scorching light, too blistering to be called sunlight, burns the dehydrated ground, was a tunnel, buried under the sand. In the tunnel there was an ever-growing fortress of burnt leaves and sand with over-boiled water dripping the top. This is all that remained of the desert, nothing could survive in the world above, nothing except from the portal. The fortress was built around the portal; the portal was the darkest shade of black, with red around the rims of the frame.

The sound of water hitting the cold tiles that topped the floor brought a sense of entertainment to the girl sat in the small room covered in a mixture of scars and bruises, awaiting the next blow of the hammer upon her fragile body which shivered in the night air and soft breeze which entered via the half barricaded window. Again and again, almost as if it was a cruel rhythm the metal tool came down, never missing a hit, always landing upon her chest. The storm brewing outside was bad enough without the maniac and his hammer. These are soft blows for a man of his build, she thought, she was certain he intended to make this last all night long. She wanted to struggle, to scream! But the leather bindings made it impossible, who cares anyway, she thought, no one near this basement would care.

The sticky taste of iron filled her mouth, blood. Her body started to shudder, shock. By this point the inmate hitting had dropped the hammer and injected another load of hydrocodone, such a waste of such an effective pain killer. At last she tried to struggle, but even with the drugs numbing the sharp pain shooting trough her body she still couldn’t gain the strength to fuel her ineffective hope of escaping the inmate, after all, even if she did escape, in a mass breakout like this? She could die in a more demanding way.

With my free hand I felt the imperfections, holes, scratches, patches of long since dry blood that covered thee wooden operation table I lay on. How old was it? Thirty years? Forty? Who cares, it had to be old to be in the basement of Twin Rivers Asylum. This psychiatric institution had housed many atrocities, after all, Nazis built this asylum, catered the inmates…put them to work. We are only barely off the English channel; here in Channel Island’s Twin rivers asylum we have many an inmates. Young and old, French and British, they are all welcome here, hell, we have a Swedish inmate, talks to himself all day and night, his names Toby Buchman, we call him Toby-Talkative, how very fitting being his nurse I should die by his hand…

Ouch, be gentler Toby. Even through my drugged up husk of a body I felt that one. I and the staff thought you were joking when you said you were very strong, looks like you weren’t joking…

For such a shrivelled blotch of bones you have surprisingly good and when it comes to instrument of torture, your quite strong, why wouldn’t you be? Killing young women is why your here, Toby, you are one hell of a sociopath, brilliant mind, you’re like a more sadistic Hannibal Lecter minus eating his victims after all, I’m so helpless you could take a couple of bites out of me as I lie here, in the dark basement…

Fun fact, a goldfish’s attention span is three seconds, the average lunar eclipse takes 11 minutes to pass, and a wooden hospital bed from 19th century takes an average of 63 hits to break trough, 54 if you incorporate a body which weighs approximately 130lbs, and guess how much I weigh.

Suddenly I heard the wood buckle under the next hit a glorious hit as well as my straps loosening. Come on Toby, you brilliant old sociopath, you can do it, one more well made hit could send me free. What could go wrong? Toby stood motionless on the spot for a moment later Toby took another blow. I couldn’t breathe. The pain was so intense I felt every cell in my body explode in a chain reaction. The pain was so intense that it felt like a piece of heated iron had been pressed onto my skin. Despite that, a strange sort of calm fell over me: I was dying. I wasn’t coming back from this. Part of me thought, All right. Make it count. I wobbled on one foot about to run to the door, but unfortunately Toby kicked me at the wall. He was so strong, I thought All froze the leaves on the trees didn’t clatter, Toby didn’t stink anymore, Then it was gone all the memories of life returning to me. Then it all went away, my life was It was the end, nothing could stop that now…

I awoke in a bed, in a white room with a marble floor and a silver carpet at the foot of the bed; the wall behind her was a fancy, white wallpaper, decorated to look like a real wall. The wall on the left of the bed and in front of the bed were normal and white, on the right of the bed was a window, now covered, with a beige curtain. In the bed- where the girl lay were multiple cushions, all lay side by side at the top of the bed; the blanket covering her was soft and light. On the sides of the bed were two bed-side cabinets, one with a lamp and the other one with a vase, holding tulips and rhododendrons, on books by her favourite author, many she didn’t recognise. Promptly, she got up noticing there was a small, white table- shaped as a cylinder, with a transparent glass top; also noticing the chair behind it too. The chair was a traditional, leather armchair with four small metal legs holding it up. Then she turned to the door. It was white made, smooth and made out of oak, with a metal handle, a small, square keyhole under it.

As soon as I placed my hand on the door handle, it flew open with a tall, handsome man in the way with bright blue hair shaped as a fire and red eyes. “Welcome, Kayla to Valhalla. Where are you off so fast” he shouted with glee. “I was going out,” Kyla said trembling on the spot. “I didn’t think this is where I should be.” “In this hotel we are all dedicated to make you feel like home, for you will be staying here for the rest of your life. Sorry for my wrong vocabulary, you are already dead. For the rest of the time you need to practice.” “What !?” she yelled. “Are you saying I’m dead” “Yes I am,” the man asked confused.”May I introduce you to your new home”

So the two walked through what seemed to be a endless tour, but eventually came to an end. “And this is the dining room where you have dinner… Here is your breakfast room you can freely come here and invite friends if you are feeling lonely…” “So you are saying this is the place where all people go if they are an extremex and if they died they come here and become an extraextremex” “Yes,” said he.”And also that you are our leader because you can see what specie people are also take away their powers if needed.” “Can I take away the powers of sociopaths or weaken them with my mind beams whatever things.”

“Yes, you can but if you do that you will be weakened too. Also that is a high level trick, you are not high level- no offense” “Offense taken,” said Kayla, with her head down. So they continued on their tour and went walking through all the different floors and introducing Kyla to all the different people and members of staff. On they went about the limits of people and a lot of different stuff. After time, they started her training.

“Focus on me, ” Blaze was explaining to her how to see what specie he was.”Do not think of anything else. Not the colour of my nose, not what room we are in just on me the thoughts and memories of me. Now listen to the sound of my voice. You should be in a universe of darkness; are you?” “Yes I see black in the background and there are flying things in it.” “Yes those are my thoughts.” “I can also see images swirling around” “Those are memories” “I can also feel heat and cold environment when I move around. Are those your emotions” “Yes, the heat is happiness and the cold is anxiety or sadness. Now let’s focus on the specie part. To determine if I’m an Extraextremex, a normal Extremex or even an Oigreog. If I am an Extraextremex then you will not feel motion. If I was an Extremex then you would sense tingling and if I am an Oigreog then you’ll sense shaking. Which one do you sense?” “I sense tingling and shaking so you are one of the Oigreog in the times when Extremex where starting to populate the world. This that means you are an Exremog or an Exoiig” “I am an Exoiig. I have not died yet.” “But how are you here?” “Because I was the first Exoiig alive. I made this place” “But how?” “I used my powers to do it. That is why all the walls are shades of red, orange and yellow.” “Why didn’t you make mine a different colour.” “Because I need to keep track of what specie everyone is. I used Conjuration and Mysticism to make sure that every specie got the same shade of red or whatever.” They blabbered on about what it was like when Oigreog ruled the world, what Black Magic could do and how to control Extraextremex powers…

Kayla went to bed with the thoughts of how the world was made and how it transformed into this planet, when at the start it was billions of monsters – the Oigreog – fought and then somehow transformed into normal people who never fought in their lives. She also didn’t understand how there was only one person who had the power to see what specie one was… She woke with her hair curled up covering her face.

Once she tossed the hair off her face she noticed there was a book on her bed-side cabinet beside the lamp. When she picked it up, she noticed it was a book called “The Arts of Necromancy and Enchantments”. She soon noticed it was the book Blaze used to learn Black Magic. She was filled with a mixture of joy and shock. Then the door flew open. A small brown-haired boy was standing in the way. “Hi,” he said, holding a hand out to shake, “I am Logan, someone from you floor” “Hi,” Kayla said, shaking his hand, “I’m Kayla, an Extraextremex” “Do you want to go and have breakfast” “I guess so” said Kayla.

In the hallway, my neighbours were starting to emerge. Thomas Jefferson Jr looked about my age. He had short curly hair, a lanky frame and a rifle slung over one shoulder. His blue wool coat had brass buttons and chevrons on the sleeve – a U.S. Army Civil War uniform, I guessed. He nodded and smiled. ‘How you doing?’

‘Um, dead, apparently,’ I said. He laughed. ‘Yeah. You’ll get used to it. Call me T.J.’ ‘Kayla,’ I said. ‘Come on.’ Logan pulled me along.

We passed a girl who must’ve been Mallory Keen. She had frizzy red hair, green eyes and a serrated knife, which she was shaking in the face of a six-foot-seven guy outside the door marked X.

‘Again with the pig’s head?’ Mallory Keen spoke in a faint Irish brogue. ‘X, do you think I want to see a severed pig’s head every time I step out of my front door?’

‘I could not eat any more,’ X rumbled. ‘The pig head does not fit in my refrigerator.’ Personally, I would not have antagonized the guy. He was built like a bomb-containment chamber. If you happened to have a live grenade, I was pretty sure you could safely dispose of it simply by asking X to swallow it. His skin was the colour of a shark’s belly, rippling with muscles and stippled with warts. There were so many welts on his face it was hard to tell which one was his nose. We walked past, X and Mallory too busy arguing to pay us any attention.

We entered a small elevator and the doors closed, making the elevator sound. “One question: How does everyone get here.” “People called Collectors fly around the world collecting souls of dead Extremex. I am a Collectors.”

‘And you?’ I asked. ‘How did you become a Collector? Did you die a noble death?’ She laughed. ‘Not yet. I’m still among the living.’ ‘How does that work exactly?’ ‘Well, I live a double life. Tonight, I’ll escort you to dinner. Then I have to rush home and finish my calculus homework.’ ‘You’re not joking, are you?’ ‘I never joke about calculus homework.’ The elevator doors opened. We stepped into a room the size of a concert arena. My mouth dropped. ‘Holy –’ ‘Welcome,’ Logan said, ‘to the Feast Hall of the Slain.’

Rows of long tables, like a stadium, curved downward from the nosebleed section. In the center of the room, instead of a basketball court, a tree rose taller than the Statue of Liberty. Its lowest branches were maybe a hundred feet up. Its canopy spread over the entire hall, scraping against the domed ceiling and sprouting through a massive opening at the top. Above, stars glittered in the night sky.

Eh

What’s supposed to be your point? If you are receiving money from something YOU DO NOT OWN then it is obviously theft. YOU DO NOT PUT SOMEONE ELSES WORK ON YOUR OWN WEBSITE AND USE THAT MONEY FOR YOURSELF. That is just pathetic, really. I hope you honestly realise what your doing here, because its seriously stupid.

niggy

kys nigga my bitch loves the cocaine nigga gucci gang nigga iwill fuck your bith tongiht nigga, drose out nigga fag nigga

stupid

I am very disappointed that there is not 100 of the story idea selection

Marlene Samuels

I’m glad to see Joe’s book, Let’s Write a Short Story! is still availalbe and going strong! I purchased it as soon as it was published, still refer to it quite regularly to remind myself of some important but often over-looked elements of short story. Although my work has been published a number of times, we’re never too experienced to learn and to be reminded of what makes for a great story.

A short story idea: When I was very young, one of my best friends learned she had been adopted. We all know that people really can and do say some incredibly stupid things to children. Because my mother had very blond hair and blue eyes and both my hair and eyes are dark brown, strangers often said to me,”And just whose little girl are you?” I began to wonder whether I, too, was adopted and my parents simply weren’t telling me. What if, as an adult who never questioned your origins, you learned you had been adopted. Conversely, because I myself DO have an adopted child, what if you were told you were adopted but in fact, learned you were not. Write a short story!

Jayden

here’s my story

Uncle joe was talking to his 5 year old nephew jane about how he’s getting old and how she’s going to have to start doing all the chores in the house joe is a little challenged in his life because he was bullied and doesn’t know how to control his anger. he gets in an argument with jane and Joe felt anger go through his mind his temper over flows and he got so mad he started hitting her. 2 years later she was still helping around as Jane’s face would turn red and she would start throwing tempers and joe would hit her. Over the years her fachel expiration started to change form because of all the hitting. Joe heard a scream of dying devastating noise outside and went to go see what it was he lifted up a bucket and under it was the phone book. Since he had anger issues he decided to call the evil scientist and ask him to fix bullying once and for all after he went to the evil scientist house something went wrong he came back as the demon he unlocked his nephew’s room there she was. she was crying.Jane slowly turned around she was mad crazy. He ordered her to clean the dishes. Since she was so mad crazy she didn’t listen to him and she smacked him across the face the Demons face turned red he felt like someone pierced him with a needle he got so mad that he trapped her in the mirror. She was screaming for help but it just circulated around in the mirror as she was she was trapped there another duplicate appeared it was a boy. He said his name was michael. He was 7 years old the evil demon erased the kids memories and put them in a microchip. Then he put him on the streets. Someone had found him and brought him home and He had been with his new parents for years.He was great at figuring anything out a after a while he found out about his uncle Joe. Since he was so good at researching things he even found directions to his uncle’s house so he decided to go on an adventure to find his uncle joe/the Demon once he found uncle Joe he wasn’t at all happy.

Joe hit Michael and he fell to the ground and fainted .when he was just slightly awake he found a microchip it said Michael’s memories michael picked it up Joe was coming towards him with a knife

Michael woke up right away and put the microchip to his chest if he dies Jane will vanish for ever Joe stabbed Michael in the chest.luckily the microchip blocked the knife from stabbing him and the microchip went into his chest it felt like a rainbow bursting through his skin the light went into his eyes and he got his memories back. He knew everything he knew that his clone was abused and everything he was ready to sacrifice himself for his clone so he ran inside the house and did bloody jane spinning around in circles and said bloody jane bloody jane bloody jane.

He trapped himself in the mirror and Bloody Jane was back Jane through her self out of the house and went to Joe in and punched him on the floor and they had a sword fight and Joe died and bloody Jane turned into the evil bloody demon.

(I like to write with comic characters (Peter Parker, ect.) so here we go… Based on the scars short story idea)

“Where did these come from?” I flinched and hurried to cover my back and arms up. “They’re old… They don’t hurt anymore…” I frowned, remembering the pain from each one of the marks that stained my skin forever. “That’s not what I asked…” I flinched as he slid the thin jacket off my shoulders to get a better look at them. I didn’t meet his eyes as he traced over them. Long and thin lines from knives. Round ones from cigars or cigarettes. Jagged ones from glass. The giant one that curled from just below my neck, all the way around my body before stopping at my right hip. I remembered the pain from each one, the cause of each one, the people who caused each and every one of them… “Pete, It’s a really long story…” We had been dating for about a month and I didn’t want to scare him away with my sob story. “I want to know.” His voice was soft as he had me sit on the bed facing him. I looked at him for a while, trying to sort my thoughts out. We had been friends since we were six, but I had hidden everything from him. He had no clue, and I wish he still wouldn’t… I took a deep breath and began to tell the story. “I’ve kept this from everyone… Please let me tell the whole story before you ask questions or leave me. I wouldn’t blame you if you did…” “Go ahead, I’ll let you finish. But I promise, I won’t leave you.” He grabbed my hand and gave it a reassuring squeeze. “We’ll see… It began when I was six. My parents weren’t the best as you know… They weren’t home much. Mom went out drinking until she was hammered, Dad went out on “business” calls. He would leave almost every night, coming home with perfume on him. Mom didn’t want to believe it. She was in denial, believed that he still loved her as he did in the past… She would come home smashed and would start sobbing. I tried to help as much as I could, but I didn’t know much. I would let her hug me, and would do my best to comfort her. I learned fast that I needed to take care of her. She would wake up with a hangover and the best I could do was give her one of my favorite juice pouches and a cookie. She would start crying again and tell me that I was such a good girl. Remember when I missed school for a week?” “Yeah, the teacher said you were really sick.” “Dad and mom got into a fight. They were screaming at each other, I didn’t know what to do… I ran away from home, I went to my cousin’s house. I got to stay there the week even though he called mom. When I got home, Dad was gone and mom was passed out on the couch surrounded by empty cans of alcohol. Dad never came back after that, and mom got increasingly depressed. I didn’t know what was happening, Dad wouldn’t come home, mom was sad, I learned how to do things for myself quick because I had to support myself and mom. When I turned seven the nice elderly woman from next door began to teach me how to cook, and clean. I would make her little crafts to sell in her shop as a “payment” for the lessons. Mom barely noticed I was gone for an hour afterschool. She tried to be there for me, she would ask me how my day was, and would constantly give me hugs. I thought life was going good, that everything would be okay. Then when I was eight, everything went downhill…” He squeezed my hand slightly. “Dad came back to the house. He… He said nasty things to mom. I didn’t understand that well back then but as I grew older I understood what he said to her. He.. broke her… She wouldn’t talk anymore, refused to eat, refused to drink… After I came home from the sleepover at your house, I saw her… She, She was hanging from the ceiling, tears running down her face.” Pete looked horrified, pulling me into a hug as I continued. “The elderly woman heard my scream, and rushed over to see me staring at my mother screaming and sobbing. She called the cops, quickly getting her to the ground, checking her pulse. I was taken to the woman’s home, the police announced her dead and found a letter…” “I knew she passed but didn’t know what happened exactly…” Pete’s voice was quiet. “Dad got custody over me. He didn’t like the fact that I looked like mom. He… He did things. He let his ‘friends’ do things. I was nine at the time, and he sold me to his ‘friend’ for the night. Gave him 10 bucks to have his way with me. I tried to fight back but…” Pete looked livid. “I felt sick, the bad thing is that I couldn’t feel anything. I was numb, emotionally and physically. You and the others were the only ones that made me feel something… It continued until I was twelve, I had tried to fight but it was pointless. One day, Dad had enough of it. He slapped me, kicked me, cut me, burned me… He let his ‘friends’ have their way with me. The reason I began to miss more and more school was because of him. I got lucky sometimes and was able to sneak out and see you. He would add a new mark to the collection each time. Then when I was fifteen, he got drunk. He.. Had his way with me, then threatened to kill me if I said anything. Aunt May was the one to notice, the one day I came over she saw a glimpse of them… I confided in her, I didn’t want you to know because you would look at me differently. Or give up on me and that would have killed me… Dad found out when May called the cops on him. He was not happy, the longest scar was his attempt to kill me. The police did a search, and the court plead him guilty. I was in the hospital that month I missed school… My cousin got custody of me, then the accident happened, and I got my abilities. That’s pretty much it… I guess you’ll be leaving then?” I lowered my head, waiting for the rejection. “I told you. I’ll never leave you. I love you too much to do that. I’m glad you told me…” He pulled me into a tight hug, kissing the top of my head. “Really?” I teared up a bit. “Really.” He held me as I cried. I really felt loved for once in my life… All I know is that it felt good to get that off my chest. “I don’t care about the marks. Because these scars make you look even more beautiful to me.”

Sharmi

( I have no idea if I did this right and I’m quite sure I might have made few mistakes but it’s worth a try)

Sometimes there are instances when you can see your own life flashing before your eyes and it gets you thinking ” Is this where I want to be? Is this the place I still want to be in another 5 years?”

I had a minor problem, a fault perhaps. I was surely and indefinitely addicted to Alcohol. Don’t get me wrong it was not that type of addiction where one would kill for a bottle of beer or something far more stronger that leaves that burning sensation down your throat and a sting behind your eyelids. It was a addiction where when I didn’t know what to do-how to react- specifically, I turned to my new found companion. It didn’t shout back at me, didn’t call me names, didn’t say that I was a worthless mistake.

Infact it welcomed me with open arms and I embraced the feeling of not caring. Sure it was a great weight off my shoulders just to forget everything for a moment and just…… be. But then I’d wake up regretting every single thing I did the night before. Trust me that plus having a blasting headache ? not the best hangover tonic.

Now here I am in front of my car trying to think yet failing since I can’t even think straight to even start thinking about thinking.

That’s when I feel it. something poking at the back of my head. A shadow looming behind me.

”Leave the keys on the ground and turn away without a second glance and you won’t get hurt.” His vice was rough and he reeked of old garbage and dried up voldka.

There I see it again. All The time I’ve spent wasting away drinking without actually doing what my 21 year old self was supposed to be doing.

I took my parents money for granted and had the time of my life. A Audi sports car, expensive designer clothes, latest IPhone, all the girls I could ever imagine. And yet I felt hollow. An empty nutshell disguised as a perfect fruit.

This is the moment I change that. This is the moment the fight back. I’m not going to whole away anymore. I won’t be that worthless mistake any more. I am Rane Alexander after all and I won’t let a label define me. I’m going to get past this hazy fog and I’ll see the horizon again.

So I turned back and grabbed the man by his arm and sling him over hard sending the gun skidding across the dim lit parking lot.

” Not today” I breathed.

Nice…well done. I thought the ending was empowering…

Emma Palmer

Standing Still

I would like to tell you a story about a girl. There was nothing special about her at all-she was simply a girl. Every day she lived in pain. She lived in her shared room feeling so alone. Everything was white: the walls, the beds, the furniture. There was no creativity in the room, no evidence of the girl’s individuality-no posters, no color, nothing. Although, she did have one orange throw pillow that she didn’t want nor like. She hated the bland, bland room. Until she was forced to live in this room she saw white as a symbol of purity, harmony, and peace. Now she saw white as a toxic color, something that wasn’t even really a color at all, something that was devoid of emotion. Every day the girl took a shower in an attempt to wash away her skin that had been tainted by the room, but that simple act of cleansing soon became tiresome and it eventually stopped working. The girl felt dirty, impure, and alone. She was afraid-so afraid. She was afraid of being alone in her shared room in a shared house of seven people. She was afraid of not being heard, of not being able to speak. She didn’t know how she felt and she didn’t know how to express it. One day, the girl stepped into her shower, and stared at the white walls and the white floors and the white curtain and the whiteness of it all and she felt numb. She felt as if the blandness of her room and of her life had finally driven her emotionless. She stood there, feeling every singular drop of water sting her skin as if she was on fire and she felt nothing. Nothing-the absence of anything-shouldn’t feel as if the world was being torn apart around her, it shouldn’t feel as though everyone and everything were pitted against her, and yet this is the way the girl felt. She forgot that she was in the shower, where she was supposed to feel refreshed and cleansed, and she forgot herself. She leaned her head against the shower wall she wondered why the walls looked as if they were in so much pain. It was as if the very walls around her were feeling just as she felt. She stood and she thought. She wondered how long she would be able to stand there, with her head resting on a cold, hard surface. She stood in the shower too long, she stood there until the hot water turned cold and even past that. She stood there until she felt as though the pain building up inside her couldn’t take it any longer. And then, she moved. She placed one hand against the tile wall and she pushed, testing her strength-the wall remained still. She thought about how meaningless her life was and how she couldn’t possibly do anything important or memorable and she felt selfish. She felt selfish for wanting to be important. She felt as though all of her thoughts were not her own and that society had simply conditioned her to think them and she felt nothing. She felt trapped. She had nowhere to go, nowhere to be, no friends to run to, nothing. She felt alone. Her worst fear was unfolding as she began to panic. She thrashed in the shower as she desperately gasped for air, feeling nothing. Maybe she should stop gasping for air, maybe she should just give up. But no, she had to keep fighting. She turned and she turned the dreaded water off and it stopped. Just like that, it stopped, and she felt nothing yet again. She stood there, water dripping down her body, and she thought. She thought about how many mistakes she made and how many lies she’d told. She regretted everything. She wanted to stop feeling. She wanted to undo all of her wrongdoings and she wished she could fix the people she’d broken. She wished so desperately to fix herself. She stopped, she told herself to snap out of it and she felt nothing. She turned and she pulled back the bland, white curtain. She slowly took a step and then another. She stood right outside the shower and let herself feel the cold, rigid air on her skin because feeling something was better than nothing, right? She grabbed a towel and wrapped it around herself to shield her small, fragile body from the cold. She stood there outside of the shower, and she felt vulnerable. She felt neglected. She felt as if nobody cared at all. She truly thought that she had no one. She sat down on the cold tile bathroom floor and she felt defeated. She felt as if she could no longer go one. She stared at the water dripping from the faucet and she thought about how easy it would be to corrupt these white walls with her own blood just as they had tainted her with pain and sorrow and misery. She sat for what felt like hours and she thought. She realized that she couldn’t do what she so desperately wanted to do because she was just too afraid. She thought about spilling her own blood, just to leave at least a little bit of herself in that lonely room that would never truly be hers. She came so close-oh so close-to giving up, but then she remembered. She remembered a person and how that person made her feel. She remembered a smile like no other. She remembered arms that held her so tight and close that she actually felt safe. She remembered a face, a gorgeous face, that lit up the moment its eyes layed on her. She remembered feeling loved, so she stood up, turned to the door, walked into the white room, and the girl lived on to see another day, another sunrise, and another beautiful moment.

And I have a secret-that girl, that terrible terrible girl, is me.

I have a blog and have uploaded 190 articles and short stories averaging 1000-1400 words. 70% were political. My writing is purely a hobby although I did send one story to a publisher and they wrote that they liked it but being an unknown author I would be required to contribute £2,500 towards the cost of publishing this children’s picture book which was 800 words long. Is this normal?.

So far I have had 43,000 hits worldwide on my blog I am now writing fiction for girls aged between 12-17 and children’s picture books..

I have a blog and have uploaded 190 articles and short stories averaging 1000-1400 words. 70% were political. My writing is purely a hobby although I did send one story to a publisher and they wrote that they liked it but being an unknown author I would be required to contribute £2,500 towards the cost of publishing this children’s picture book which was 800 words long.

IS THIS NORMAL?.

Miss.Bridgit

Is this normal ?

I will get up off the chair and head for the PC, I will type two lines. At this stage they are nothing but the release of vague reflections triggered by my imagination. I may not use them but they have to escape the clutter and disarray of my thoughts and be planted like a seedling. Those two lines on a blank screen when germinated can blossom into an article, a story or a book; the blank computer screen is not unlike the painter’s blank palette waiting for the first glimmer of his/her artistry. A line of text can do the same, although it need not even be a line of text, one word can suffice.

The first line read “It was the evening of the annual Concert and Dance at……….. ” I turned the Pee Cee off and I went to bed. The next day the story took root and blossomed… ….

I will get up off the chair and head for the PC, I will type two lines. At this stage they are nothing but the release of vague reflections triggered by my imagination. I may not use them but they have to escape the clutter and disarray of my thoughts and be planted like a seedling.

Those two lines on a blank screen when germinated can blossom into an article, a story or a book; the blank computer screen is not unlike the painter’s blank palette waiting for the first glimmer of his/her artistry. A line of text can do the same, although it need not even be a line of text, one word can suffice.

The first line read “It was the evening of the annual Concert and Dance at the Denham College” I turned the Pee Cee off and I went to bed. The next day the story took root and blossomed… ….

Those two lines on a blank screen when germinated can blossom into an article, a story or a book; the blank computer screen is not unlike the painter’s blank palette waiting for the first glimmer of his/her artistry. A line of text can do the same, although it need not even be a line of text, one word can suffice. The first line read “It was the evening of the annual Concert and Dance at the Denham College.

I turned the Pee Cee off and I went to bed. The next day the story took root and blossomed… ….

Dori Acuff

Here a poem…

Roses are red Violets are blue I love you Do you love me?

Times I sit and think of you In hope as you think of me Your smile just makes me melt As I know my makes you melt.

I know you think I’m silly But you love me for it.

I hope this puts a smile on your face As it does my as I wrote it.

The sky is blue, the grass is green and the sun is warm just like my heart that beats for you. You make me smile more then the beautiful flowers that bloom under the warmth of spring and you put a sparkle in my eyes more then the stars shine in the night sky. You light my path better then a full moon in a clear night sky.

You are beautiful and I love you too.

It lights up my heart to see the words I write to you. I never thought I would ever meet someone like you. I have told you things happen for a reason and so they do. I want spend every waking moment to show you how I feel. My heart belongs to the moat amazing woman I know. Baby, that is you. I know here lately I’ve been hard to love but I promise things will get better. You are my rock and sanitary you keep me going when I think I can’t. I love u with all my heart, mind, body and soul. You’re my FOREVER. Just one more thing to say.

Don’t give up on me because I will make all your dreams come true in one way or another. I will love you until I take my last breath. Just keep on loving me for I know I am you’re Forever Love…..

That is the biggest poem I’ve ever seen

Luzerne

That is so nice and romantic but the poem is too long

Arikateku

Merp, I like this

Chris Jones

Beware: Bad language. These are two dispicible people being told honestly.

————-

Stew bent down and grabbed the dead man’s feet. “Because they’re faggots, that’s why. Why you care?”

Phil bent over and grabbed the dead man’s shoulders. “I just don’t think we should generalize people like that. That’s all.”

“One. Two. Three. Up.” They lifted the dead man off the pavement and shuffled over to the trunk of their Volkswagen. “I don’t give a fuck what you don’t think, they’re still dick-suckers. On three again. One. Two. Three.” They tossed the man into the trunk. Stew grabbed the dead man’s legs and contorted them in such a way that his fat ass fit inside, then he tossed a sheet over the body and slammed the trunk shut. “Queers, Phil. God ain’t got no love for a man sucking off another man.”

Phil was wiping his hands with a kerchief. When he was done he stuffed it back in his back pocket. The left one. “Maybe God doesn’t care, neither? Maybe we’re the ones, as a society, making a bigger deal out of it than it really is.”

Stew licked his thumb and rubbed it on his left tail light, smearing a dot of blood and making it worse. “Gimme’ a rag, would ya’?” Phil fetched a rag out of the backseat of the VW and tossed it to Stew. He spit on the rag and then wiped the taillight raw. “It’s in the fuckin’ bible, man. God said a man and a woman, not a man and a man. Now, don’t get me wrong, I got no problem with women dating women. I mean, come on, it’s sexy as hell. But two guys wagging their weiner’s in each other’s faces? Fucking gross.”

Phil stuck a cigarette between his lips and lit it, closing his eyes and inhaling. He opened his eyes and exhaled. A kid on a bike rode by, tossing a newspaper wrapped in a blue bag on the edge of the driveway. Phil watched the boy as he pedaled away, dumping papers on every driveway down the street. “Maybe the bible does say that,” he said, turning back to Stew. “Why’s it our business, though? Long as they keep it between them, how’s it hurting you?”

“It’s the principle of the motherfuckin’ thing,” Stew said, tossing the rag to Phil.

Phil sidestepped out of the way and let the rag fall to the ground. “Fuck off, dude. I don’t want his fucking blood on my new suit.”

“Well at least put it in the trash.” Stew wiped his hands down his pants, at which Phil cringed, then walked over and opened the driver side door. “We gotta meet Don in half an hour and we’re runnin’ late. Let’s go.”

“Stop for a taco?” Phil asked, bending over and grabbing the rag between two fingers.

“Sure. I’m starving.”

I Tried This is what i have so far…:

Isra Sonnet liked the quiet. Which was why she wished she were back home with her parents back in California, her cousin Eric was snoring very loud on the top bunk of the beds. She tried to block out the noise, but he seemed to be getting louder, and louder with each snort. Having enough of this, Isra grabbed her pillow and climbed up with it.

Holding steady onto the ledge of the bed, she smacked him with it. Hard.

Waking up with a start Eric looked at Isra annoyed.

“What is wrong with you? I was trying to sleep!” He flings the pillow on by his face,to the floor.

“You’re loud enough to wake the dead. Stop snoring like an old man.”

“If you’re so mad about it go sleep somewhere else…” Eric says drifting back to sleep, too tired to argue.

Sighing Isra climbed back down to her bunk bed. She knew it wouldn’t be long before Eric would start snoring again. Gathering her pillow from the floor and the blanket from her bed, she walked out of the room closing the door behind her.

Now, it was quite dark in the house. Though, Isra knew her way around the house from memory. She was careful to go down the stairs, and not to make too much noise to wake Eric’s parents.

In the living room Isra made herself comfortable on one of the couches. Placing her pillow down and wrapping herself in the warmth of her blanket comforted her. She sighed in relief. Now she could finally sleep.

Arianna

I really like it. It’s very detailed in my opinion. I’ve read a book like that called… “Wish”. I want to publish all six of my books when I get older. I’M ONLY NINE so maybe when i’m in my 20’s

isabelle

dont worry about your age. you can be just as good as any other writer. i am only twelve and i am almost finished writing my book that i am hoping to publish. go for your dreams, dont let your age stop you.

Erin J Scorgie

I’m 16 and have published my first book, best experience of my life, I am very close to publishing my 2nd book and sooo excited! Don’t worry about your age, the younger the better I say! You go girl and good luck with your writing career. You are a very gifted young lady! Xx

Kawiria

If you want to publish your books, why not now? There isn’t a law against young authors. I’m not much older than you, but my book is being published this year. All you need is the money to publish–that’s the REAL hard part for a younger writer.

DumDumDeeDoooo

Hey, don’t worry, I’m eleven and I deeply enjoy writing, and I’m looking to get a book published very soon. There’s no law forbading youngsters from getting books published… In fact, becoming a young author is one of the VERY BEST things you could do to benefit you in the future.

Quiet_Kitten

Yea I’m 11 and I’m gonna start writing stories on an app called Wattpad

Rachel Sanpaka

It’s a great way to get feed back and to start sharing your stories.

Arigato

The temperature was searing. Tara squinted her eyes as wavy lines of heat danced in the distance. Michael shuffled out of the taxi behind her and bent to drop 30 pesos in the driver’s expectant hand. “Why did we have to come all the way to Acapulco just to get our teeth cleaned?” Tara whined like a child dreading the dentist. “We’re not just getting our teeth cleaned”, Michael explained, “I need 4 crowns, you could use some fillings, and dental work is so much cheaper in Mexico. Plus, it’ll be like a vacation as soon as we’re finished. I have 3 days of the most romantic stuff planned for us, just wait.” Tara smiled at the thought of what Michael’s idea of “romantic stuff” could be. It was 9:15 am Thursday, if all went to plan, they would be partying on the beach Friday night. The shop they had been dropped off in front of was a modest, stucco covered building with one dark window bearing a small sign that read “Dentista”. They were 45 minutes early for their appointments but hopefully that meant they would be done sooner. 30 minutes and 16 pages of paperwork later, they were ushered down a brightly lit corridor to a room containing an x-ray machine. Once finished there, they were led to adjoining rooms. Each contained nothing more than a large, green dental chair, procedure light, and metal rolling cart filled with shiny, sharp instruments. “The dentist will be right in,” said the plump assistant in a thick Mexican accent. Since the office saw so many tourists, the staff all spoke in English, and this reassured Tara that it wasn’t so bad after all. She was looking up at a poster of an aquarium filled with fish that was taped to the ceiling when the dentist strode in. He was tall, about 6 feet, with dark hair, dark eyes, and a brilliantly white smile. While peering at her x-ray films, he rattled off a list of work that she needed, and she agreed, not really understanding just wanting to get it over with. The plump assistant appeared and placed a mask over Tara’s nose and mouth as she crooned, “To make you comfortable!” The last thing she noticed before she lost consciousness was the poodle print scrubs the assistant was wearing. Tara woke up being shaken by Michael. “Come on let’s go, I’ve been finished for an hour.” She groggily sat up and placed her hand to her warm, swollen cheek. The assistant was back, handing Michael prescriptions for pain killers and giving him instructions not to eat for 2 hours. They stepped outside into the bright sun and began walking slowly towards the nearest intersection where they could hail a cab. After a short taxi ride they arrived at Hotel Catedral, a quaint, boutique inn on the outskirts of the city. The room was cramped, but clean, and after a quick shower, they both laid down and quickly fell asleep. The next 2 days were spent drinking, lounging on the beach, and making love. Tara awoke late Sunday morning and started packing. While she would miss relaxing on the beach, she couldn’t wait to get back home to her apartment. Her stomach had been bothering her on and off throughout the trip and she thought it may have been the water she was drinking. They took a taxi to the airport and the trip home was uneventful except for a few severe stomach pains Tara had on the flight. She took a few more pain pills and they eased up enough for her to take a nap. They barely had time to walk through the door when Tara felt a sudden urge and bolted to the bathroom. “Are you okay?” Michael called from the hall. “Fine, just gimme a minute!” Tara snapped, and Michael went in to the living room and laid down on the couch. When Tara had finished in the bathroom, she stood up and saw something strange in the toilet. It looked like what appeared to be several small balloons floating in the water. “What the…” Tara stared confused, and called for Michael to come into the bathroom. He popped his head in the door and looked at her questioningly. She pointed to the toilet and he shook his head as if to say, “I’m not going in there.” Tara walked to the sink and grabbed a pair of tweezers sitting near the mirror. When she reached towards the toilet, Michael yelped, “What are you doing?!” “Shush, hold on!” she said. She pulled back the tweezers and pinched in the end was one of the balloons. She carried it to the sink and quickly rinsed it off. Michael came closer and said, “That came out of you?” ‘Yeah, gimme something to cut it open.” He produced his pocket knife and she proceeded to make a small slice down the center of the balloon. A white powdery substance spilled from the cut. “Oh my god, it looks like drugs! Tara exclaimed. “How did this get inside me? It must have been the dentist! I told you we shouldn’t have went down there for dental work! What are we gonna do?” “Maybe we should go to the emergency room and get checked out? Michael suggested. “Ok but we should just say our stomachs are hurting and not say anything about the drugs. We don’t want them thinking it’s ours and taking us to jail.” After spending 4 hours in the ER, a CAT scan and bloodwork, the couple was assured that they were in perfect health and probably ate something bad. They headed home, relieved there were no more foreign objects in their bodies but worried about what to do about the dentist. “He can’t get away with this, said Tara excitedly, he probably does this to tourists all the time!” “But if we call the police and tell them our story, they might think we’re involved somehow,” said Michael. They arrived back at their small Austin apartment and decided to eat some dinner and think the matter over some more without rushing to alert the police. After all they were safe at home and had no plans on leaving the country any time soon. Maybe they could just put this whole thing behind them like a bad dream. A crazy story to tell the grandkids. Once the dishes for dinner had been washed and Tara was settling down on the sofa next to Michael, a knock sounded at the door. “Who could that be? “Michael asked. He got up, slowly walked to the door, and peeped through the eyehole. On the other side of the door were 3 well-dressed Latino men. The one standing closest to door was dressed in black pants and jacket with a tucked-in turquoise shirt. He spoke first. “We know you’re in there and you have something that belongs to our boss.”

Crystal Fresneda

I wrote two stories so far Murderous Twins (Mystery) and Pregnant at 18 (Drama n Romance) total words for both 27000

Christine

THANK YOU FOR THIS. I LOVE TO WRITE AND I NEEDED INSPIRATION!!!

Husnain sheikh

My First Story.. I woke up late that morning, too excited to sleep at first and then I don’t remember when I dozed off to sleep early morning. Bright sunlight hit my half open eyes and I jumped off from the bed. It was 8:00 am already.

“Mama … why didn’t you wake me up? Has he left already?” Mother smiled “Its Sunday! Didn’t felt like waking you up from deep sleep you were in, besides you must have been dreaming, there was beautiful smile on your face. And don’t worry Papa won’t go without you.”

I was super relived and ran to hall, where my dad was ready, waiting for me. “We are going to City, right?” He simply nodded and smiled “Now get ready else we will miss the bus”

I ran to bathroom for shower and within seconds was out and in front of mirror combing my hairs. “Dry them properly, your hairs are wet, you’ll catch cold”

But here I was holding my dad’s hand and pulling him out of the door. We took bus from the bus stop and were on our way to City.

Finally the day had arrived when I was going to get my first Bicycle. It all started when my dad promised to get me Bicycle if I score good marks in final exam next year. All my friends had their own bicycle. Even my juniors had their own.

I patiently waited for one year to get my dream bike.

On the result day I was very nervous. When there was announcement that I stood first in 5th C, I jumped up in air and almost snatched my report card from our class Teachers hands.

I was telling everybody on my way back that I was going to get bicycle, since I stood first in class. After reaching home I told mom about the result and she was very happy. Then dad came back from work in the evening, he was very happy to hear about my results and patted on my back.

“So you are going to get me Bicycle” I said with glimmer in my eyes. “Let’s see” he simply said taking off his shoes

I was almost broken in tears to hear those words. He had not said no but neither did he say yes. I broke down “this is not fair, you promised”.

Next day, mom broke the news to me that finally I am going to get my Bike this Sunday.

Squeezing sound of halting break of bus brought me back to present. “We have reached, Lets go” said dad.

We reached the Big Bicycle store in Gol market. There were so many bikes, I just couldn’t take my eyes off. I picked the one with Marron color. Salesman explained the features to me. I looked at dad expectantly, he nodded and I hugged him.

Dad went in to meet the shop manager, I waited outside to see my bike being assembled by the worker. I saw dad having conversation with the shop owner. I don’t know what was wrong but dad came out.

“Let’s go now we will come next week, and take this Bike home” dad said with his fingers in my hairs. I couldn’t believe my ears. After waiting for almost a year I am getting my bike and now he is saying to wait for one more week.

I threw his hand away in disgust and ran away to hug my bike and started crying. Dad tried to convince me that He had assumed the Price of Bicycle to be lot less. And now he doesn’t have enough cash to buy this bike.

But I refused to budge down. I was so much carried away by anger, I couldn’t see the nervous face of my father. It must have been really awkward for him to face this situation.

“Okay. Let me see what can be done!” he went in. I waited outside partly sobbing and partly smiling.

Few moments later dad came out smiling. I knew he had bought the bike and we were going to be taking it home today. This was happiest day of my life.

It took me few years to understand that my dad had sold his ring that day to fulfill my wish!

Marsha McCroden

This is what I’ve got so far:

Capt. Lee asked for interrogation volunteers. The Interrogation Rooms were full and there weren’t enough interrogators. Lt. Jones volunteered. She told him thee was a suspect in Interrogation room D. Should be easy — a straight-up homicide. Just tape the confession.

Entering IR D, he saw an inconspicuous middle-aged man. Inconspicuous? Maybe 100 years ago.

Lt. Jones introduced himself and sat down. He sat down and said he was there to get the man’s side of the story. Then he turned on the recorder. The man looked at him with amusement. “Do you really want my confession” he asked. Jones said he needed the man’s name and address first. “All right. I am Daniel Alan James, address 132321 Atlantic Avenue, Plot D3.”

Jones looked up sharply. “That’s a cemetery. Your real address please.” I get the nuts, he thought.

“I am not ‘pulling your leg’ as you so quaintly think. That is my address.”

“As to my confession. In 1869 in Palm Beach, I burgled May Palmer’s house I got a sackful of jewelry. I also hacked off her head. Sternly he looked at Jones. “You kept that back. He acted like that fact should have been publusged,, like he wanted credit for it.

“In 1920, in Miami Beach, I attended a speakeasy. I abducted a somewhat plump girl, Cynthia Handel, and eventually disposed her of in the Dismal Swamp.” Chuckling, he continued. You could say the alligators had a fine meal that night.

In 1936, Cleveland, Ohio. I presume you’ve heard of the Torso Murders there? The Mad Butcher of Kingsbury Run? It was never solved. Poor Eliot Ness — he wanted so badly to be Mayor of Cleveland and not just Safety Director. That case would have given him the Mayor’s office. I denied him that.””I

Above the gables of the orphanage roof, a tremulous, gentle sound began to keen. It began quietly, as oh so fragile a thing. I held my breath where I had awakened in my bed to keep from drowning it out- the sound of a human singing through a violin.

I knew exactly who it was that sang. She had come in just that day, eyes wide, mouth closed, and a violin case clutched to her chest like it was the only thing she had left in the world. I was older than her and so in a different dormitory, but still the sound found its way, sorrowfully, lovingly, through the still night air.

The sound of it made me want to cry, as it stirred in me a pain I’d long ago learned to shove away, the origin of which was the only thing that me and the little virtuoso child shared. It unfurled itself deep within me, reaching out for the sound as it grew, grew louder and more powerful as the beginning upset turned to something more violent, something filled with righteous indignation at what had happened to her… to… to me. Tears welled up in my eyes and I curled into my pillow as I fought the onslaught of emotions. The anger, the injustice, the harrowing *grief*. It all slashed and dove and resonated through the air- through my soul. I curled around the reopened wound, feeling the unreleased cry of pain inside of me. But the tears still fell. They were like rain.

Suddenly the vibrancy in the tone fell flat. The last ringing note was undulating through the air, twisting with fading passion, as a quieter, stiller strain took its place. Dispirited and exhausted, the muted notes struggled to find me, and I imagined them getting lost. It was both a relief and a loss as I felt the raw emotions drain away. It felt… hollow. It was like how I usually felt only much, much worse, the sheer weight of it making it a pain all its own, although it signified the absence of it. It was a rock I couldn’t push off my chest, or a vacuum inside of me. It *hurt*.

Still, my eyes dried as I listened to the dispassionate, lilting notes. They bumped into each other with pattern but no passion. The lack of colour in it compared to everything else the little violin girl had played almost made me want to cry again- for her this time, instead of me. I wanted to comfort her. To tell her that she could find a family here again… even if it wasn’t the same.

But then- then something magical happened. I heard something in a note shift. Just ever so slightly, regaining some of its lost fullness. My heart jumped against my rib cage at it, like a baby bird too eager to be out of the nest. The sound broadened and deepened, spinning and growing to an unimaginable size and intensity, filled with such thought and memory as one can only know inside themselves. I couldn’t imagine that something of such monumental size was coming from such a tiny person and her instrument- no, her partner. Her friend. It had to be her friend to join her in all this.

The graceful creature grew and grew on when I thought it could grow more. Time had lost all meaning to me as it tapered and streamlined itself into something lighter- losing its weight and despair- but not its memory. That stayed. I could feel it within me, too- the warmth that was spreading through the song. It touched at my fingers and toes, the tip of my nose, and the center of my belly. I let out a breath as the weight- the vacuum, whatever it was- released, no longer afraid of it or drowning out the soaring melody that cozied into the corners of the resting place of me and so many others that had experienced what this other child was experiencing right now.

But I knew, as the music carried on through the night, a peaceful balance between love and light and sorrow, that she was going to be just fine. We were all going to be just fine.

zainab

This inspired me so i tried it came up with this so far

Things have been difficult lately. Even breathing seems to take a lot of effort. But grief often shuts people down. And everything seems to blur out. You must be wondering what broke me? Nothing just the same old heartbreak that broke souls in every time period.

That night I made my way Aden’s house. We had been dating for almost four years. He had asked me to marry him a week ago and I had to ask my parents if they accepted they’re daughter to get married at 21. To my surprise my parents had said yes and I was on my way to blow Aden’s mind with the amazing news. I rang his doorbell several times even though I knew where they key to the door was kept but manners were still important. After fifteen minutes of standing out the door my mind started exploding with thoughts I shouldn’t be thinking about. Aden’s car was still parked in the garage which meant that he was still home. I rushed to get the keys from under a plant pot and opened the door. Aden’s house was a mess but Aden was a clean freak. I made my way to Aden’s room and gently opened the door to see my whole world crashing in front of me.

Aden lay in bed with another women pressed to his side as they slept. No words, no tears just an apology. Just two words “ I’m sorry “ and I ran down the stairs, across the street and away from the person I had given my everything.

You see every person leaves a mark behind. But Aden , Aden left behind the deepest scars.

Mark Robson

(please don’t judge, I’m only 12. And btw I’m a girl. I’m using my dad’s account)

It’s dark. My own shadows drown me. This is nothing new to me though, I’m not shocked or scared. Just lonely. Nothing to look forward to I’ll thing myself sitting and think, hoping. I don’t know how long this lasts, seconds, minutes, hours. I can’t sense the time passing, I don’t fully understand it. I don’t know how I got here or when I’ll leave. My life feels like it has no meaning. But yet, somehow I feel like I’m waiting for something, this longing for something to happen. But at this moment in time…I’m not really sure. I must have had more than this life, I must have lived in something different, color, happiness, friends, family….love…maybe, or is that me dreaming?

Have I lost my mind completely now. Maybe I’m not even here, In this darkness. Am I just mad? Why am I even asking…I’ll never get an answer. Sitting here hoping dreaming will do me no good! I must fight back. I’m not sure what I’m fighting for but if I do have a motive to fight then it must be worth it. Without thinking I lunge into the dark clouds. Fighting, not with any weapons but just by my longing for whatever is outside this lonely cage. The chains of my fear and uncertainty tug at my arms pulling me back but using all my force I shake them off and continue forward through the endless darkness…This place must end. There must be an ending for me, more than this dark realm. I jump forward, ready to scream as I hit the floor but I don’t have to. I didn’t fall…Am I..floating?

No, I don’t feel like I’m standing. I feel something on my hand but I can’t see what it is or even move to shake it off. Then I suddenly realize. The thought that I’ll no longer be lonely, this thing I feel, it’s a person. These thoughts, my feelings they allow me to take control. I slowly open my eyes. It all shoots my at once colour…light! I’m lying down on a bed, a hospital bed. My memories come soaring back. I look over to my right hand and see the lady holding it, in shock, but smiling brightly. It’s my mother! And in what seems like the longest time ever…I smile.

Courtnie

Clark stood at the window and watch as the first snow started to fall. He thought back to when he was a little boy and how he loved to go outside and play in the snow. The snowmen him and his sister would build, the snowball fights him and his friends would have. Then his smile changed to a sad face. He remember the last first snow fall that happen when he was a kid. That was the last time he was happy about seeing the snow. Clark’s father Ernest was at the local convenience store, when two mask men came in to rob the place. One of the robbers told Ernest to give him his wallet. He did but a long noise from the back of the store in scared the robber that he jumped and the gun he had pointed at Clark’s father went off and shot him in the chest.

Clark was home in the bed, but he jumped up out of his sleep, he felt that something was wrong. He got out the bed and went looking for his mother. When he got to the end of the hall he saw his mother at the door talking to some police. She turned when she heard the floor Creek. ” Clark honey, what are you doing up”? His mother asked with blood soaking red eyes . ” mother is everything alright? ” with every step he took closer to his mother he knew that what ever reason the police was at his house it wasn’t good. Every since that Dreadful night Clark, the night his dad was killed, he has hated the snow. It always seems to remind him of that night. It’s like all the good times he had in the snow was replace by the death of his dad, his hero, the man he wanted to grow up and be. They never did find the guys that robbed that convenience store.

Pradeep

Conceited Conflict

Simon did not die…

The inviting aroma of freshly brewed coffee had been enough to persuade him to walk straight into the little beach-side shack without as much as a second thought. He had made a mental note to thank Danny–his colleague and friend–for suggesting the place for a quick getaway.

People close to Simon knew that he savored these small pleasures of life: a peaceful evening relaxing at the beach, the blushing horizon as the sun set for the day, the scents of the tropical sea, the areca nut trees swaying to the music of the breeze, the waves at the shallow end lightly caressing his feet, the warm texture of the sand slipping away beneath his toes, children running around flying colorful kites… cocoa-rich dark chocolates, and fresh coffee.

And why not? After all, he thought, what was life without these? Nothing but a stressful grind, it was. To fight the distressing official battles day in and day out. To struggle to defeat the unethical schemes of the back-stabbing lot who lurked among colleagues and friends. To come back home to the nagging demands of a materialistic spouse. All that did nothing good for the soul.

It was late evening when Simon had walked toward the shack. When he got closer, he had noticed two men standing engulfed by the dark shadows behind the shack. Although he could not discern their features, and they were speaking only in whispers, their body language had betrayed the fact that they had been exchanging an agitated conversation.

As Simon was about to enter the shack, one of the men thrust a wad of money into the other’s hand. The other man briefly regarded the bundle before stuffing it into his trouser pocket.

A drug deal, likely–Simon had thought–or some other such shady business. How could these people come to such spectacular and peaceful places and engage in such disreputable and squalid acts? What a disgusting lot!

He had shaken his head to clear his thoughts, and inhaled deeply as he entered the shack. Freshly brewed coffee! He had smiled as he sat at a small, round, plastic table in a corner. All other concerns would have to wait for half an hour, at least.

Outside, unknown to Simon, the deal had been concluded. The men had followed up by exchanging a small vial of some sort. Then one of them had raised the hood of his jacket over his head and walked away swiftly without turning back, with his hands in his pockets. The other man had vanished into the darker shadows behind the shack.

The next afternoon…

Although–when it concerned professional life–Danny lacked severely in the department of moral and ethical values, he was regarded in their circles as a gem when it concerned friendship. He had rushed to the hospital at once when Simon’s wife had called. Dysentery–she had told him, repeating the doctor’s diagnosis–perhaps acute food poisoning. Very severe symptoms. Quite unbearable. Must have been something he ate yesterday.

Danny had stayed on at the hospital with Simon’s wife to lend her moral and emotional support. He wanted to make sure–he had said–that she got all the help she needed; he wanted to make sure that Simon recovered all right.

The third evening…

Simon rested motionless on a bed at St Sebastian Hospital. Motionless. Still. He wasn’t even breathing. He was finally free of all suffering.

Epilogue 1…

Normally, convincing a chemist and obtaining the required substance might have been the biggest challenge. On this occasion, however, a well-maintained friendship with a pharmaceutical assistant had proved quite rewarding.

The rest was simple to plan and execute. Simple did not mean without risk, but in this case the desired reward would be sufficient compensation for the risk.

The dosage would be just right. The doctor would have only the patient’s symptoms to go on, which would be easily mistaken for those of common diseases such as food poisoning or dysentery.

It would all be over even before anyone suspected foul play. Even if other signs did manifest afterwards, there was no incriminating evidence.

Epilogue 2…

Simon had felt the first signs of fatigue when he was almost half way back home from his getaway spot. He had believed that the nausea was caused by travel-sickness. Later that night his condition had become worse, and next morning he had tried home remedies for diarrhea. By afternoon, he had started discharging blood, and had to be hospitalized immediately.

Danny had stood by his bed in the hospital, looking in his weak eyes, holding his hand reassuringly. Behind those heavy eyelids, in those weak eyes about to close, Danny had seen a faint spark of realization. The reality of the deal he had witnessed behind the coffee shack had dawned on Simon. I wish you understood, my friend–Danny had thought–that it was nothing personal, that everything is fair in professional rivalry. In any case, it was too late now. There was no turning back.

Don’t strain yourself trying to talk–Danny had said–Just close your eyes, let go and relax.

— End —

(I’m only 12 so don’t judge me, I tried :D)

I’m alone. I’m surrounded by darkness. I’m lonely, I have no-one except silence to keep me company. I’m not sure how long I’ve been here…Minutes, hours….days? They mean nothing to me, I don’t know how time passes and why it matters. I’m too close to giving up. Surely my life must mean something. I can’t have been made to just be nothing, to exist only feeling, loneliness and fear. The fear of being forgotten, by this world, by myself. If I’m not already.

There must be meaning for me, something bugger, better. It’s all I want, all I ever dream about. A life with meaning, color, happiness…family. But that’s just a dream. That can’t be real, I have no memories out of this place why would I be suddenly be gifted such happiness. Is this it? I am going mad? Have I been here so long just lost my mind? No. That can’t be. I can’t give up, I must try….try escape this realm of darkness. I stand up, shaking slightly. No, I must be strong! I run forward, not sure where I’m going. Not sure if this place even ends.

I start hearing voices, they’re speaking to me… “stay…strong…everything’s going to be ok” I hear the voice saying. It was comforting, gentle and kind sounded. It sounds familiar….I run faster, using all of strength. I race through the darkness, wind smacking my face until I come to what looks like the edge. It was a drop, so deep I couldn’t see the bottom. Without thinking, using all my desire, the want to be somewhere with meaning and happiness I lunge forward and jump.

I…I didn’t fall. I’m alive, I think. I don’t feel like I’m standing. Wait, am I floating? No, don’t be silly. I’m…lying. I feel something touch my hand but I don’t have strength to even shake it off. I can’t see anything…Then suddenly reality hits me. I slowly open my eyes…It all hits me at once: Color, sound, people. I look over to my right hand to see who was holding it. She was crying but smiling at the same time. It was mother. And for the first time in what seemed like forever, I smiled.

Lykke

“I’m borrowing one of your geese.”

Asta jumped in her seat by the fireplace, woken from her accidental nap. She whirled in her seet to see Jeppa, the slightly unhinged neighbour, filling the doorframe. He looked like any regular farmer, brown coveralls and pipe dangling from the side of his mouth, but sported a permanent wide-eyed stare that made the children (and everyone else) wary of him. Asta had half a mind to go back to sleep and let Jeppa be Jeppa, but curiousity got the best of her.

“Pardon?” She asked, slowly getting up, her arthritis crackling in her knees. “You’re borrowing what?”

“I’m borrowing one of your geese,” He repeated, unblinking. Then he turned on the spot, as if the conversation was over and done with.

“But why?” Asta exclaimed, hopping after him on stiff legs into the front yard. Three of her large, snowy geese were drowsily waddling through the hole in her white fence as Jeppa marched over and seized one of them by the neck. The other two hurried into a nearby hedgerow, abandoning their brother to fate. Jeppa stood there for a moment and admired the view over Asta’s fields, completely obvious to the furious flapping and hissing of the goose.

“What are you doing? Let go of him!” Asta cried, but Jeppa remained blissfully ignorant to the chaos he created.

“Beautiful day, isn’t it?” Jeppa sighed happily, still unblinking. Then, remembering why he was strangling a goose, he heaved it up under one arm and took off towards his own rickety cottage a few hundred yards down the gravel road.

“Wait!” Asta cried, limping after him. When she finally caught up to him he was crawling up a worn ladder propped against his roof, hissing goose tucked into his armpit as if it was nothing more than the daily newspaper.

Finding her best old-angry-crone voice, she howled; “Jeppa! Get down this instant! What on earth are you doing with Herman?”

This seemed to reach the decision centre in Jeppa’s head, and he stopped on the topmost rung. He stared at the wobbly chimney for a moment, as if pondering its existence, before replying. “I can’t afford a chimney sweep,” he commented simply. Then, with both hands, he heaved the goose up in one fluent motion and dumped it into the chimney. The hissing and flapping increased in volume, projected into the open air by the narrow chimney, until it became unbearable to listen to. Then it stopped. The goose must have fallen into his fireplace.

Asta’s mouth fell open. She sat down on her bum like a baffled toddler.

“Are you alright there? You look like you saw a ghost!” Jeppa chuckled obliviously as he descended from the roof and moved to let the goose out of his kitchen. The moment the door opened, a great, fluffy black thing scuttled out and down the road, hisses and quacks flying about it like the soot covering it.

“That,” Asta said, her voice quivering, “was my prized competition goose, Herman.”

Jeppa finally seemed to realise the extent of his actions. Wringing his hands he inched towards the door, hoping to use it for protection when she exploded, which she was bound to do.

“Isn’t… isn’t there a competition for black geese, perhaps?” Jeppa asked, hopefully unblinking.

Sebastian Halifax

Most short story ideas I have are too big write in just one sitting. The first one I wrote took months. It’s why I can’t write flash fiction.

I’m trying to write Flash Fiction. I love the challenge. It’s amazing how you can cut out redundant word from each editing. Try it, Sebastian. It’s good practice.

Edlyn

Okay, here goes: Persephone, Persephone Akeldama. She was a beautiful girl, slender waist, flowing blonde locks, petite figure. This quiet girl was often referred to by her fellow students as the “perfect doll”, due to her stunning looks and the love she received from the teachers. In a the darker half of this world, her nickname was not much different. The flawless puppet, she was called. Flawless because of her swift assassinations, and puppet because of her emotionless features. No one in school knew her profession, and no one in the dark world knew her real age, or even what she looked like. She was a complete mystery to both sides, only this was known about her: She is a prodigy. Of course, “Prodigy” meaning different things in either sides of the world. There was a large gap between prodigy killer and prodigy student. Not many assassins are born into their jobs, Persephone being an exception. At three, she was already trained to fight, and at the early age of twelve, she was already a well known assassin. due to her quick learning, her parents payed even more attention to her, punishing her whenever her actions did not fit into the range of perfection, training her more than any twelve year old should ever have to endure. And of course, making her kill. One by one, Persephone’s emotions died, every person she killed, every order she received. She carried them out with swift and deadly accuracy, losing all her innocence. Her purity was lost long ago.

So she found nothing wrong with killing her parents.

Persephone never loved anyone, because she was a killing machine, exactly how her parents had designed her. Her mothers last words: I’m so proud. Her fathers? :I’ve trained you well. A now orphaned Persephone felt no remorse, no guilt, no grief. Only a small pang of loneliness.

And that was the last emotion she would ever feel.

Ummmm, I got the juices flowing, just need my writing to flow……in the right direction.

Sapphire Emmaton

So I combined all 10 of the “general ideas” into one premise. I think this is more the premise of a collection now… Oh well. Here’s the premise (or the rough draft)

As a child, Kell, a painting prodigy, discovers her parents’ dead bodies, leaving her emotionally scarred. Later in life, she clings to her boyfriends for moral support, which leads to many failed relationships. Her Fiance and colleague breaks up with her because he needs to spend more time on his work, even though it crushes both of them. Kell doesn’t look when she’s walking down the street, sobbing, and she bumps into her rich soulmate, Neil. They have a whirlwind romance, which ends up with their marriage. On their honeymoon, though, Kell’s mother’s ghost confronts her and warns her to delay the journey. Kell and Neil go anyways. A hurricane strikes, and the couple is stranded with a phycopath who just so happen to be Kell’s parents’ murderer. The couple doesn’t make it out alive.

I know that’s pretty dark, especially for a 17-year-old. It’s also not that great. But hey, I hope it gave you an idea or two! Happy writing!

Emily Cummings

You should really think about turning this into a novel! You’ve got quite the imagination.

Maude Kate Potgieter Bester

The last laugh Kate Bester

“What? Oh heavens no! When?” Faye dragged the pink sweatband back from her forehead and shook her shoulder length blonde hair off her neck. She had just returned from the gym when the house phone rang.

“…sometime last night, peacefully. She had to go sometime, Faye.” Debbie’s longsuffering voice was irritating.

Faye sighed and shifted the weight from one shapely leg to the other. She crossed one ankle over the other and stared at her Reebok trainers. She bit her tongue before she could blurt out what came into her mind – why now? She had a very special and important occasion coming up and serious shopping to do!

“Mom was nearly eighty, you know Faye, but death is always unexpected, I know,” Debbie went on. Was she imagining it or was there a touch of accusation in Debbie’s voice? Deborah, her older sister, had never married. Instead, she stayed with Mom after Dad passed on ten years ago and took charge of the rambling old house in George. Come to think of it, when Debbie gave up nursing, moving in with Mom was the natural thing to do.

Faye had to muster all the self-control that she could to sound genuine and concerned. It was Mother after all…

“When is the funeral, then? Do you want me to come and help you with the arrangements?” she kept her voice low and even in case Debbie thought she was serious about the offer to help.

“No thanks, Faye, everything is fine. Mom had everything in place as usual. It will be a cremation of course…”

Debbie’s voice trailed off and Faye could just about suppress the groan that escaped from her chest before she said goodbye to her sister. She sank down in the closest, huge, overstuffed chair after she had put down the receiver. Of course. That is Mother. Well, was she corrected herself. Nothing ordinary or conventional. A cremation no less, so that all her old hippie friends could attend in their colourful rags and long hair and chant and blow their flutes and shake their tambourines. Faye had to admit to herself that a cremation at least would be better than embalmment. Her mother was quite capable of having them roll her in the scales of the boophone bulb like the Khoisan did with their dead.

Faye groaned again. She must be in shock otherwise why wasn’t she crying. Crying? No, she’d done enough crying after the second divorce in eight years. The last one was particularly messy but this time she stuck to her guns and got the house and a stiff alimony. Not that it’s about the money, which is never enough anyway, but one has to keep up appearances. She had spent a fortune on refurbishing the gazebo next to the pool. Oh gosh yes, and she must still pay for the embroidered voile curtains around the patio. And for the plant containers and cane furniture from Bali…

Faye sighed as she levered her challenged limbs from the chair. She will have a warm shower and then make her calls. Damn! Now she will have to drive all the way to George. She smiled. Yes, she will have to. Because of Mother’s pendant. She had to have it. Must be worth a small fortune by now…

That pendant was given to her mother by a very grateful Indian businessman. Mother had met him on a plane to Mumbai all those years ago when she travelled to India to see for herself what mysteries lay behind the lotus curtain. She ended up in his luxurious home and taught the whole family to speak English while she enjoyed every facet of that exquisite culture. If memory doesn’t fail her, the pendant has a top quality eleven carat flawless ruby, enhanced by… a shiver of delight passed through Faye’s body despite the warm gush of water.

At the garage to fill up and prepare the vehicle for the trip, she remembered how bored she was on weekends as a child. They travelled endless dusty roads, slept in tents, either sweating or freezing. Her botanist parents would be off in the veld , ooohing or aaahing, clicking their tongues and cameras. Deborah would be whooping somewhere in a shallow river. In her tent, her feet against the anchor pole, Faye swore she would never live this way. She would have money and everything it could buy. These bunny-hugging weirdo’s – her family – may enjoy the outdoors but she despised the smell of citronella candles, morning coffee and tinned food. Not to mention the squatting behind a bush when nature called. Ugh!

At nine o’clock the next morning, Faye was over the Overberg Pass and heading for Caledon. She would stop for tea at the Blue Crane and buy some of her mother’s favourite dried herbs. Yes, some buchu and lavender and rosemary. She’ll keep them on her lap during the cremation service and speeches to soothe her mind. Afterwards she will let them join her mother’s body to nirvana…

It was exactly twenty past one when she saw the huge pine trees and the red brick house behind it. The garden was a botanist’s dream. Like her mother exactly – colourful, mysterious, exciting and completely unusual. Faye’s eyes followed the garden path up to the porch. Handfuls of laurel tied with raffia or beads or leather thongs garnished the pathway from the gate to the porch and around the open door’s frame where fairy lights twinkled.

She opened the car door and slid off the seat. The manicured feet in the Blahnik sandals stepped together neatly on the tarmac as she automatically pressed the remote lock. Gingerly she approached the garden path and as daintily as possible made her way to the house.

Then it hit her. This wasn’t a welcome for her. The laurel symbolized Apollo’s way to remember his Daphne! Daphne didn’t want to marry Apollo and begged her father, Perenaeus, to hide her. He promptly turned her into a laurel tree. From then on Apollo worshipped the tree, hugged it, spoke to it and let all heroes and kings wear a laurel wreath on the head as adornment. This was for Mother.

Suddenly, there was her sister. Oh heavens, clad in a flowing caftan, pearls, beads, feathers and leather thong sandals, she could’ve been Mother!

Quickly Faye went over and folded her sister in her arms. While her sister was yoga-breathing against her shoulder, she took in the room behind. She smiled to herself . Ostrich feather boas were draped over the window frames, door frames and thrown over the backs of chairs. Huge black and white photographs of ostriches in all poses adorned the walls. Ostrich eggs and paraphernalia were displayed everywhere. This was a shrine to the ostrich as Nieuw-Bethesda was to the owl…

She let go of Debbie and cleared her throat. She took a deep breath, “Debs, what are we going to do with all this stuff ?” she hoped her chicanery would go undetected. Back in her mind there was an image of Mother’s ostrich leather handbags, shoes and purses she had collected before it became export posh. Her heart went on a gallop from excitement and anticipation.

At last they were alone. They cleared away the last few cups and plates. In the kitchen, Faye poured two large tumblers of Merlot for her and her sister.

“Sis, if you’re up to it, we can go through Mom’s things and decide what to do about some of it.”

“Of course, my dear.” Faye gulped.

Then the pendant was in the palm of her hand. This was a testing moment. She wanted to hang it around her neck immediately but thought it would seem callous. She let the heavy gold chain slide sensuously through her fingers while the ruby’s red eye winked at her.

“You have it, Faye, it’s too ostentatious for me. Mom also never wore it for that reason.”

“And these, Sis.” Debbie was on all fours in front of a deep drawer. She was pulling out ostrich leather gloves in every colour, handbags, clutch bags, more boas. They lay on the Kelim carpet like offerings to a queen. Faye stared and stared. “Oh yes!” her mind sang.

After breakfast the next day, Faye took her leave of Debbie who promised to visit as soon as everything was tied up and settled. When she was passing Mossel Bay, she started to relax and fingered the pendant at her throat. A warm glow filled her and she stretched to see it again in the rear mirror. It was an exquisite piece! She still felt surprised at how nonchalant Debbie was.

She decided to stop for refreshments outside Swellendam. She enjoyed stretching her legs in the shade of the old trees and watching the goats, chickens and ostriches they kept there for entertainment. She parked in the shade of a huge oak tree and went to the restaurant. She carried her fruit juice over to the enclosure on the lawn. A billy goat came towards her. Behind him a young ostrich craned its neck. A sheep, two lambs and a kid trotted up. Faye leaned forward.

She shrieked, jumped back and feverishly fumbling at her throat, she saw it

Ostriches also like jewellery.

Evangelin

I have not written a very long piece. It a quite short story. So…here it is…

Sydney woke up with a start, as beads of sweat adorned her furrowed brows. Next to her was her twin sister, Tanya, sleeping peaceful as Sydney had been a couple of moments before. She looked around as if searching for something or someone. Sydney almost dismissed the episode and went back to sleep when she heard it again, this time, even evident. The sound that had woken her up from her slumber. The sound that made her shiver and was even vexing than the sound of nails on chalkboard.

And then, it stopped. She looked around her for the source of what she heard. She decided to get some fresh air and walked out of the room she shared with her twin.

As she walked to the porch, she glanced at her reflection in the mirror. She couldn’t put her finger on what was wrong but she knew something was. She leaned in to get a closer look at her reflection when something hit her head and she fainted. When she regained her consciousness, she looked around her. She was in the porch and it was dawn. She went back into her house when she glanced at the mirror again. She could see her mother, her sister and her father. They all looked around as if searching for someone. What she couldn’t understand was why she couldn’t see her reflection in the mirror. Then, realization struck her like a ton of bricks. She was in the other side. Of the mirror.

Then the ending credits rolled in. Though it was just a trailer, it was well shot. Everyone couldn’t wait to see the full movie. We congratulated our friend, Mills, who had shot the film and went to hang out at her place.

Cortney Swar

Wonderful ideas. Thanks for inspiration.

Alia Moore

*I’ve been wanting to write for a long time but never really got the push until right now. Sorry if it’s bad, it’s my first short and I’m 14* “One, two, three. Perfect, now I can go…” I quietly say to myself. I have something called Pure-O. Some people think that it’s worse than “normal OCD”. The others think that it’s completely unreal and it’s made up. What people don’t know about me is that I have Pure-O and it’s completely real and my life revolves around it. I make sure that people don’t find out about it because I am considered “ popular and high-status” where I live. “ Happy, good thoughts. Nothing bad.” I think to myself. “They won’t find out….hopefully. I am Claire Williams who has the best makeup and the straightest hair. Not the Crazy Williams girl that broke down in front of everyone because her presentation wasn’t how she planned it.” I think. Then the flashbacks swoop in and fill my brain. “Hi my name is Claire Williams and I am doing my presentation on the Economic Downfall of 2008…” I pause and look around. I see people snicker and talking. The teacher is just looking at me and gesturing for me to continue. I get scared and forget everything that I worked so hard to memorize. “Umm. I’m sorry ma’am, I can’t finish.” I tell my Economics teacher. When I try to move and collect everything, I can’t move. “No no no no no this can’t be happening. I can’t be having a panic attack at school.” I think to myself. I feel tears well up into my eyes. They slowly fall down my face and I taste the warm salty fluid. I suddenly tense up and can’t breath. Because no one knows about my condition, no one can help me. “Look! Williams is going crazy! Crazy Williams.” I hear people snicker from the back and the attack gets worse. I hear something new in my flashback…. It sounds almost as a ringing. I realize the bell is ringing for the students to get to class. I come back to reality and hope for the best on my first day of Senior year. I mean after all, it’s just school. Nothing bad could happen right?

Helen Kudatsky

PEN-082a 694w Anne Frank, Bella and Me by Helen Kudatsky

At nine, I bought my mom, Bella, a birthday gift on June 12th, a magenta lipstick for 19c. I was so proud. First present I ever purchased. She made me return it; It was too extravagant, and besides, she said, “every day is my birthday.” I cried. I knew her secret though. although a proper Jewish woman, sometimes she longed to be a gypsy.

Now, 60 years later, I’m reading “The Diary of a Young Girl” by Anne Frank, here in the home where I live. Though nursed, I’m often blue that I can’t dance or paint anymore. But I love to read and write, and my friend, Julie, the librarian, kindly brought me Anne’s book, which I am now devouring.

Anne was an eloquent writer, describing her schoolmates and boyfriends. She began the diary at 13, disclosing her first period, having a special secret and becoming a woman. I too began to menstruate at 13, pondering the mystery. It’s horrid to imagine eight people in 1944, crammed into the Secret Annexe, handling eating, sleeping, hygiene and trying to stay alive, while whispering and tiptoeing to avoid discovery by the Gestapo.

To maintain normalcy, the adults set up a plan. The children continued their studies: Dutch, French, English, history, geography and art. Although Anne liked most subjects, she found algebra notably loathsome. I’m in that club too.

Her people have become my friends and family: Anne Frank herself, Edith, her Mummy, Otto, her beloved father, Margot, her sister, and the others hiding with them: the VanDaans, their son, Peter who was first, her friend, then later, her crush and confidant, Dr. Albert Dussel, the dentist and Moortjie, the cat. Four of Otto’s devoted employees provided food, supplies and world news, which kept them alive and boosted their morale.

After the war, Miep, a helper, found Anne’s diary in the demolished remains and rubble of the annexe. She gave it to Otto, the sole survivor of the group. He was stunned by Anne’s maturity and the breadth of her feelings. The Diary has been published in 67 languages, portrayed on stage and screen, and is considered one of the most moving accounts of the Holocaust.

For those of us beholding atrocity, Anne Frank is a beacon: humorous, inquisitive, forgiving, cheerful. Sometimes moody, though, she was nicknamed “the incurable chatterbox.” as she’d quarrel with others in the Secret Annexe they occupied for their 25 months in hiding.

My mom, Bella, shared a birthday with Anne Frank, June 12th, but didn’t know of it until years after Anne’s death. Bella lived to be 95. She loved reading as much as Anne did, and she wrote poetry and stories, but didn‘t start until middle-age. Anne, 15, died in March 1945, just two weeks before the war’s end, when she would have been liberated. In two years of hiding, Anne was devoted to writing in the diary, at times prosaic, sometimes distraught, frequently terrifying, but often funny, spiritual and uplifting.

If the war had only ended sooner, I imagine the writing that Anne could have produced and I envision Bella meeting her. Bella, born in 1913, Anne in 1929, 16 years her junior, they could have been aunt and niece; I see them sharing a Shabbat dinner, singing a Hanukah song; I picture them speaking one of their languages. They believed in the same things. Finally, I dream of them proudly sharing their writings, a mystery, a story of love and longing, a poem, and of course, on June 12th, their mutual birthday.

I dream of them walking hand in hand, pale wrinkled fingers holding a smooth teenaged palm. They come to a table set before them, on it matzoh brei with applesauce, a plate of potato latkes with sour cream. There are apples and honey, wine and rugalech. Bella and Anne eat heartily and shout for joy, no longer whispering or tiptoeing, no longer afraid to be Jewish women writers, no longer afraid at all.

PEN-082a-Anne Frank, Bella and Me.wps by Helen Kudatsky w:09/03/17 ei 09/19/17 694 wds 08 mn 99 Park St.#104 Brookline,MA 02446 C-617-939-3387 e-m: [email protected]

Luke Johnson

My story plot is of the fantasy/adventure type.

In the fictional town of Surron, Colorado (which is surrounded by high mountainsides from every angle, a tragedy occurs on September 5, 1963. Six-year old Robert “Bert” Aruson witnesses his drunken, abusive father murder his mother with a broken beer bottle. Advancing on him, the father sleeps on another discarded bottle and trips, impaling himself on the bottle with which he killed his wife. Robert runs off into the forest to escape his father to look of help, unaware of his father’s death. With his parents living far back into the woods, he ends becoming lost and spending the night in the forest. A mother bear, Dewa, with two cubs of her own, the boy Gemape and girl Biha, discover the young boy and adopt him into their family, christening him with the new name Nuun. Ten years later in 1973, Nuun has led a happy existence with his loving and supportive new family, having even made new friends like the crow Hai and the mouse Naeene. He even prevented unnecessary violence between his family and a wolf pack led by Dande and Gupa. Any hunters that come into the forest have their weapons stolen and permanently disposed of in the night by Nuun. By this time, Nuun and his actions have become something of an urban legend in Surron. Back in that town, the mayor Aaron Burdon (who resides upon a hill overlooking the town) runs the town, though he views it with contempt due to one incident. His younger brother, Reagan, was beaten by thugs hoping to steal money off of his rich person, leaving him with brain damage. Despite this, the townspeople started treating him and his brother differently afterwards, cruelly even. This has caused his hatred to ferment over the years until he comes up with a plan to destroy the town’s population with explosives at the upcoming July 4 picnic. His wealth and power make the workers unable to resist him, as they will become jobless should he imprisoned. “Nuun” comes across one of Burdon’s worksites and almost steals workers lunchbox, but is chased away. News soon spreads through the town and Nuun finds his happy life in danger of being shattered once again unless he can have assistance from friends both human and animal.

Luba

Nikita This is the story of me, Nikita, an orphaned girl, who didn’t know anything about her family. I was kept in the orphanage with a bunch of other girls. Ms.Keeper, the owner of the orphanage doesn’t tell anyone anything about themselves or their family. I didn’t know anything about myself, but everyone knew that in Ms.Keepers room there was a filing cabinet with documents of the real stories of our lives. Nobody ever dared to go in there though. Ms.Keeper looked like she was somewhere in the 30’s, she had grey hair, bags under her brown eyes, a slim body and a huge pimple on her long nose. She was not married. I have brown hair, brown eyes, freckles and a healthy, slim body.

I always thought of running away. I felt like I was in that orphanage forever. I remember growing up in there since I was a child and now that I’m 17 years old, I’m still here, hoping to find my family. But that, I thought was too unrealistic. I was sitting in an orphanage, hoping to find my family. No, I wanted to DO something to find my family. The only thing that held me back was Ms.Keeper and the thought that I really had no family. Ms.Keeper was always afraid of one of the girls running away, that’s why she made some workers put a stronger fence around the orphanage property. Ms.Keeper was also afraid of talking to the government. I thought so because the government will shut down her orphanage. One time, I overheard Ms.Keeper talking on the phone to the government and they said that it was illegal to not show the orphans their identity and who they are, but Ms.Keeper ignored them and kept talking about something else. Also, at 18 years old, you are free to leave the orphanage and become independent. I just turned 17. No one else was my age except another girl, aged 14 and all the rest were smaller than her. There was once a girl named Gabby who was the only person who was older than me. Just last year, she turned 18 and was supposed to go. On her birthday, Ms.Keeper made an announcement at the last moment that Gabby was leaving right now and is right by the door. Every girl ran out to give her hugs and goodbyes. Ms.Keeper didn’t even move. She didn’t even say bye. It was so cruel of her. We didn’t have a birthday cake with Gabby because Ms.Keeper threw her out the door on her birthday!

Everyday, Ms.Keeper lets us go outside for one hour, three times a day. We ate mostly sandwiches and drank water and sometimes juice. We also had some snacks, which were mostly fruits. We did school during the day too but this wasn’t real school. Ms.Keeper taught us everything. Ms.Keeper also bought us a TV, which was in the dining room. We mostly had everything we needed, except a family.

One day, when Ms.Keeper let us go outside, I was lying on the grass by myself at the farthest point from the orphanage. Then all of a sudden I heard someone coming. I looked up but saw no one. When I turned around, I saw a boy, looked like he was 15. He had brown hair, blue eyes and was tall. He said “hi” to me and I said “hi” back. We talked to each other for awhile until Ms.Keeper called us in. I really hoped that Ms.Keeper didn’t see me talk to that boy because she would punish me.

For the next three days, I talked to that boy over the fence every recess. He told me about his life and it really surprised me. He said he had a house as big as the whole orphanage (the orphanage is as big as a hotel). He said he had his mom and dad living with him, that he has money, any kind of drink, and lots of junk food. He played video games everyday and watched TV and also he quit school. His mom and dad don’t care about what he does as long as he’s home by midnight! When he told me this, I started thinking, is every life out there like his? What is everyone’s else’s life like? I couldn’t sleep that night or any other night after that day.

Soon, we became friends and he asked if the orphanage was boring. I didn’t even know what to say because it was alright living in the orphanage but compared to his life, it was nothing. I didn’t say anything and he asked if I wanted to run away to his house. I, of course, was surprised and didn’t say anything for awhile but then I said I would think about it. Ms.Keeper called us inside, and I don’t know why but she never caught me talking to him. Ms.Keeper usually stands by the door of the orphanage, looking into the field of how we are playing. I was farthest away from her so maybe she doesn’t see so well.

After those days, I couldn’t sleep because I kept thinking of running away. But how was I supposed to run away? If I got caught, I would be punished and I would have to be a slave to everyone, washing dishes, sweeping, and cleaning. Besides, I couldn’t run away because we all slept in rooms with four people to each room. Our room was the farthest away from the exit. I would have to tip-toe (at night?!?) through the whole orphanage just to get to the exit. No, I couldn’t do it. I was too scared. But that boy kept assuring me that everything will be okay.

I talked it over with the boy and I decided to run away with him at night, at 11pm because he had to be home by 12pm. By 8pm, all the girls in the orphanage would be sleeping, but Ms.Keeper stays up till 10pm, listening to classical music in her favourite rocking chair. As not to wake Ms.Keeper, the boy suggested that he would come to my window at night and I would climb over. Our room was on the lowest level – level one- so it was the closest to the ground. It was supposed to happen in two days from then. I was very nervous and scared, and I kept looking at Ms.Keeper if she had any suspicions, but it didn’t look like it.

It was the day of the run. I packed all my stuff, which wasn’t really much. I put all my clothes in my pockets (it fit perfectly). I was wide awake that night, listening till Ms.Keeper turned off her classical music and went to bed. It was perfectly silent. You could hear every single breath of the girls. My tummy had a trillion butterflies in it and I couldn’t stop my heavy breathing. At 11pm, there was a quiet knock at my window and I knocked back. That was our signal for letting each other know we were ready. I then looked at everyone in the room. They were sound asleep. I opened the window and it’s super squeaky. I waited a moment to see if anyone woke up, but no one moved. I climbed over the window to the boy. I closed the window with a loud squeak and started running with the boy to wherever my feet let me go. It was a dark night and only the half-lit moon was our source of light. The boy led me through streets and streets of houses until we came to a huge house. It was so pretty. It looked like the orphanage but it had no spiderwebs. It was clean and super nice. It looked like they were rich to have all those diamond stuff on the door.

They boy opened the door and the light hurt my eyes. It was so bright in there, so big. The stairs were curved, like I only saw in fairy tales, and there was his mom standing in the doorway. She first smiled, but when she saw me, she made a confused face and came closer. I was so scared. What would his mom do? Did he tell his mom about me? My brain threw me a thousand questions to answer of which I didn’t know the answers for. The lady came closer and asked the boy slowly who I was. He told his mom that I was a friend from the orphanage. His mom got angry, her face started to turn red and she started to talk louder. She started saying that I’m filthy and that she doesn’t want to see me ever again and to get out off this house. I looked at the boy. He started to cry. I tear went down his cheek. He begged his mom to let her stay for the night but his mom didn’t budge. The boy’s mom shut the door on me and I was outside in the cold.

All of this was for nothing. This meet we had. All the recesses we talked, all the nights I didn’t sleep, and I couldn’t go back to the orphanage now. I was alone. I didn’t even know where to go. I got off the boys lawn and I sat down on the sidewalk, crying and I realized I didn’t even know what the boy’s name was! Suddenly, I heard a door open. I looked back to see if it was the boy’s mom. No, it wasn’t. I looked around and saw that the boy’s neighbor has opened the door and was calling me. The person at the door was a grandma. She told me to come in. I stood up and came inside. She told me that she heard the neighbors talking loudly so she went to see what the commotion was about. She asked me if I wanted to eat but I refused. She sent me to bed, not knowing anything about me. She was so kind to me. She sent me upstairs where I had my own room. I fell asleep very fast, and I slept till lunch the next day. I forgot all about the orphanage and went downstairs to meet my hero. She was making breakfast for me. We sat down at the table and she told me her name ( Grandma Laura ) and I told her all about my life. Every single thing. When I came to the part about the orphanage, her eyes widened.

Grandma Laura told me that many many years ago, she was the owner of the orphanage! The government fired her because they thought she wasn’t suitable for the job. When she went away, she made photocopies of the documents of the girls and kept them because the girls were so precious to her that she couldn’t just leave them. Grandma Laura stood up and went upstairs to go get them. When she came back down, she had a whole ton of documents! She found one by the name of Nikita.

That morning changed my life. She let me read my own document. It figures out that my real mom died while having me. My dad was still alive. My dad’s name was Walter Eggons. The grandma’s eyes widened when I told her the name of my dad. She told me that that was her husband! So Grandma Laura was my mom? She didn’t die? But Grandma told me the whole story. My dad, Walter, first married a lady named Agnes, and they had a baby named Nikita ( that was me) and during childbirth, Agnes died, but I lived. Later, my dad could no longer care after me so he dropped me off at the orphanage when I was 1 year’s old. For my dad, that was a hard decision. He had to work but he couldn’t leave me at home and there was no one to look after me. After my dad’s wife died, he married Laura. Laura was sitting in front of me, tears in her eyes and on her cheeks. She then told me the saddest news- my dad died of cancer a couple months ago. I started choking back sobs, and then tears. Grandma Laura was the only family I had. She was my stepmother.

It has been seven years since that happened and right now I am sitting with tears in my eyes, telling you this. I live with my stepmom and my husband, Jeffrey. Turns out that after that day, I lived with my stepmom for a couple months but then the boy’s mom found out that I was still in this neighborhood. The boy was so happy to hear that, and he told me his name- Jeffrey Jones. We soon joined our friendship together and a couple months later, we were married. Also,he wasn’t 15 years old, like I thought, he was 17.

-Written by Nikita Eggons-Jones

Nora

I hope you like this so far tell me what to improve on.

Gunnvor is the daugter of a powerful samurai but that is only thing that they have in common. Her father is a ruthless man who fights for war, on the other hand Gunnvor fights for humanity, no one can see her true colors because they want to believe she wants bloodshed as well like her father. She hates their thoughts, imprisoned in her fathers hand, the only way to escape, is for some one, like her, to save her in the outside.

As she swoon her sword with grace she sliced the broom like heads off. Her father and mother were observing her progress as a warrior, when she was do she went to her parents and bowed. She left leaving them behind a cold chill settled on them, the mother knew why the father ignored. Gunnvor loved to walk in the town down below her house, all the people were Good-hearted and kind in every way. She sometimes is jealous of the children for having such free lives. But she does not listen to her selfish conscience, she walked across the flower bridge as a gentle men suddenly bumped into her. “Oh sorry about that I didn’t see you,” Gunnvor quickly got up embarrassed for fall. She looked up and saw man that was strong but kind, she then noticed that he didn’t recognized him, he look like he was from another country. She then suddenly pulled her sword pointed it near his neck. the man was taken aback, he looked shocked and then said ” Yes did I say some thing offensive.”

“your not from here are you,” She moved a little closer, her sword started to dig into skin. “Yea I’m just traveling, I came from the neighboring kingdom, I thought they were in good terms…..right?” He backed away a little from the sword cutting his neck. Gunnvor then lowered her sword slowly, The man rubbed his neck just to find that it is bleeding “by the way what is your name,” she sheathed her sword in it’s case. “My name is gunnvor,” He quickly whipped his head to her “What the, Gunnvor, the daugter of the samurai.”

“Yes.” she turned and started to walk away and stop slightly turned her head ” And you,”

“Uh my name is Cota.” he said then Gunnvor walked away, when she arrived at home she swept past her father to her bed room. That night she could not stop thinking of Cota, she thought how strange he was dressed and the way he looked. The next how ever her father again trained gunnvor, the train this time was diffrent, he was pushing her to far.

Many days have past and Gunnvor noticed that Cota was spotted many times near her house. Then when she training with her father which was basically torture, Cota came up to her father ” You will stop hurting her,” He said slowly and manically. However he was not moved “My wife has convinced you to protect her,”

“No I came In my own accord.” The father then spun and grabbed his sword and pointed to cota. “Well then can fight me,”

“We”l see,” cota grabbed his sword and the two fought, they fought for a few hours and the father was vanquished. Cota then went to Gunnvor and asked her hand in marriage.

Luba Lishchenko

Nikita This is the story of me, Nikita, an orphaned girl, who didn’t know anything about her family. I was kept in the orphanage with a bunch of other girls. Ms.Keeper, the owner of the orphanage doesn’t tell anyone anything about themselves or their family. I didn’t know anything about myself, but everyone knew that in Ms.Keepers room there was a filing cabinet with documents of the real stories of our lives. Nobody ever dared to go in there though. Ms.Keeper looked like she was somewhere in the 30’s, she had grey hair, bags under her brown eyes, a slim body and a huge pimple on her long nose. She was not married. I have brown hair, brown eyes, freckles and a healthy, slim body. I always thought of running away. I felt like I was in that orphanage forever. I remember growing up in there since I was a child and now that I’m 17 years old, I’m still here, hoping to find my family. But that, I thought was too unrealistic. I was sitting in an orphanage, hoping to find my family. No, I wanted to DO something to find my family. The only thing that held me back was Ms.Keeper and the thought that I really had no family. Ms.Keeper was always afraid of one of the girls running away, that’s why she made some workers put a stronger fence around the orphanage property. Ms.Keeper was also afraid of talking to the government. I thought so because the government will shut down her orphanage. One time, I overheard Ms.Keeper talking on the phone to the government and they said that it was illegal to not show the orphans their identity and who they are, but Ms.Keeper ignored them and kept talking about something else. Also, at 18 years old, you are free to leave the orphanage and become independent. I just turned 17. No one else was my age except another girl, aged 14 and all the rest were smaller than her. There was once a girl named Gabby who was the only person who was older than me. Just last year, she turned 18 and was supposed to go. On her birthday, Ms.Keeper made an announcement at the last moment that Gabby was leaving right now and is right by the door. Every girl ran out to give her hugs and goodbyes. Ms.Keeper didn’t even move. She didn’t even say bye. It was so cruel of her. We didn’t have a birthday cake with Gabby because Ms.Keeper threw her out the door on her birthday! Everyday, Ms.Keeper lets us go outside for one hour, three times a day. We ate mostly sandwiches and drank water and sometimes juice. We also had some snacks, which were mostly fruits. We did school during the day too but this wasn’t real school. Ms.Keeper taught us everything. Ms.Keeper also bought us a TV, which was in the dining room. We mostly had everything we needed, except a family. One day, when Ms.Keeper let us go outside, I was lying on the grass by myself at the farthest point from the orphanage. Then all of a sudden I heard someone coming. I looked up but saw no one. When I turned around, I saw a boy, looked like he was 15. He had brown hair, blue eyes and was tall. He said “hi” to me and I said “hi” back. We talked to each other for awhile until Ms.Keeper called us in. I really hoped that Ms.Keeper didn’t see me talk to that boy because she would punish me. For the next three days, I talked to that boy over the fence every recess. He told me about his life and it really surprised me. He said he had a house as big as the whole orphanage (the orphanage is as big as a hotel). He said he had his mom and dad living with him, that he has money, any kind of drink, and lots of junk food. He played video games everyday and watched TV and also he quit school. His mom and dad don’t care about what he does as long as he’s home by midnight! When he told me this, I started thinking, is every life out there like his? What is everyone’s else’s life like? I couldn’t sleep that night or any other night after that day. Soon, we became friends and he asked if the orphanage was boring. I didn’t even know what to say because it was alright living in the orphanage but compared to his life, it was nothing. I didn’t say anything and he asked if I wanted to run away to his house. I, of course, was surprised and didn’t say anything for awhile but then I said I would think about it. Ms.Keeper called us inside, and I don’t know why but she never caught me talking to him. Ms.Keeper usually stands by the door of the orphanage, looking into the field of how we are playing. I was farthest away from her so maybe she doesn’t see so well. After those days, I couldn’t sleep because I kept thinking of running away. But how was I supposed to run away? If I got caught, I would be punished and I would have to be a slave to everyone, washing dishes, sweeping, and cleaning. Besides, I couldn’t run away because we all slept in rooms with four people to each room. Our room was the farthest away from the exit. I would have to tip-toe (at night?!?) through the whole orphanage just to get to the exit. No, I couldn’t do it. I was too scared. But that boy kept assuring me that everything will be okay. I talked it over with the boy and I decided to run away with him at night, at 11pm because he had to be home by 12pm. By 8pm, all the girls in the orphanage would be sleeping, but Ms.Keeper stays up till 10pm, listening to classical music in her favourite rocking chair. As not to wake Ms.Keeper, the boy suggested that he would come to my window at night and I would climb over. Our room was on the lowest level – level one- so it was the closest to the ground. It was supposed to happen in two days from then. I was very nervous and scared, and I kept looking at Ms.Keeper if she had any suspicions, but it didn’t look like it. It was the day of the run. I packed all my stuff, which wasn’t really much. I put all my clothes in my pockets (it fit perfectly). I was wide awake that night, listening till Ms.Keeper turned off her classical music and went to bed. It was perfectly silent. You could hear every single breath of the girls. My tummy had a trillion butterflies in it and I couldn’t stop my heavy breathing. At 11pm, there was a quiet knock at my window and I knocked back. That was our signal for letting each other know we were ready. I then looked at everyone in the room. They were sound asleep. I opened the window and it’s super squeaky. I waited a moment to see if anyone woke up, but no one moved. I climbed over the window to the boy. I closed the window with a loud squeak and started running with the boy to wherever my feet let me go. It was a dark night and only the half-lit moon was our source of light. The boy led me through streets and streets of houses until we came to a huge house. It was so pretty. It looked like the orphanage but it had no spiderwebs. It was clean and super nice. It looked like they were rich to have all those diamond stuff on the door. They boy opened the door and the light hurt my eyes. It was so bright in there, so big. The stairs were curved, like I only saw in fairy tales, and there was his mom standing in the doorway. She first smiled, but when she saw me, she made a confused face and came closer. I was so scared. What would his mom do? Did he tell his mom about me? My brain threw me a thousand questions to answer of which I didn’t know the answers for. The lady came closer and asked the boy slowly who I was. He told his mom that I was a friend from the orphanage. His mom got angry, her face started to turn red and she started to talk louder. She started saying that I’m filthy and that she doesn’t want to see me ever again and to get out off this house. I looked at the boy. He started to cry. I tear went down his cheek. He begged his mom to let her stay for the night but his mom didn’t budge. The boy’s mom shut the door on me and I was outside in the cold. All of this was for nothing. This meet we had. All the recesses we talked, all the nights I didn’t sleep, and I couldn’t go back to the orphanage now. I was alone. I didn’t even know where to go. I got off the boys lawn and I sat down on the sidewalk, crying and I realized I didn’t even know what the boy’s name was! Suddenly, I heard a door open. I looked back to see if it was the boy’s mom. No, it wasn’t. I looked around and saw that the boy’s neighbor has opened the door and was calling me. The person at the door was a grandma. She told me to come in. I stood up and came inside. She told me that she heard the neighbors talking loudly so she went to see what the commotion was about. She asked me if I wanted to eat but I refused. She sent me to bed, not knowing anything about me. She was so kind to me. She sent me upstairs where I had my own room. I fell asleep very fast, and I slept till lunch the next day. I forgot all about the orphanage and went downstairs to meet my hero. She was making breakfast for me. We sat down at the table and she told me her name ( Grandma Laura ) and I told her all about my life. Every single thing. When I came to the part about the orphanage, her eyes widened. Grandma Laura told me that many many years ago, she was the owner of the orphanage! The government fired her because they thought she wasn’t suitable for the job. When she went away, she made photocopies of the documents of the girls and kept them because the girls were so precious to her that she couldn’t just leave them. Grandma Laura stood up and went upstairs to go get them. When she came back down, she had a whole ton of documents! She found one by the name of Nikita. That morning changed my life. She let me read my own document. It figures out that my real mom died while having me. My dad was still alive. My dad’s name was Walter Eggons. The grandma’s eyes widened when I told her the name of my dad. She told me that that was her husband! So Grandma Laura was my mom? She didn’t die? But Grandma told me the whole story. My dad, Walter, first married a lady named Agnes, and they had a baby named Nikita ( that was me) and during childbirth, Agnes died, but I lived. Later, my dad could no longer care after me so he dropped me off at the orphanage when I was 1 year’s old. For my dad, that was a hard decision. He had to work but he couldn’t leave me at home and there was no one to look after me. After my dad’s wife died, he married Laura. Laura was sitting in front of me, tears in her eyes and on her cheeks. She then told me the saddest news- my dad died of cancer a couple months ago. I started choking back sobs, and then tears. Grandma Laura was the only family I had. She was my stepmother. It has been seven years since that happened and right now I am sitting with tears in my eyes, telling you this. I live with my stepmom and my husband, Jeffrey. Turns out that after that day, I lived with my stepmom for a couple months but then the boy’s mom found out that I was still in this neighborhood. The boy was so happy to hear that, and he told me his name- Jeffrey Jones. We soon joined our friendship together and a couple months later, we were married. Also,he wasn’t 15 years old, like I thought, he was 17. -Written by Nikita Eggons-Jones

Retarted Stuff

Yoyoyo its generikb here and today we are playing roller coaster tycoon

John Smith

Anyone got ideas for a short story titled as Leornard’s Fatal Oversight. In need of help asap.

Mary M

Ugh, this is getting do frustrating! I thought to myself as I struggled through the streets. My ankles kept twisting every time I slipped. Heels are so not comfy. I shouldn’t have worn them. As if my struggle wasn’t enough, people were pushing me as they passed me by. I was being shoved left and right amidst the bustling sidewalks of New York. Feeling fed up, I decided to lean onto a nearby store to regain my balance. What an awful idea it was. Unfortunately, I have miscalculated the distance between me and the store and I ended up leaning on thin air. I tried to right my footing before it was too late but I ended up tripping on my own feet. With a loud oomph I slammed into a passerby. Papers went flying around us as we both fell to the ground.

“Oh my gosh! I am so sorry.” I tried to hurriedly stand up but I ended flat on the ground again. “I didn’t mean to! I was just trying to lean on the wall to regain my balance since it’s the first time to wear heels, and oh my god, it is very hard and painful.”

The person nodded quietly and started gathering the papers. I got to my knees and tried to help. “I was supposed to be looking smart for today’s meeting, but I don’t think it’s been working out so well. I bet I look as smart as a baboon’s butt.” I heard the person chuckle but I went on with my rant, “I also bet that I am a total mess; I don’t how will I meet everyone at work this way. Oh man! They sure will give me an earful of criticism!” I didn’t realize I had been holding on to the few papers I collected while he tried to pull them from my grasp. “Oh, I am so sorry, once again,” I said still holding on to the papers while I got up, “I didn’t realize I was holding on to the documents…it’s not like I’ve read them; I’m just guessing they were documents as your suit looks neat and yeah.” I tugged gently on the lapel of the suit and finally raised my eyes to his face. My eyes probably widened as I saw him for the first time. To cut it short, he was hot! Like smoking salmon hot; or more like hot chili pepper that Indians eat hot! Now I’ll give all the details, I know you want them…I would want them if I was listening to one of my friends telling me such a story. Anyways, he stood a good foot or so taller than me. He had light brown hair styled backwards. His angular, defined jaw was covered with a five o’clock shadow. Bright hazel eyes shone with amusement as a slight smile covered his lips. “I don’t usually talk to strangers as much as I do. God! I’m coming off as talkative! I am not usually the talkative type; I seriously don’t know what is wrong with me today. And whoa, you look handsome,” my eyes widened in shock as he raised both eyebrows, “Did I say that out loud? Oh my god, I said that out loud. I didn’t mean to say that…I don’t mean you’re not handsome, because you’re one hell of a man; I just mean…Ugh! Now I’m coming off as a weird man-gazing half-crazed stalker. That is if I’m not fully crazed. I don’t think I’m making any sense…I should probably get going.” I went to turn around when I felt a tug onto something I’m holding to. With a confused look I looked to my hands and found the stack of papers. With a not so faint blush, I handed him the papers, “I’m sorry again.” I threw my hand behind my shoulder pointing in the opposite direction, “I should probably get going,” I said with a sheepish smile. I turned to leave again, but I was stopped…again. He cleared his throat, “I think you’re forgetting something.” “Um…no, I think I’m,” I turned his way to find him holding my bag. I awkwardly stepped to take it and said, “Thanks. I’ll see you around, not that I know where you are…I’ll just get going.” I took my bag and headed off in the opposite direction before I could embarrass myself any further. As I waited for the subway, I recalled what just happened and face palmed. I took the short ride to the office to compose myself. I was in for a surprise once I entered the meeting room, though. The man I bumped into was standing at the head of the table. “Good morning everyone, before starting today’s meeting, I would like to introduce you to the company’s new CEO…” Well, I wasn’t expecting this. I sat rigidly on the chair once we were told to. “Good morning everyone, I am Nathaniel and I am looking forwards to working with everyone on this team,” he said with a smile on his face. “Mr. Nathaniel, I would like you to meet our best employee, Ms. Felicity Brown.”My boss pointed my way and I wish he hadn’t. Nathaniel’s eyes found mine. They were filled with amusement. Oh this was going to be a long day.

And this, kids, is how I met your father.

Joseph West

A great (and family friendly) writing site is http://www.storybird.com

I might write a story about a girl who was born a princess but all her family died on a ship except her aunt and cousin…she gets taken to an orphanage and everyone else thinks she died too and she gets adopted a few Years later she goes to school and everyone is talking about her…one days she finds out that… oh u want to know well I’ll probs write a story about it on wattpad so u can look for it, it will be called…A princess???

Dianelwnz

Four new members have a look at couch on top of Crestwood center ship

high school graduation sports activitiestrail Softballand therefore Swimmingbeach ball Tennismales adolescent girls info Field HS HS WrestlingCollege Pro Submit ScoresSubmit

WRIGHT TWP. In all perhaps had to be the most significant reorganization matching presented among Luzerne regional 11 institutions zones, Crestwood school panel swore located in four sign ups compared to the ne member, repairing incumbents which are either of them missing in action unique reelection tenders belonging to the primary or elected to get not to research another phase.

wayne Brogna, Stacey Haddix, Kimberly Spath and thus Lauren McCurdy got been sworn appearing in thursday night. The four bought conducted completely considering that the to produce enhancement community. really earning incumbent from a big part that do survived habitual grievance in past times two very long time came anna Hollock Bibla, which will garnered your ex first four year terms the particular snowboard. you become a member of in 2017 because of profitable an exclusive two year sitting.

The aboard had been proven a good solid director in just cost Jones deleted the primary. He extended in the direction this quite get-together ahead departing the barrier. But contact considering his or place for year isn an exciting new face. really 5 4 election with all four rookies in opposition of, james Costello vice president in the past year came branded president.

following the meeting, Brogna documented can lone even talk to gain themselves even so that he fully Costello ran into finished loads of dubious ballots the actual game board during the last two growth cycles. he explained he’s talked containing Costello together n’ your own questions that can the pup, but admitted no sign ups may possibly well most try out the us president job, if he or she. so which he wasn safe voting for Costello.

barry Boone is unanimously specified as vice chairman, Maureen McGovern came chosen assistant, and after that Brogna been recently branded as treasurer.

all of the reconstituted block have their first finding for normal establishment votes arrange for Dec. 19, Five days right after the contract over curious law firms in order to post proposals on a structured feasibility study, sense my blackboard can have to be able to merit a legal contract.

Four newbies your day Crestwood their school panel accept the promise of health care office at some stage in thurs reorganization talking. right between lead are actually Stacy Haddix, Kimberly Spath, Lauren McCurdy and as a consequence randy Brogna. 17 public speaking.

while prompt wednesday authorities chairman paul Belusko should become aware of if will probably be at center arena this booked careers class a better or at site of the event thus more people beautiful vietnamese women may easily give priority to.

Belusko proclaimed she will be polling an additional four authorities musicians in email’s over the past weekend on recommendation mayor choose George light brown undertaken especially during tuesday night time seeing replace the to and time production for the.

looking to you can keep them respond back to me made by the following thursday, Belusko considered that Friday.

maybe authorities decides to transfer an appointment it provides a week in order to place and with seating rather than a unique fourth area chambers.

was regarded as thinking that it is recently doing open talking long before the performance visit someplace (home buyers and thus local authority or council) may questionthings just to associated with us transfer to the author’s your job session. which unfortunately whatever i thinking about, Belusko claims.

you will most likely plumbing service in sunday night-time show results demonstrations that when local authority or council could not vote on awaiting the law. comments together with inquires are allowed even though council monday date the general public get togethers. timetabled start.

village owner david Gazenski suggested it authorities call on which direction to start.

over council if that they move this approach to a different store, Gazenski alleged.

nearly as Belusko may reaching out to authorities, so too will white because of main receiving area for the mans professional recommendation.

E. A. Sisneros

I get distracted super easily, but I started writing down my most intrusive thoughts. 1, it helped me remember them, and 2, it helped me focus on the task at hand. From intriguing concepts to funny-sounding words. Some are quotes for funny dialog, some are character quirks. Now I have a list of really bad, really creative ideas that deserve to be told and deserve to die. Simultaneously.

For example, “Becoming so good at keyboard shortcuts that they do precognitive Googling” “A vegan who is transformed into a dog” “A math curriculum that hires voice actors from pop culture to voice the lessons ” “A character (probably lonely) makes a friend online and goes in for a fist bump with the monitor, only to break it.”

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Submit Comment

Join over 450,000 readers who are saying YES to practice. You’ll also get a free copy of our eBook 14 Prompts :

Popular Resources

Best Resources for Writers Book Writing Tips & Guides Creativity & Inspiration Tips Writing Prompts Grammar & Vocab Resources Best Book Writing Software ProWritingAid Review Writing Teacher Resources Publisher Rocket Review Scrivener Review Gifts for Writers

Books By Our Writers

Surviving Death

You've got it! Just us where to send your guide.

Enter your email to get our free 10-step guide to becoming a writer.

You've got it! Just us where to send your book.

Enter your first name and email to get our free book, 14 Prompts.

Additional Resources

  • A List of Writing Contests in 2022 | Exciting Prizes!
  • Em Dash vs. En Dash vs. Hyphen: When to Use Which
  • Book Proofreading 101: The Beginner’s Guide
  • Screenplay Editing: Importance, Cost, & Self-Editing Tips
  • Screenplay Proofreading: Importance, Process, & Cost
  • Script Proofreading: Rates, Process, & Proofreading Tips
  • Manuscript Proofreading | Definition, Process & Standard Rates
  • 14 Punctuation Marks: Examples & Free Guide on How to Use
  • Tips to Write Better if English Is Your Second Language
  • Novel Proofreading | Definition, Significance & Standard Rates
  • The Top 10 Literary Devices: Definitions & Examples
  • Top 101 Bone-Chilling Horror Writing Prompts
  • Top 10 Must-Try Writing Prompt Generators in 2024

100+ Creative Writing Prompts for Masterful Storytelling

  • Best 101 Greatest Fictional Characters of All Time
  • Top 10 eBook Creator Tools in 2024: Free & Paid
  • 50 Timeless and Unforgettable Book Covers of All Time
  • What Is Flash Fiction? Definition, Examples & Types
  • Discover the Best Book Review Sites of 2024: Top 10 Picks
  • 80 Enchanting Christmas Writing Prompts for Your Next Story

Your Guide to the Best eBook Readers in 2024

  • Top 10 Book Review Clubs of 2024 to Share Literary Insights
  • 2024’s Top 10 Self-Help Books for Better Living
  • Writing Contests 2023: Cash Prizes, Free Entries, & More!
  • Top 10 Book Writing Apps of 2024: Free & Paid!
  • Top 10 Book Marketing Services of 2024: Features and Costs
  • 10 Best Book Publishing Companies in 2024
  • What Is a Book Teaser and How to Write It: Tips and Examples
  • Audiobook vs. EBook vs. Paperback in 2024: (Pros & Cons)
  • Top 10 Book Writing Software, Websites, and Tools in 2024
  • How to Get a Literary Agent in 2024: The Complete Guide
  • An Easy Guide to the Best Fonts & Font Sizes for Your Book
  • Top 10 Book Promotion Services for 2024’s Authors
  • Alpha Readers: Where to Find Them and Alpha vs. Beta Readers
  • Author Branding 101: How to Build a Powerful Author Brand
  • How to Write a Book Report | Steps, Examples & Free Template
  • A Guide on How to Write a Book Synopsis: Steps and Examples
  • How to Write a Book Review (Meaning, Tips & Examples)
  • Book Title Generators: Top 10 Book Name Generators of 2024
  • 50 Top Literary Agents in the USA for Authors in 2024
  • Building an Author Website: The Ultimate Guide with Examples
  • Top 10 Book Printing Services for Authors in 2024
  • 10 Best Free Online Grammar Checkers: Features and Ratings
  • How to Write a Poem: Step-by-Step Guide to Writing Poetry
  • What Is a Poem? Poetry Definition, Elements, & Examples
  • 2024’s 10 Best Paraphrasing Tools for All (Free & Paid)
  • Top 10 AI Detector Tools in 2024 (Free & Paid)
  • Top 10 Book Editing Software in 2024 (Free & Paid)
  • What Is an Adverb? Definition, Types, Differences & Examples
  • What Are Large Language Models and How They Work: Explained!
  • What Is an Adjective? Definition, Usage & Examples
  • Top 10 Hardcover Book Printing Services [2024 Update]
  • 15 Types of Poems Everyone Should Know About
  • 2024’s Top 10 Setting Generators to Create Unique Settings
  • Different Types of Characters in Stories That Steal the Show
  • Top 10 Screenplay & Scriptwriting Software (Free & Paid)
  • 10 Best AI Text Generators of 2024: Pros, Cons, and Prices
  • Top 10 Must-Try Character Name Generators in 2024
  • How to Track Changes in Google Docs: A 7-Step Guide
  • 10 Best AI Text Summarizers in 2024 (Free & Paid)
  • 2024’s 10 Best Punctuation Checkers for Error-Free Text
  • Top 10 AI Humanizers of 2024 [Free & Paid Tools]
  • Top 10 AI Rewriters for Perfect Text in 2024 (Free & Paid)
  • 10 Best Plot Generators for Powerful Storytelling in 2024
  • 11 Best Story Structures for Writers (+ Examples!)
  • Writing Contests 2024: Cash Prizes & Free Entries!

Pre-Publishing Steps

  • Book Cover Design: An Introduction
  • What is a Book Copyright Page?
  • 8 Pre-Publishing Steps to Self-Publish Your Book
  • 7 Essential Elements of a Book Cover Design
  • How to Copyright Your Book in the US, UK, & India
  • How to Format a Book in 2024: 7 Tips for Print & EBooks
  • Beta Readers: Why You Should Know About Them in 2024
  • How to Publish a Book in 2024: A Beginners’ Guide
  • ISBN Guide 2024: What Is an ISBN and How to Get an ISBN

Self Publishing Guide

  • How to Hire a Book Editor in 5 Practical Steps
  • Self-Publishing Options for Writers
  • How to Promote Your Book Using a Goodreads Author Page
  • What Makes Typesetting a Pre-Publishing Essential for Every Author?
  • 4 Online Publishing Platforms To Boost Your Readership
  • How to Find the Perfect Book Editor for Your Manuscript
  • Typesetting: An Introduction
  • Quick Guide to Novel Editing (with a Self-Editing Checklist)
  • Quick Guide to Book Editing [Complete Process & Standard Rates]
  • 10 Best Self-Publishing Companies of 2024: Price & Royalties
  • Manuscript Editing in 2024: Elevating Your Writing for Success
  • Self-Publishing vs. Traditional Publishing: 2024 Guide
  • How to Publish a Book on Amazon: 8 Easy Steps [2024 Update]
  • 10 Best Book Cover Design Services of 2024: Price & Ratings
  • A Beginner’s Guide to Self-Publishing a Book in 2024
  • Learn How Much Does It Cost to Self-Publish a Book in 2024
  • What are Print-on-Demand Books? Cost and Process in 2024
  • What Are the Standard Book Sizes for Publishing Your Book?
  • Top 10 EBook Conversion Services for 2024’s Authors
  • How to Copyright a Book in 2024 (Costs + Free Template)
  • How to Market Your Book on Amazon to Maximize Sales in 2024

Traditional Publishing

  • How to start your own online publishing company?
  • 8 Tips To Write Appealing Query Letters
  • How to Write a Query Letter (Examples + Free Template)

Writing Tips

  • How to Create Depth in Characters
  • Starting Your Book With a Bang: Ways to Catch Readers’ Attention
  • How to Write a Powerful Plot in 12 Steps
  • Research for Fiction Writers: A Complete Guide
  • Short stories: Do’s and don’ts
  • How to Write Dialogue: 7 Rules, 5 Tips & 65 Examples
  • How to Write a Novel in Past Tense? 3 Steps & Examples
  • What Are Foil and Stock Characters? Easy Examples from Harry Potter
  • How To Write Better Letters In Your Novel
  • On Being Tense About Tense: What Verb Tense To Write Your Novel In
  • How To Create A Stellar Plot Outline
  • How to Punctuate Dialogue in Fiction
  • On Being Tense about Tense: Present Tense Narratives in Novels
  • The Essential Guide to Worldbuilding [from Book Editors]
  • What Is Point of View: 1st, 2nd & 3rd POV with Examples
  • How to Create Powerful Conflict in Your Story | Useful Examples
  • How to Write a Book: A Step-by-Step Guide
  • How to Write a Short Story: 6 Steps & Examples
  • How To Craft a Murder Mystery Story
  • How to Write a Novel: 8 Steps to Help You Start Writing
  • What Is a Stock Character? 150 Examples from 5 Genres
  • How to Write a Children’s Book: An Easy Step-by-Step Guide
  • Joseph Campbell’s Hero’s Journey: Worksheet & Examples
  • Novel Outline: A Proven Blueprint [+ Free Template!]
  • Character Development: 7-Step Guide for Writers
  • Foil Character: Definition, History, & Examples
  • What Is NaNoWriMo? Top 7 Tips to Ace the Writing Marathon
  • What Is the Setting of a Story? Meaning + 7 Expert Tips
  • Theme of a Story | Meaning, Common Themes & Examples
  • 5 Elements of a Short Story & 6 Stages of a Plot
  • What Is a Blurb? Meaning, Examples & 10 Expert Tips
  • What Is Show, Don’t Tell? (Meaning, Examples & 6 Tips)
  • How to Write a Book Summary: Example, Tips, & Bonus Section
  • How to Write a Book Description (Examples + Free Template)
  • 10 Best Free AI Resume Builders to Create the Perfect CV
  • A Complete Guide on How to Use ChatGPT to Write a Resume
  • 10 Best AI Writer Tools Every Writer Should Know About
  • 15 Best ATS-Friendly ChatGPT Prompts for Resumes in 2024
  • How to Write a Book Title (15 Expert Tips + Examples)
  • The 10 Best AI Story Generators: Features, Usage & Benefits
  • 100 Novel and Book Ideas to Start Your Book Writing Journey
  • Exploring Writing Styles: Meaning, Types, and Examples
  • Mastering Professional Email Writing: Steps, Tips & Examples
  • How to Write a Screenplay: Expert Tips, Steps, and Examples
  • Business Proposal Guide: How to Write, Examples and Template
  • Different Types of Resumes: Explained with Tips and Examples
  • How to Create a Memorable Protagonist (7 Expert Tips)
  • How to Write an Antagonist (Examples & 7 Expert Tips)

Writing for the Web: 7 Expert Tips for Web Content Writing

  • What are the Parts of a Sentence? An Easy-to-Learn Guide
  • How to Avoid AI Detection in 2024 (6 Proven Techniques!)
  • How to Avoid Plagiarism in 2024 (10 Effective Strategies!)
  • 10 Best Spell Checkers of 2024: Features, Accuracy & Ranking
  • What Is Climax Of A Story & How To Craft A Gripping Climax
  • What Is a Subject of a Sentence? Meaning, Examples & Types
  • Object of a Sentence: Your Comprehensive Guide
  • First-person Point of View: What Is It and Examples
  • Second-person Point of View: What Is It and Examples

Still have questions? Leave a comment

Add Comment

creative writing ideas topics

Checklist: Dissertation Proposal

Enter your email id to get the downloadable right in your inbox!

creative writing ideas topics

Examples: Edited Papers

Need editing and proofreading services.

  • Tags: Fiction Writing , Novel , Novel Writing , Short Story Poetry

Do you wish to write but don’t know how to start? If you have writer’s block, this article is for you! This article includes 100 plus creative writing prompts across all genres to kickstart your writing journey. 

From horror writing prompts to fantasy writing prompts, we’ve covered everything for you! Before we see examples of writing prompts, let’s quickly understand the meaning of writing prompts. 

Ready to take your writing to the next level? Learn more

What are writing prompts? 

A writing prompt is a simple topic idea to inspire the writer to get the first words on the page. It can be a picture, a line from a poem, or an imaginary scenario. Writing prompts can be abstract, realistic, evocative, thought-provoking, insightful, or descriptive. 

Dive in to see exciting writing prompts from various genres! These also include many creative writing prompts for adults.

1. Horror writing prompts 

1) A man inside the coffin breaks the coffin and starts walking. 

2) A demonic spirit has entered your friend’s body and she is moving closer to attack you. 

3) You wake up in an empty house and see a ghost. 

4) A doll you brought for a friend suddenly starts speaking. 

5)  You suddenly see a man who was supposed to have died in 1900. 

6) A vampire you saw in your dream kidnaps you in real life. 

7) You are awakened by drops of blood falling on your face. 

8) You have an accident and suddenly see a centaur who has a half-human, half-animal face. 

9)  You are walking in the forest and witness a shocking ritual where people are drinking blood. 

10) You wear an old ring you found after which something terrible keeps happening to you. 

11) An excavator finds an old mummy while digging which tries to grab him. 

Now let’s see some of the best creative writing prompts for adults and kids for journaling, 

2. Journal writing prompts 

1) Describe a childhood memory that always makes you smile. 

2) Write about a dream you had that you can never forget. 

3) Recount your biggest challenge and what you learned from it. 

4) Name three people who inspire you the most and why. 

5) Pen a letter to yourself and describe your accomplishments and future goals. 

6) Explain what would you like to change if you had a chance to go back in time. 

7) Narrate an incident where the kindness of strangers moved you. 

8) Express in detail some of your best memories with school friends. 

9) List five activities you love to do and your efforts to perform those activities. 

10) Tell in detail about your favorite travel destination. 

11) Describe your most challenging times and how you overcame them. 

If you wish to explore writing about mysteries, the following are some creative prompts about mysteries. 

3. Mystery writing prompts 

1) Ten scientists die on the same day and a Scotland Yard detective is assigned to find out why. 

2) A top bureaucrat starts getting anonymous threatening notes and decides to investigate. 

3) A retired police officer decides to play detective and solve the case of his granddaughter’s death. 

4) A private investigator is assigned to find the truth about a journalist who went missing.

5)  A meteor strikes a village after which people start falling sick. 

6) An archaeologist finds a document about a cursed treasure and decides to find out the truth. 

7) A young boy hears screams from a tower and sees torch lights flashing in the dark. 

8) A factory burns and an investigator finds out whether the fire was caused naturally or intentionally. 

9) A girl inquires to understand why her dog was shot and discovers a shocking truth. 

10) A son promises his mother to uncover the reason behind his sister’s suicide. 

11) A police inspector has to solve the murder case of an orphan who was earlier arrested in a drug case. 

4. Romance writing prompts 

1) A girl falls in love with a video gamer she met in college.  

2) A 70-year-old realizes that he has fallen in love with a woman he met at an old age home. 

3) A man meets his childhood crush after years and tries to woo her once more. 

4)  Two best friends decide to experiment and set up a double date. 

5) Give a love story to a person whom everyone assumes to be a villain. 

6) Pen a romance story with the words affair, flirting, infatuation, and fling. 

7) A man who has a phobia of getting married meets a girl with a similar fear. 

8) Write a love story of two people staying in two different countries. 

9) Two employees from rival companies fall in love. 

10) A paramedic falls in love with a spy whose life she saves. She later realizes that he will soon embark on a dangerous mission. 

11) Write a love story of a librarian and a time-traveler. 

Instead of writing about romance, you might be interested in the science fiction genre. Given below are some creative prompts related to science fiction. 

5. Science fiction writing prompts 

1) Two scientists invent a machine that can control and manipulate weather. 

2) An astronaut flies to the planet Jupiter and discovers alien life. 

3) An archaeologist finds an old book about a magical time travel ritual and uses that ritual to go back in time. 

4) A young boy finds a hidden library of science books and is trapped inside the library. 

5) A science teacher decides to take revenge against the government by performing a dangerous science experiment. 

6) A jailed scientist uses science to escape and prove his innocence. 

7) A science geek creates an AI program that can hack the data of government and private organizations without leaving a trace. 

8) A spaceship is pulled into another universe by an unknown force and aliens are planning to invade the Earth. 

9) A scientist designs a robot that looks and talks exactly like the country’s President and plans to kill the real President. 

10) To reduce population, a crazy scientist makes a deadly plan to release a virus into the air. 

11) A chemistry professor creates a dangerous solution that can massively change the genes of animals and humans. 

If science fiction is not your cup of tea and you love fantasy, here are some creative writing prompts about fantasy. 

6. Fantasy writing prompts 

1) An archaeologist enters a magical world of dragons and is unable to return to Earth. 

2) A tribal girl develops fairy wings and she is later assigned the task to save the fairy race from extinction. 

3) A man discovers a magical dream shop where dreams are sold to change reality. 

4) A musician visits a hidden world and finds a magical flute that can hypnotize people and make them stand still. 

5) A boy finds a small dwarf in his garden who shows him the train to travel to parallel universes. 

6) A woman finds the feather of a rare bird, using which she enters the world of lost secrets. 

7) A college student falls in love with a cursed mermaid and travels to her land to free her from the curse. 

8) An excavator opens a door and arrives in the land where destinies are written. 

9) A man unintentionally awakens a sleeping devil who creates a new world and new citizens to destroy the earth. 

10) A girl realizes that she has the power to control stars and is pulled into a world of demons and monsters. 

11) A fairy falls in love with a human and must convince Fairyland to accept her love and let her go. 

You might also have an interest in writing poems about various topics. For poetry lovers, the following are some of the best creative writing prompts. 

7. Poetry writing prompts 

1) Write a poem about your favorite fairy tale as a child. 

2) Describe an unforgettable memory with your first crush in a poem. 

3) Pen a poem about a stray dog who became your best friend. 

4) Craft a poem about the beauty of witnessing fireflies in the dark. 

5) Explore the sadness of losing touch with school classmates in a poem. 

6) Narrate an incident about a memorable dance you saw in a poem. 

7) Write a poem that has the quote “Tough times never last but tough people do”. 

8) Compose a poem on a special gift you received and its importance. 

9) Pen a poem about your favorite cartoon character. 

10) Write a poem about how a person who passed away inspired you in life. 

11) Compose a poem about a magical land where you wish to go. 

If you love to write on light-hearted, funny topics, given below are some of the best writing prompts for you! 

8. Funny writing prompts 

1) Jot down a hilarious conversation between a madman and a witty parrot. 

2) Create a funny story about how a person is forced to communicate with a stranger who doesn’t understand English. 

3) Write a funny dialogue about a person who says something wrong at the most inappropriate time. 

4) Describe a prank where you created a savory dish that looked like chocolate and made your friend taste it. 

5) Write a humorous conversation between a standup comedian and an angry spectator. 

6) Pen a story about a disaster that takes place because a scientist forgot to add a valuable component to an experiment. 

7) Craft a funny story about a brother who takes revenge on his sister for revealing his girlfriend to his parents. 

8) Imagine a funny situation where a friend tries to copy everything you do to irritate you and write about it. 

9) Write about a funny incident when you received a parcel you hadn’t ordered.

10) Narrate an incident about a funny costume party where everyone was dressed up as different animals.  

11) Write about a comic incident where an aunt asked you to take responsibility for her son while she was away. However, the son ends up in prison. 

9. Short story writing prompts 

1) Write a short story about a ship that mysteriously sank in the ocean. 

2) Pen a short story about a girl who has synesthesia and sees colors around people. 

3) Craft a short story about a mountaineer who decides to climb Mount Everest. 

4) Develop a short story about a road trip gone wrong. 

5) Write a short story about what happens when a government official finds out about a dangerous secret. 

6) Create a short story about a detective who disguises himself and is discovered. 

7) Pen a short story about a businessman with a big scar and a twisted lip. 

8) Write a short story about how a boy discovers a magical wishing feather after which his every wish comes true. 

9) Develop a short story about a blind man who takes revenge for an insult. 

10) Craft a short story about an eagle who saves a jungle from being destroyed. 

11) Write a short story about the last living princess who makes a mark on the world. 

If you wish to explore historical fiction instead, here are some of the best writing prompts for you! 

10. Historical fiction writing prompts 

1) A librarian discovers a shocking secret about the Second World War which can change the future of the USA and Russia. 

2) Write a story about a mirror that talks about an ancient era and reveals a secret about that era. 

3) Craft a tale about a poet who wrote about the Red Indians. 

4) A political leader begins a movement to get recognition for a lesser-known historical figure, resulting in controversy. 

5) An excavator finds a valuable artifact from the Mayan civilization that could affect the world’s future. 

6) A girl realizes that she is the last living descendant of a French queen and must protect a family secret at all costs. 

7) A bureaucrat finds a diary about a man who suffered during the Great Depression and resolves to make amends. 

8) A boy has dreams about the First World War and decides to solve the mystery of his dreams. 

9) A tribe decides to get back a valuable historical artifact stolen from them. 

10) A historian finds out about the most dangerous escape of an American soldier. 

11) A girl discovers a magical portal that transports her to the 18th century.  

Now that you’ve understood what are writing prompts, you can use one prompt daily and start writing. The next step after writing is editing. As providers of editing and proofreading services , we’d love to help you edit and perfect your writing! 

We realize how writing and editing can be challenging tasks. Here are some resources to enhance your writing: 

  • The dynamics of Christian book editing and proofreading
  • What Is Developmental Editing? A Self-Editing Checklist
  • How to Write a Novel in Past Tense? 3 Steps & Examples

Found this article helpful?

Leave a Comment: Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published.

Your vs. You’re: When to Use Your and You’re

Your organization needs a technical editor: here’s why.

Subscribe to our Newsletter

Get carefully curated resources about writing, editing, and publishing in the comfort of your inbox.

How to Copyright Your Book?

If you’ve thought about copyrighting your book, you’re on the right path.

© 2024 All rights reserved

  • Terms of service
  • Privacy policy
  • Partner with us
  • Annual report
  • Website content
  • Marketing material
  • Job Applicant
  • Cover letter
  • Resource Center
  • Case studies

PrepScholar

Choose Your Test

  • Search Blogs By Category
  • College Admissions
  • AP and IB Exams
  • GPA and Coursework

105 Creative Writing Prompts to Try Out

General Education

feature_creativewritingprompts

The most common advice out there for being a writer is, "if you want to write, write." While this is true (and good advice), it's not always that easy, particularly if you're not writing regularly.

Whether you're looking for help getting started on your next project, or just want to spend 20 minutes being creative, writing prompts are great ways to rev up your imagination. Read on for our list of over 100 creative writing prompts!

feature image credit: r. nial bradshaw /Flickr

10 Short Writing Prompts

If you're looking for a quick boost to get yourself going, these 10 short writing prompts will do the trick.

#1 : Write a scene starting with a regular family ritual that goes awry.

#2 : Describe exactly what you see/smell/hear/etc, right now. Include objects, people, and anything else in your immediate environment.

#3 : Suggest eight possible ways to get a ping pong ball out of a vertical pipe.

#4 : A shoe falls out of the sky. Justify why.

#5 : If your brain were a tangible, physical place, what would it be like?

#6 : Begin your writing with the phrase, "The stage was set."

#7 : You have been asked to write a history of "The Summer of [this past year]." Your publisher wants a table of contents. What events will you submit?

#8 : Write a sympathetic story from the point of view of the "bad guy." (Think fractured fairy tales like Wicked or The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs! , although the story doesn't have to be a fairy tale.)

#9 : Look at everyday objects in a new way and write about the stories one of these objects contains.

#10 : One person meets a stranger on a mode of transportation. Write the story that ensues.

body_modeoftransportation

11 Writing Prompts for Kids

Any of these prompts can be used by writers of any age, but we chose the following 11 prompts as ones that would be particularly fun for kids to write about. (Most of them I used myself as a young writer, so I can vouch for their working!)

#1 : Include something falling in your writing.

#2 : Write a short poem (or story) with the title, "We don't know when it will be fixed."

#3 : Write from the perspective of someone of a different gender than you.

#4 : Write a dumb internet quiz.

#5 : Finish this thought: "A perfect day in my imagination begins like this:"

#6 : Write a character's inner monologue (what they are thinking as they go about their day).

#7 : Think of a character. Write a paragraph each about:

  • An important childhood experience that character had.
  • The character's living situation.
  • Two hobbies or things the character likes to do.
  • The room where the character sleeps.
  • An ambition of the character.
  • Two physical characteristics of the character.
  • What happens when a second person and this character meet.
  • Two important defining personal traits of this character.

#8 : Start a story with a quote from a song.

#9 : Begin a story with, "It was the summer of ______ when ______"

#10 : Pretend everyday objects have no names. Think about what you would name them based on what they do, what you can use them for, and what they look like.

#11 : Start a story with the phrases "My grandparents are/were," "My parents are/were," or "My mother/father/parent is/was."

body_mygrandfatherwasprompt

15 Cool Writing Prompts

#1 : List five issues that you're passionate about. Write about them from the opposite point of view (or from the perspective of a character with the opposite point of view).

#2 : Walk around and write down a phrase you hear (or read). Make a story out of it.

#3 : Write using no adjectives or adverbs.

#4 : Write a character's inner dialogue between different aspects of a character's self (rather than an inner monologue).

#5 : Write a true story from your past that involves light or darkness in some way.

#6 : "Saying goodbye awakens us to the true nature of things." Write something in which someone has to say goodbye and has a realization.

#7 : Begin by writing the end of the story.

#8 : Write a recipe for an intangible thing.

#9 : Write a horror story about an ordinary situation (e.g., buying groceries, going to the bank, listening to music).

#10 : Write a story from within a bubble.

#11 : Write down 2-3 short character descriptions and then write the characters in conversation with one another.

#12 : Write a story in second person.

#13 : Write a story that keeps contradicting itself.

#14 : Write about a character with at least three big problems.

#15 : Write something that takes place on a Friday, the 13th (of any month).

body_somethingfridaythe13thprompt

15 Funny Writing Prompts

#1 : Write a story which starts with someone eating a pickle and potato sandwich.

#2 : Write a short script where the plot has to do with evil dolls trying to take over something.

#3 : Write about writers' block.

#4 : List five election issues that would be ridiculous to includes as part of your election platform (e.g. outlawing mechanical pencils and clicky pens, mandating every person over the age of 30 must own an emergency last rites kit). Choose one of the ridiculous issues and write a speech in favor of it.

#5 : Write a children's story that is insanely inappropriate but can't use graphic language, curses, or violence.

#6 : List five careers. Write about someone with one of those careers who wants to quit it.

#7 : Write down a list of murder methods. Choose one at random from the list to use in a story.

#8 : Write a romance story in which the hero must have a last name corresponding with a physical characteristic (e.g. Jacques Hairyback or Flora Dimple).

#9 : Come up with 10 different ways to:

  • order a pizza
  • congratulate someone on a job well done
  • return to the store something that's broken

#10 : Search for "random Renaissance painting" (or any other inspirational image search text you can think of) on any online internet image search engine. Picking one image, write half a page each of:

  • Statements about this image (e.g. "I meant bring me the BREAD of John the Baptist").
  • Questions about this image (e.g. "How many of those cherubs look like their necks are broken?").
  • Explanations of this image (e.g. "The painter ran out of blue paint halfway through and had to improvise for the color of the sky").
  • Commands said by people in this image or about this image (e.g. "Stop telling me to smile!" or "Bring me some gasoline!").

#11 : Write starting with a word that sounds like "chute" (e.g. "chute," "shoot," "shooed").

#12 : Write about a character named X "The [article of clothing]" Y (e.g. Julie "The Yellow Darted Skirt" Whyte) or simply referred to by their clothing (e.g. "the man in the brown suit" or "the woman in black").

#13 : Write down a paragraph each describing two wildly different settings. Write a story involving both settings.

#14 : Think of a fictional holiday based around some natural event (e.g. the Earth being at its farthest point from the sun, in memory of a volcanic eruption, that time a cloud looked like a rabbit riding a bicycle). Write about how this holiday is celebrated.

#15 : Write a "Just-So" type story about a fictional creature (e.g. "how the dragon got its firebreath" or "how the mudkip got its cheek gills").

body_justsostory

54 Other Writing Prompt Ideas

#1 : Borrow a character from some other form of media (or create your own). Write from that character's perspective.

#2 : Write for and against a non-consequential controversy (e.g., salt vs. pepper, Mac vs. PC, best kind of door).

#3 : Choose an ancestor or a person from the past to write about or to.

#4 : Write a pirate story with a twist.

#5 : Have a character talk about another character and their feelings about that other character.

#6 : Pick a season and think about an event in your life that occurred in that season. Write a creative nonfiction piece about that event and that season.

#7 : Think of something very complicated and long. Write a page about it using short sentences.

#8 : Write a story as a dream.

#9 : Describe around a food without ever directly naming it.

#10 : Write a monologue (one character, talking to the audience/reader) (*not* an inner monologue).

#11 : Begin a story with the phrase, "It only took five seconds to..."

#12 : List five strong emotions. Choosing one, write about a character experiencing that emotion, but only use the character's actions to convey how they are feeling (no outright statements).

#13 : Write a chapter of the memoir of your life.

#14 : Look through the (physical) things you're currently carrying with you or wearing. Write about the memories or emotions tied with each of them.

#15 : Go be in nature. Write drawing your story from your surroundings (both physical, social, and mental/emotional).

body_writinginnature

#16 : Write from the perspective of a bubble (or bubble-like creature).

#17 : A person is jogging along an asphalt road. Write a story.

#18 : Title your story (or poem, or play, etc) "Anti-_____". Fill in the blank and write the story.

#19 : Write something that must include an animal, a mineral, and a vegetable.

#20 : Begin your writing with the phrase, "6 weeks later..."

#21 : List 5-10 office jobs. Pick one of them and describe a person working in that job as if you were a commentator on an Olympic sporting event.

#22 : Practice your poetic imagery: overwrite a description of a character's breakfast routine.

#23 : Write about a character (or group of characters) trying to convince another character to try something they're scared of.

#24 : Keep an eye out in your environment for examples of greengrocer's apostrophes and rogue quotation marks. Pick an example and write about what the misplaced punctuation implies (e.g., we have the "best" meat or we have the best "meat" ).

#25 : Fill in the blank with the first word that comes to mind: "_______ Riot!" Write a newspaper-style article describing the events that that took place.

#26 : Write from the point of view of your most-loved possession. What does it think of you?

#27 : Think of five common sayings (e.g., "An apple a day keeps the doctor away"). Write a horror story whose plot is one of those common sayings.

#28 : Write a scene in which two characters are finally hashing out a long-standing misunderstanding or disagreement.

#29 : You start receiving text messages from an unknown number. Tell the story of what happens next.

#30 : Write one character bragging to another about the story behind their new tattoo.

#31 : Superheroes save the world...but they also leave a lot of destruction in their wake. Write about a normal person in a superhero's world.

#32 : Sometimes, family is who we are related to; sometimes, family is a group of people we gather around ourselves. Write a story about (some of) a character's found family and relatives meeting for the first time.

#33 : Write a story that begins in the middle of the plot's action ( en media res ).

#34 : Everyone says you can never have too much of a good thing. Write a story where that isn't true.

#35 : What do ghosts do when they're not creating mischief? Write about the secret lives of ghosts.

body_secretlivesofghosts

#36 : Every year, you dread the last week of April. Write a story about why.

#37 : Write a story about what it would be like to have an animal sidekick in real life.

#38 : Heists don't just have to be black-clad thieves stealing into vaults to steal rare art or money. Write about a group of people (adults or children) who commit a heist for something of seemingly little monetary value.

#39 : "Life is like a chooseable-path adventure, except you don't get to see what would have happened if you chose differently." Think of a choice you've made and write about a world where you made a different choice.

#40 : Write a story about a secret room.

#41 : You find a message in a bottle with very specific directions. Write a story about the adventure you embark upon.

#42 : "You'll always be okay as long as you know where your _______ is." Fill in the blank and write a story (either fictional or from your life) illustrating this statement.

#43 : Forcing people into prolonged proximity can change and deepen relationships. Write about characters on a road trip together.

#44 : In music, sonata form includes three main parts: exposition, development, and recapitulation. Write a short story that follows this format.

#45 : Begin writing with a character saying, "I'm afraid this simply can't wait."

#46 : Write a story with a happy ending (either happily-ever-after or happy-for-now).

#47 : Write about a character before and after a tragedy in that character's life.

#48 : Choose an object or concept you encounter in everyday life (e.g. tables, the feeling of hot or cold, oxygen) and write an infomercial about it.

#49 : "Life is a series of quests, whether important or mundane." Write about a quest you've gone on (or would like to go on, or will have to go on).

#50 : List 10 different ways to learn. Choose one (or more) and write a story where a character learns something using that one (or more) method.

#51 : You've been called to the principal's office for bad behavior. You know what you did. Explain and justify yourself.

#52 : A character discovers their sibling owns a cursed object. Write about what happens next.

#53 : Write a character description by writing a list of items that would be on a scavenger hunt about them.

#54 : The slogan for a product or service you're advertising is, "Kid-tested, _____." Fill in the blank and write the copy for a radio or podcast advertisement for your product.

body_kidtestedwritingprompt

How to Use Creative Writing Prompts

There's no wrong way to use a creative writing prompt (unless it's to harass and hurt someone)—the point of them is to get you writing and your imagination flowing.

To help you get the most out of these writing prompts, however, we've come up with the six tips below. Try them out!

#1: DON'T Limit Yourself to Prose

Unless you're writing for a particular assignment, there's no reason everything you write in response to a writing prompt has to be prose fiction . Instead of writing your response to a prompt as a story, try writing a poem, nonfiction essay, play, screenplay, or some other format entirely.

#2: DON'T Edit as You Write

The purposes of writing prompts is to get you writing, typos and weird grammar and all. Editing comes later, once you've finished writing and have some space from it to come back to what you wrote.

It's OK to fix things that will make it difficult to read what you've written (e.g., a weird autocorrect that changes the meaning of a sentence), but don't worry too much about typos or perfect grammar when you're writing; those are easy enough to fix in edits . You also can always insert asterisks or a short note as you're writing to remind yourself to go back to fix something (for instance, if as you're writing it seems like you want to move around the order of your paragraphs or insert something earlier).

#3: DO Interpret the Prompt Broadly

The point of using a writing prompt is not to write something that best exemplifies the prompt, but something that sparks your own creativity. Again, unless you're writing in response to an assignment with specific directions, feel free to interpret writing prompts as broadly or as narrowly as you want.

For instance, if your prompt is to write a story that begins with "The stage was set," you could write about anything from someone preparing to put a plan into motion to a literal theatre stage constructed out of pieces of old sets (or something else entirely).

If you're using a writing prompt, it doesn't have to be the first sentence of your story or poem, either; you can also use the prompt as a goal to work towards in your writing.

#4: DO Try Switching Up Your Writing Methods

If it's a possibility for you, see if you write differently in different media. Do you write the same kind of stories by hand as you would typing at a computer? What about if you dictate a story and then transcribe it? Or text it to a friend? Varying the method you use to write can affect the stories you're able to tell.

For example, you may find that it's easier for you to tell stories about your life to a voice recorder than to try to write out a personal essay. Or maybe you have trouble writing poetry, but can easily text yourself or a friend a poem. You might even find you like a writing method you've not tried before better than what you've been doing!

body_switchwritingmethods

#5: DO Mix and Match Prompt Ideas

If you need more inspiration, feel free to combine multiple prompts (but don't overwhelm yourself with too much to write about).

You can also try switching genres from what might be suggested in the prompt. For instance, try writing a prompt that seems funny in a serious and sad way, or finding the humor in something that otherwise seems humorless. The categories we've organized the prompts into are by no means limiters on what you're allowed to write about.

#6: DO Try to Write Regularly

The more regularly you write, the easier it will be to write (with or without writing prompts).

For some people, this means writing daily; for others, it means setting aside time to write each weekend or each month. Set yourself an achievable goal (write 2x a week, write 1000 words a month) and stick to it. You can always start small and then ramp your wordcount or frequency up.

If you do better when you have something outside yourself prompting to write, you may also want to try something like morning pages , which encourages you to write at least 750 words every day, in any format (story, diary entry, social media postings, etc).

body_planouttimetowrite

What's Next?

Thinking about attending college or grad school for creative writing? Our articles on whether or not you should major in creative writing and the best creative writing programs are there for you! Plus, if you're a high schooler, you should check out these top writing contests .

Creative writing doesn't necessarily have to be fiction. Check out these three examples of narrative writing and our tips for how to write your own narrative stories and essays .

Just as writing prompts can help give form to amorphous creative energy, using specific writing structures or devices can be great starting points for your next story. Read through our discussion of the top 20 poetic devices to know and see if you can work at least one new one into your next writing session.

Still looking for more writing ideas? Try repurposing our 100+ easy drawing ideas for characters, settings, or plot points in your writing.

Trending Now

How to Get Into Harvard and the Ivy League

How to Get a Perfect 4.0 GPA

How to Write an Amazing College Essay

What Exactly Are Colleges Looking For?

ACT vs. SAT: Which Test Should You Take?

When should you take the SAT or ACT?

Get Your Free

PrepScholar

Find Your Target SAT Score

Free Complete Official SAT Practice Tests

How to Get a Perfect SAT Score, by an Expert Full Scorer

Score 800 on SAT Math

Score 800 on SAT Reading and Writing

How to Improve Your Low SAT Score

Score 600 on SAT Math

Score 600 on SAT Reading and Writing

Find Your Target ACT Score

Complete Official Free ACT Practice Tests

How to Get a Perfect ACT Score, by a 36 Full Scorer

Get a 36 on ACT English

Get a 36 on ACT Math

Get a 36 on ACT Reading

Get a 36 on ACT Science

How to Improve Your Low ACT Score

Get a 24 on ACT English

Get a 24 on ACT Math

Get a 24 on ACT Reading

Get a 24 on ACT Science

Stay Informed

Get the latest articles and test prep tips!

Follow us on Facebook (icon)

Laura graduated magna cum laude from Wellesley College with a BA in Music and Psychology, and earned a Master's degree in Composition from the Longy School of Music of Bard College. She scored 99 percentile scores on the SAT and GRE and loves advising students on how to excel in high school.

Ask a Question Below

Have any questions about this article or other topics? Ask below and we'll reply!

Related Topics

  • Reddit Writing Prompts
  • Romance Writing Prompts
  • Flash Fiction Story Prompts
  • Dialogue and Screenplay Writing Prompts
  • Poetry Writing Prompts
  • Tumblr Writing Prompts
  • Creative Writing Prompts for Kids
  • Creative Writing Prompts for Adults
  • Fantasy Writing Prompts
  • Horror Writing Prompts
  • How to Write a Novel
  • How to Write a Thriller Novel
  • How to Write a Fantasy Novel
  • How to Start a Novel
  • How Many Chapters in a Novel?
  • Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a Novel
  • Novel Ideas
  • How to Plan a Novel
  • How to Outline a Novel
  • How to Write a Romance Novel
  • Novel Structure
  • How to Write a Mystery Novel
  • Novel vs Book
  • Round Character
  • Flat Character
  • How to Create a Character Profile
  • Types of Writers
  • How to Become a Writer
  • Author Overview
  • Document Manager Overview
  • Screenplay Writer Overview
  • Technical Writer Career Path
  • Technical Writer Interview Questions
  • Technical Writer Salary
  • Google Technical Writer Interview Questions
  • How to Become a Technical Writer
  • UX Writer Career Path
  • Google UX Writer
  • UX Writer vs Copywriter
  • UX Writer Resume Examples
  • UX Writer Interview Questions
  • UX Writer Skills
  • How to Become a UX Writer
  • UX Writer Salary
  • Google UX Writer Overview
  • Google UX Writer Interview Questions
  • Technical Writing Certifications
  • Grant Writing Certifications
  • UX Writing Certifications
  • Proposal Writing Certifications
  • Content Design Certifications
  • Knowledge Management Certifications
  • Medical Writing Certifications
  • Grant Writing Classes
  • Business Writing Courses
  • Technical Writing Courses
  • Content Design Overview
  • Documentation Overview
  • User Documentation
  • Process Documentation
  • Technical Documentation
  • Software Documentation
  • Knowledge Base Documentation
  • Product Documentation
  • Process Documentation Overview
  • Process Documentation Templates
  • Product Documentation Overview
  • Software Documentation Overview
  • Technical Documentation Overview
  • User Documentation Overview
  • Knowledge Management Overview
  • Knowledge Base Overview
  • Publishing on Amazon
  • Amazon Authoring Page
  • Self-Publishing on Amazon
  • How to Publish
  • How to Publish Your Own Book
  • Document Management Software Overview
  • Engineering Document Management Software
  • Healthcare Document Management Software
  • Financial Services Document Management Software
  • Technical Documentation Software
  • Knowledge Management Tools
  • Knowledge Management Software
  • HR Document Management Software
  • Enterprise Document Management Software
  • Knowledge Base Software
  • Process Documentation Software
  • Documentation Software
  • Internal Knowledge Base Software
  • Grammarly Premium Free Trial
  • Grammarly for Word
  • Scrivener Templates
  • Scrivener Review
  • How to Use Scrivener
  • Ulysses vs Scrivener
  • Character Development Templates
  • Screenplay Format Templates
  • Book Writing Templates
  • API Writing Overview
  • How to Write a Book
  • Writing a Book for the First Time
  • How to Write an Autobiography
  • How Long Does it Take to Write a Book?
  • Do You Underline Book Titles?
  • Snowflake Method
  • Book Title Generator
  • How to Write Nonfiction Book
  • How to Write a Children's Book
  • How to Write a Memoir
  • Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a Book
  • How to Write a Book Title
  • How to Write a Book Introduction
  • How to Write a Dedication in a Book
  • How to Write a Book Synopsis
  • Business Writing Examples
  • Business Writing Skills
  • Types of Business Writing
  • Dialogue Writing Overview
  • Grant Writing Overview
  • Medical Writing Overview
  • Nanowrimo Overview
  • How to Write 50,000 Words for Nanowrimo
  • Camp Nanowrimo
  • Nanowrimo YWP
  • Nanowrimo Mistakes to Avoid
  • Proposal Writing Overview
  • Screenplay Overview
  • How to Write a Screenplay
  • Screenplay vs Script
  • How to Structure a Screenplay
  • How to Write a Screenplay Outline
  • How to Format a Screenplay
  • How to Write a Fight Scene
  • How to Write Action Scenes
  • How to Write a Monologue
  • Short Story Writing Overview
  • Technical Writing Overview
  • UX Writing Overview
  • Book Writing Software
  • Novel Writing Software
  • Screenwriting Software
  • ProWriting Aid
  • Writing Tools
  • Literature and Latte
  • Hemingway App
  • Final Draft
  • Writing Apps
  • Grammarly Premium
  • Wattpad Inbox
  • Microsoft OneNote
  • Google Keep App
  • Technical Writing Services
  • Business Writing Services
  • Content Writing Services
  • Grant Writing Services
  • SOP Writing Services
  • Script Writing Services
  • Proposal Writing Services
  • Hire a Blog Writer
  • Hire a Freelance Writer
  • Hire a Proposal Writer
  • Hire a Memoir Writer
  • Hire a Speech Writer
  • Hire a Business Plan Writer
  • Hire a Script Writer
  • Hire a Legal Writer
  • Hire a Grant Writer
  • Hire a Technical Writer
  • Hire a Book Writer
  • Hire a Ghost Writer

Home » Blog » 140 Creative Writing Prompts For Adults

140 Creative Writing Prompts For Adults

banner-image

Generate Full-Length AI Novel Instantly

Learning how to become a better writer includes knowing how to come up with a solid idea. With so many elements to consider when starting your novel, the plot itself may begin to slip away from you. Use these creative writing prompts for adults to get you started on the right path to a successful story and suffer from writer’s block for the last time.

This list of writing prompts for adults can be taken and used in any way you want. Details can be changed, and characters can be added or removed.

They are meant to be a fun way to get your creativity flowing and your next story developing. For even more writing ideas, check out the  writing prompt generator . Here, you will find 500+ prompts of all kinds that will give you some ideas.  Take control of that blank page and create something awesome. 

Dramatic Writing Prompts for Adults

A romantic writing prompt

Nothing beats some good old-fashioned drama once in a while. You can turn these writing prompts into a dramatic love story , an exciting short story, or morph them into a different genre. How you use them is up to you.

For a novel that is specifically romance, we have created an exclusive list of exciting and genre-bending romance writing prompts . Try choosing a writing prompt from the below list:

  • A young boy discovers that he is the only adopted child among his four siblings. Feeling confused and betrayed, he runs away to find his birth parents. After two months on the road, he runs out of money and still hasn’t found them. Does he go home? Or does he continue his quest?
  • Two couples are feuding and haven’t spoken in years. It is discovered that their two children have become best friends at school, and they want a playdate. Will this increase tension between them or lead to reconciliation?
  • Identical twins are attending the same college. They switch places and take each other’s classes depending on their strengths and weaknesses. They’ve gotten away with it for two years until their observant professor of a father is transferred to the school they attend.
  • Two childhood best friends stopped talking after a huge fight in high school. Five years later, they find themselves sitting next to each other on the same 16-hour international flight.
  • Write about a passionate romance that crosses religions.
  • He’s only been in office for a year. He is already being tempted by a corrupt group of criminals who want him to sabotage a series of public safety projects in exchange for funding his entire reelection campaign.
  • Your main character is being offered a promotion from the high school principal to the district director. Sadly, she knows her replacement will cut funding for all of the art programs. How does she manage the situation?
  • A high-profile general learns that the opposing army will surrender if he hands himself over. Will he prioritize his own safety or sacrifice himself for his country?
  • Write about a successful businesswoman who has built herself from the ground up. The business is suddenly threatened by the son of a rich local contractor who started a similar business out of boredom.
  • A successful lawyer knows that his client is guilty of the murder for which he has been charged. He is a good liar and could easily win the case. The case is getting constant media coverage and would guarantee him making a partner at his firm.
  • Your main character has lived a sheltered, isolated life. When their delusional and overbearing father dies. They are thrown into the real world and unsure of how to cope.
  • The doorbell rings, and your character answers it – finding nothing but an envelope with nothing on it. They open it and follow the instructions to attend a secret underground event. Afterward, they become a part of a huge resistance that the rest of the world knows nothing about.
  • After a family member’s funeral, you arrive home to a stranger on your doorstep, claiming the person is not really dead. The funeral was open-casket.
  • It is your character’s wedding day. While the vows are being said, someone from the crowd yells, “I object!”
  • A huge storm has stopped traffic. Your character is stuck in the car with someone for an unknown amount of time. The person chooses this moment to confess their undying love. The feeling is not mutual.
  • Your character finds an old, disposable camera on the ground. Feeling, they get the photos developed. What they see tells an unsettling story.
  • Two old friends are reminiscing on a prominent and life-changing event. They have very different memories from that day.
  • Your main character is a world-traveling nature photographer. She stumbles upon a small tribe of indigenous people who have found the cure for all cancer in a small local plant.
  • A young man has been homeschooled all his life and is ready to start college. An attack on his small hometown has him being drafted into the army. He is away from home for the first time ever and is terrified. However, he becomes a key strategist due to his unique perspective and undiscovered scientific talents.
  • A middle-aged man is tired of his career in a corporate office. He takes all his vacation and sick days at once for an excursion in the Appalachian Mountains. Everything is fine until a blizzard hits.
  • A shy and reserved web designer thinks she has found the man of her dreams online. She is actually being catfished by a competing company that wants to get information from her.
  • A man and woman work for two neighboring rival fast food companies. They always take their lunch breaks together on the bench right in the middle of the two.
  • An ongoing murder investigation takes an unexpected turn when it is discovered that a prolific group of corrupt police officers is behind the whole thing.
  • A television star is renowned and respected for his “method” acting. He only interviews or appears on TV in character. But this is because he doesn’t have a personality outside of his three most famous characters.
  • A professional gymnast is under fire for her supposed use of performance-enhancing steroids. She leaked the story herself to draw attention away from the fact that she is the leader of a high-profile drug ring.
  • An older couple on the brink of retirement keeps their life savings in the pages of the books in their home. They are just about to start looking for a retirement home to live in when a fire destroys their house and their cash.

Tips for Writing Drama

Free Person Writing on Notebook Stock Photo

  • Drama is usually character-driven , so make use of both your round and flat characters .
  • Introduce the conflict right away and keep it prominent. A drama will thrive off conflict.
  • Don’t let the resolution come easily.
  • Don’t be afraid to kill characters and write difficult situations.
  • Always show, don’t tell.

Supernatural Writing Prompts for Adults

creative writing ideas topics

Supernatural stories are popular. The entire world is in love with vampires. Write something interesting and unique enough that you might be writing their next favorite book. Use these supernatural story starters for your basic premise. Some writing prompts related to the genre of supernatural creatures are as follows:

  • On her 16th birthday, your main character miraculously survives a deadly car crash without a scratch. Later that week, she watches as a small scratch heals and disappears right before her eyes. Where did this new power come from, and what will she do with it?
  • There is an elite society of high education that wants to test a new drug. They give it to highly gifted students, and it allows them to stay awake for 48 hours and record everything they see, hear, and feel in that time. Unfortunately, some unexpected side effects set in two weeks later.
  • A middle-aged man is the only one in his famous and high-profile family without a superpower. The local police rely on his super-powered family to help them catch and fight crime. However, the powers are failing them during a specific investigation. Your protagonist’s “normal” perspective might just save the day.
  • Your main character suffers a terrible concussion. After recovering, they cannot control the vivid nightmares about the accident. However, they can also take images from their mind and project them into the real world. Doctors think they are crazy and keep them heavily sedated.
  • Write about a world where technology has given animals the ability to speak.

Tips for Writing Supernatural Stories

  • Setting the story in the real world will make your supernatural species more believable.
  • Create the origins of your species and supernatural characters.
  • Create the physical limitations for your species and beings.
  • Avoid the cliches of the genre.
  • Understand your reasons for using supernatural creatures. You shouldn’t be writing them in simply due to their popularity.

Thriller Writing Prompts for Adults

Thriller writing prompts

Thrillers can come in many forms and can be incorporated into many genres. Regardless of the details, though, they are always meant to excite. Suspense and tension are crucial – it’s always more fun when you don’t know. Writing a good thriller requires a strong set of writing skills. These prompts will give you a good base. If you think you need to improve, try some writing exercises.

If your thriller can get hearts racing, you’ve done a good job. Some writing prompts related to the thriller genre are as follows:

  • The body of your main character’s best friend is dumped on their doorstep. They make it their mission to find out who is responsible, even if it means crossing some lines and breaking some laws.
  • A murderer is on the loose in your character’s hometown. For 10 weeks, they have killed one person on the same day at the same time. Your main character is the next victim. They are abducted exactly three days before the planned kill time.
  • Strange things start happening around town. Your main character decides to find out for themselves what is going on. They do learn the truth, but now they aren’t allowed to leave.
  • Your character suffers from a condition that causes seemingly random blackouts for varying amounts of time. The only thing they ever remember before these episodes is a yellow car with a dent on the side. One day, that car is parked outside their house. This time, there is no blackout.
  • Your main character and their friends take an unsolicited mini-vacation to an off-limits island off the coast of their seaside town. Shortly after arrival, they discover the island’s inhabitants and the reason why it was off-limits.
  • Your protagonist is in intensive therapy due to extremely vivid nightmares detailing someone’s gruesome death. Many have said it’s just their twisted imagination, but this new therapist seems to think it’s much more than that.
  • You are legally allowed to kill someone one time in your life. You must fill out a series of paperwork, and your intended victim will be given notice of your plan.
  • A brilliant serial killer has been getting away with murder for decades. His only weakness is his acute inability to tell a lie. He is finally caught and tried for all the murders. Write about how he still manages to walk free with no charges laid.
  • Your character is a host at a restaurant. A couple comes in and says they have a reservation. You look it up in the system and find that the reservation was booked 40 years ago.

Tips for Writing a Thriller

  • Have a story that suits a thriller. This usually involves the protagonist falling victim to someone else and being caught in impossible situations.
  • Different points of view can add a lot of value to a thriller. It gives several perspectives and allows the reader to get into the heads of many characters.
  • Put action as close to the beginning as possible.
  • Don’t be afraid to make your characters miserable.

Thriller Book Writing Template

Squibler has a book writing template that was created specifically for writing a thriller:

thriller novel template

It will walk you through each section of a typical thriller. It includes the basics of a thriller structure without stifling your creativity. The guidelines are easy to understand but loose enough that you can insert the details of your story with ease.

Horror Writing Prompts for Adults

Horror writing prompt

The horror genre has always had a cult-like following. Several fictional killers have become household names. Some horror fans will spend their whole lives chasing the adrenaline that comes with a good scare.

If you’re learning how to become a better writer to scare your readers, these writing prompts will get you started. A book writing template may be helpful in creating a true horror, as setting the stage properly is crucial. Some horror writing prompts that you can write a story are as follows:

  • It’s Halloween night, and a group of rowdy teenagers break into an infamously haunted house in their town. They soon discover it is not the ghosts they have to fear, but the madman who lives upstairs is poisoning them with hallucinogenic gas.
  • There is a disease outbreak at a school. It appears at first to be chicken pox, but it is actually a virus that is causing violent outbreaks in the children who begin to terrorize the town.
  • Your main character attends a meditation retreat. It turns out to be a recruiting process for an extremist cult that convinces members to commit dangerous acts of terror. Your protagonist is the only one in the room who is immune.
  • So overcome by his nightmares, your main character attacks anyone who comes near him. He cannot distinguish between loved ones and the monsters in his head.
  • A young man has to dive 300 feet into the ocean to rescue his girlfriend caught in a broken submarine. He must cross through a genetically modified shark breeding ground.
  • An old time capsule is about to be opened and the whole town is present for the celebration. When opened, the only thing found inside is a detached human hand with a threatening note in the grasp. The note is written in your character’s handwriting but dated 50 years before they were even born.

Master horror writer Stephen King reveals some of his thought processes: “So where do the ideas—the salable ideas—come from? They come from my nightmares. Not the night-time variety, as a rule, but the ones from everyday life that hide just beyond the doorway that separates the conscious from the unconscious.”

Horror doesn’t always have to be fantastical and dreamy in nature. Sometimes horror exists in the real world, within people.

Tips for Writing Horror

  • Don’t be afraid to give that gruesome, bloody description.
  • Aim to create extreme emotions.
  • Make sure the readers care about your characters. This will make their horrible situations more impactful.
  • Consider what scares you the most. Keep this in mind when writing.
  • Set the stakes high.
  • Some comic relief or brief periods of peace are okay – necessary even. It can help build suspense.

Crime and Mystery Writing Prompts for Adults

Mystery writing prompt

Stories of crime and mystery have been told for ages. There are some classic crime dramas that will never get old. Many non-fiction books have been written on this topic as well. 

Creating a proper mystery takes time and much planning. When done correctly, though, it makes for a most memorable story. Some crime and mystery writing prompts are as follows:

  • Your main character discovers another woman’s clothes tucked in the back of her boyfriend’s closet. She plans an elaborate fishing trip to get him far away for a weekend so she can teach him a lesson.
  • A new serial killer is on the loose, killing one person every other day within 500 feet of a museum. There must be a connection and a reason, but how will they catch him when he keeps destroying the cameras and escaping?
  • A young officer is three years sober and committed to getting back on track. That is until he is called to the scene of a high-profile drug bust and is in charge of collecting evidence. Can he control himself around so many drugs?
  • Abandoned cars start randomly appearing throughout the city. No license plates and nothing inside. That is until one is found to contain several dismembered human limbs.
  • Your character has been receiving nasty, lifelike drawings in the mail. They ignore them at first, thinking it is some kids being silly. Until the drawings start coming to life. Since they have the drawings, they know what is going to happen next and in what order.
  • Your main character and her husband awake one night in the early hours of the morning, both recalling a horrific dream from the night before. They soon learn the dream to be true as they discover a fresh, painful brand in between each of their shoulder blades.
  • Your character never wakes up feeling rested, no matter how long they sleep. Medication doesn’t help. They decide to film themselves one night. The next morning, they watch as they get out of bed around midnight, smirk at the camera, and wave before disappearing out the door for hours.
  • Your protagonist is a member of a small religious group. When a precious artifact goes missing, the head elder’s daughter is blamed for it. Your character knows she couldn’t be responsible because the two of them were romantically involved at the time of the theft. Such activities are strictly forbidden, and the daughter would rather go down for the theft than admit to breaking that law.
  • There is a serial killer going after the children of rich and notable families in the area. Your main character is the child of one such family and is terrified every waking moment. Tired of living in fear, they decide to figure out who the killer is and stop them  
  • Your character gets a DNA test just for fun. After getting the results and doing some more research, they discovered that members of their ancestry from all over the world were once all gathered in the same place. The reason is unknown.
  • Your character receives a strange voicemail from an unknown number. The voicemail ends up changing the course of their entire life.
  • Your character is in an accident and loses the memory of the last year of their life. There are so many things that don’t make sense. They must retrace their steps to find answers.
  • The entire town has started sleepwalking together every night.  
  • Your character has a short but friendly encounter with a stranger in an elevator. The next day, they are all over TV as the victim of a brutal murder.
  • Your character is redecorating and takes down a painting. They notice something strange engraved on the back of the frame.
  • Your character goes to their usual coffee shop and orders “the usual.” The Barista smiles, nods, and slides something entirely different across the counter. She has never made a mistake before.
  • Your character opens a random book at the library when the cover page falls out. It says, “if you are reading this, you have been chosen.”
  • When looking through some old family photos – going back generations – your character notices a cat in almost every photo. The very same colorful spotted cat with a single docked ear that is sitting on their lap.
  • When paying for their groceries, your main character mentions to the clerk that there is a mess in aisle 11. The clerk is confused and explains that there is no aisle 11.

Tips for Writing Crime and Mystery

  • This is a genre where a book writing template can come in handy. The plots are often so complex it can be overwhelming to keep it all straight.
  • Draw inspiration from real-life crimes. This will make your story believable.
  • Also, draw your inspiration from real-life people and give them realistic motives behind their crimes. Crime and mystery are rarely set in a fantasy world, so being realistic is important.
  • Know how the mystery is solved before you start writing.
  • Include a few cliffhangers – usually at the end of a chapter.

Science Fiction Writing Prompts for Adults

Free Woman Wearing Space Suit Stock Photo

Science fiction is similar to fantasy in that you can make up a lot of stuff, which is a fun way to write.

This is a versatile genre that can be molded into anything you want.

Sometimes, it is rooted in truth with elements of real scientific and technological advances. Other times, there are many assumptions made about the future of science, and lots of make-believe takes place. Some of the best sci-fi writing prompts and a few ideas to explore in this genre are as follows:

  • A spaceship that can surpass the speed of light is allowing a few humans on board to escape our solar system and its dying sun. How does the world decide who gets to survive?
  • A shy, introverted tech guy develops a virus that can control human desires, impulses, and choices.
  • A pet store becomes overrun with kittens and sells them off at a low price. However, these cats are actually an alien hybrid that can body jump. It begins, causing the owners of these cats to commit suicide within 24 hours of adoption.
  • A live TV broadcast from the White House experiences some technical difficulties. They end up broadcasting a top-secret meeting about a pending alien invasion.
  • Science has developed a brain scanning software that can read thoughts. Before they can decide what to do with it, someone has hacked the system and stolen it.
  • Your character wakes up on a spaceship with no memory.
  • The world has developed a genetic system that engineers everyone for a specific job in the community. Your character hates what they were created to do. This never happens.
  • The world has finally reached a state of all-encompassing peace thanks to a technical system that keeps things regulated. Your character is in charge of keeping the system running. When they discover exactly how the system is kept running, they consider abandoning their post and never turning back.
  • Your character accidentally traps themselves in an alternate universe that hasn’t discovered electricity or technology yet.

Tips for Writing Science Fiction

  • Make your story complex, but don’t rush it. Let your audience process information before adding more.
  • Keep the language simple and easy to understand even if the world isn’t. The majority of your readers will not be scientists or tech experts.
  • Be consistent in terms of the universe. Physical laws, social classes, etc. Know your own world.

Dystopian Writing Prompts for Adults

The 20 best dystopian novels of all time

Dystopian stories are growing in popularity. The genre itself is growing and evolving all the time as people figure out what works and what entertains.

Dystopian is a fun genre to read and experience, but writing it can be just as enjoyable. Having fun while learning how to become a better writer is of utmost importance.

Be careful you’re not writing Dystopia just because it sells well. Make sure you have a real story to tell and that it’s one you believe in. Some dystopian writing prompts are as follows:

  • A newly married couple becomes pregnant with twins. Due to growing overpopulation, they are told they must make a choice when the babies are born. Only one will live. Rather than submit to this, they plan their escape across the border.
  • An amateur teen scientist accidentally discovers an impending alien attack set to destroy Earth within a month. He becomes the unwilling leader of the evacuation and defense coalition.
  • A hacker discovers that the new iPhone can be remotely detonated. Many corrupt political leaders are assassinated in this way on the same day. The world breaks into chaos.
  • World War III has come and gone. Governments are a thing of the past, and money is useless. Survival is the objective. Your main character also has a medical condition to keep under control.
  • A horrible outbreak of disease devastated the wildlife population 100 years ago. A scientist has recently created a virus that will strengthen the immune systems of the remaining animals. It works too well, and the animals are starting to overtake the human population.
  • After mental illness devastates a generation, scientists create an airborne substance that balances the levels of all people on the earth. Your character is one of the few who is immune.
  • Rampant wildfires are taking over the surface of the earth. Your character is part of a group that is trying to find a rumored ocean-deep settlement. The settlement doesn’t really exist.
  • Nature extremists have taken over the government. Any and all activities that are harmful to the land or plants are forbidden and outlawed.
  • Natural farming is a thing of the past. All food is manufactured artificially and distributed. There is no flavor, and it’s the same thing every day. Your character takes a stress-relieving trip to the mountains. Here, they find the remnants of some real plants with a few berries on them.

Tips for Writing Dystopian Fiction

  • Know what the message of the story is. What is the main character trying to achieve?
  • A dystopian society is usually one that has taken the current problems of the world and projected them into the future.
  • Dystopian realities are never good ones – make sure you have enough doom, gloom, and darkness for your readers to understand the state of the world.

Historical Writing Prompts for Adults

Free Stonehenge Under Nimbostratus Clouds Stock Photo

Historical fiction can be whimsical and charming. It can be dark and spooky. It can be funny and ridiculous. Stories of history span many genres.

Historical fiction can be a combination of educational and entertaining. It tests a writer’s research skills as well as knowledge. The better depiction you can create of your desired time period, the more effective your story will be.

Learning to research is crucial to know how to become a better writer. Some historical fiction writing prompts are as follows:

  • From a first-person perspective, write about the showdown between a criminal and a lion in the Roman Colosseum.
  • Abraham Lincoln is famous for his top hat. Where did the top hat come from? Who was the president without it? Write a story about the infamous top hat and its life.
  • The Berlin Wall has crashed to the ground, and it is love at first sight for one lucky couple – whose parents aren’t so impressed.
  • Your character is a talented composer whose direct competition is Beethoven.
  • Write about a dinner party where three famous historical figures are in attendance.
  • Your best friend has invented the very first time-travel machine.
  • Write about a well-known war, but give it a different outcome.
  • Write a happy ending for Dracula.
  • Your character’s husband of ten years has just confessed that he has traveled through time from the fourteenth century. He decided to stay because he fell in love with her.
  • Write about the thoughts of someone who is secretly watching Michelangelo paint the Sistine Chapel.
  • Your character is the only one who knows who really killed JFK. It wasn’t Oswald.
  • Your character is working under William Shakespeare as his apprentice.
  • Write about a pair of detectives who solve their cases by traveling back and forth in time.
  • Write about the experience of someone who has just learned of the Titanic’s sinking. They had a loved one on board.
  • Choose a major historical event. Write from the perspective of a witness.
  • Your character wants to travel across the land. No forms of transportation have been invented yet.
  • Write about someone who worked at one of the first printing presses during the printing revolution of the 15th century.

Tips for Writing Historical Fiction

  • Do your research! Inaccuracies or incorrect facts about the time you are writing will break trust of your readers and decrease your credibility.
  • Choose a specific time period and location. “Early twentieth century” is too broad.
  • In addition to setting and facts, characters need to match the time period. This includes dress, behavior, and language.
  • Small details will matter.
  • Balance the historical facts with the drama and fictional elements.

Humorous Creative Writing Prompts for Adults

Free Two Yellow Emoji on Yellow Case Stock Photo

Another genre that is especially fun to write, as well as read, is comedy. Nothing beats throwing your head back in full laughter.

The goal here is to make people laugh as much as possible while still balancing a good story and believable characters. Check out the best creative writing prompts with a funny twist:

  • Substitute teachers are tired of not being taken seriously. They come together and form a secret society with plans to revolt.
  • An Elvis impersonator is so good that many start to believe Elvis has actually come back to life. Soon, he has been recruited to lead a superstitious Elvis-loving cult.
  • Three friends are out on the town for a night. Write about the most ridiculous series of events you can think of.
  • Life has gotten tough, and your character is considering moving back in with their parents. Before they are able to make a decision, their parents show up at their door asking if they can move in.
  • Your character wakes up one day, and everything they say rhymes. They can’t control it.
  • The climate is changing, and your main character’s city gets snow for the first time in their entire life. She and her friends are recruited for clean up.
  • Your main character has never had a real job before. They are starting a job at the biggest, busiest store in town on the busiest day of the year.
  • Your character is set up on a blind date with their sworn enemy.
  • Every morning, you have a package delivered that contains an item you end up needing that day.
  • Struggling with writer’s block, an author decides to sit at a local train station for information. They get some good material.
  • Your characters are holding a high-stakes rock-paper-scissors tournament.
  • Your main character gets backstage at a concert. What happens back there is much more interesting than the show.
  • Your protagonist decides to buy an old school bus and travel across the country. Being single without any close friends, they post an ad asking if anyone wants to join. They end up having their pick of travel partners.
  • Write a story about a low-profile, insignificant, but long-unsolved crime that is finally cracked.
  • Your character is a serial killer who kills anyone who hitchhikes along the mountain they live on. One day, they pick up a hitchhiker who kills whoever picks him up.
  • The world’s greatest detective finally meets his match: A criminal so stupid and so careless that the detective can’t ever predict what he is going to do next.

Tips for Writing Comedy

  • Test the humor on others. You might find something hilarious, but if no one else is going to laugh, it will be useless to include.
  • Observe comedy. Your ability to write it will hinge on your experience with it. Watch, read, listen, and speak comedy.
  • Have fun with it. Comedy is fun. If you’re not laughing at yourself along the way, you’ll never get through to the end.

Fantasy Writing Prompts for Adults

Free Close-up Photo of Glowing Blue Butterflies Stock Photo

Fantasy is one of the most popular genres of the time. It’s growing every day because of its creative and immersive nature. People love to preoccupy themselves with something with magical powers.

Being transported into another world for a little while – that’s what fantasy can do. Some of the best creative writing prompts for fantasy fiction are as follows:

  • In a world of advanced technological and magical advancements, one group keeps their practice of ancient spells a secret. One day, they are discovered, and it leads to a fight. What is more powerful – old magic or new technology?
  • A large, protected national forest is secretly home to werewolves. One summer, there is an especially bad flea epidemic, and the werewolves are greatly affected. The fleas from the werewolves infect the town’s water supply and start turning everyone into werewolves. The only ones not affected are children under 13.
  • The world is overrun with vampires, and humans are dying out. Different races and factions of vampires are beginning to go to war over the limited supply of human blood.
  • Your character finds a strange-looking egg in the forest. Thinking it will make a great decoration, they take it home. What hatches from that egg surpasses their wildest imagination.
  • A city has spent centuries living in peace with the water-dwellers who reside in their lakes. Suddenly, the water dwellers declare war, and no one knows why.
  • Your character has always been able to alter their appearance. They hide unattractive features. Suddenly, their powers stop working, and their true appearance is revealed.
  • Your main character has a fascination with untouched societies – such as hidden tribes in the Amazon. She sets out to study them as a living. One day, she accidentally allows herself to be seen by one of the members. What this person does is beyond what your character ever thought to be real.
  • The earth itself is dying, and all life on the planet is dying with it.
  • Some people in the world have magic, others don’t. No one knows why. Your main character has magic, but his best friend doesn’t. The friend is exceptionally jealous and is growing more and more desperate to make the magic his.

Tips for Writing Fantasy

  • Focus on being unique
  • Don’t neglect worldbuilding. Inconsistencies will be obvious to readers. This is where a book writing software like Squibler can come in handy. It helps you stay organized and efficient.
  • Create unique names.
  • Don’t be afraid to make the journey long and the outcome unexpected.

Fantasy Novel Writing Template

Fantasy is one of the most complicated genres due to the necessity of building a brand-new world. Squibler’s fantasy writing template will help you through this daunting process:

fantasy novel writing template

This template offers guidelines and suggestions for building your world as well as structuring and creating your storyline. It’s helpful but loose enough to allow your creativity to keep flowing.

Dialogue-Inspired Writing Prompts

Free Pink Background With Speech Bubble Stock Photo

Sometimes, all it takes is a small exchange or a witty one-liner to get your brain working. Take these words and start something new. Or, insert them into an existing project and see what happens. Some of the best dialogue-based creative writing prompts are as follows:

  • “As she stepped onto the train, I fought every urge to jump on after her.”
  • “He was expensive. Please be more considerate of my money the next time I hire an assassin to kill you.”
  • “You say that like it was a struggle.”
  • “I’m your conscience. That is literally my one job.”
  • “Well, I wish you didn’t love me. I guess no one is getting what they want today.”
  • “I guess it didn’t take.”
  • “I was bored so I blew up my house.”
  • “I taught you how to pick locks, and THAT is how you’re choosing to use the skill?”
  • “They thought I would forget everything. I remember even more than when they started.”
  • “Yes. But I don’t care.”
  • “I killed my mother. Are you really questioning what I can do to you right now?”

Tips That Every Writer Should Remember

Free Brown Wooden Desk Stock Photo

If you want to create compelling stories with fiction writing prompts, remember the following things:

Create a Proper Writing Schedule

Free Organizing Calendar and Vase on a Table Stock Photo

To succeed in the demanding task of following fiction writing prompts, treat yourself and your writing with importance. Establish and consistently adhere to a designated writing schedule. Maintaining a regular writing routine prevents the project from fading into obscurity.

It’s challenging to retain the novel’s details in your mind for quick and efficient writing. Allowing substantial intervals between writing sessions and working haphazardly only increases the difficulty and likelihood of abandoning the endeavor.

Don’t Expect Your Words to Be Perfect

Free Brown Scrabble Boards With Letters Stock Photo

Many writers start working on fiction writing prompts with excitement, but upon rereading, their work may not meet their expectations, leading to deleting it entirely. Avoid being overly critical of your writing.

Excessive self-editing can halt your progress and prevent you from writing beyond the initial pages. Instead, focus on writing and avoid scrutinizing it until you have completed the story. Rewriting is essential for crafting great novels, and most writers would not share their first drafts with others.

Relax a Little

Free Woman Holding Gray Ceramic Mug Stock Photo

Are you unable to follow fiction writing prompts because the thought of it overwhelms you? Start by loosening up with some free writing. Dedicate five or ten minutes to jotting down whatever pops into your mind, and don’t pause or edit.

This exercise helps remove the mental block between your thoughts and your writing. It will help you to prepare for the actual writing process, akin to stretching before a workout.

Explore Your Ideas

Free Clear Light Bulb Stock Photo

When you first come across your fiction writing prompts, document all your notions and ideas regarding your desired novel. Jot down even the vaguest thoughts and concepts that come to mind. Identify any compelling questions you want to delve into.

Take notes on any particular setting, historical period, or topic that captivates you. Through this free-form writing, ideas will gradually emerge and take form.

Switch Between Plotting and Writing

Free Typewriter Stock Photo

As you begin working on your fiction writing prompts, engage in a simultaneous process of developing the plot and crafting the actual text. Planning the plot provides structure and direction for your writing.

However, immersing yourself in the writing allows you to experience the story on a deeper level, discovering new insights and nuances. This interactive approach enhances both aspects of the creative process.

Think About Your Characters

Free Photo Of Person Using Computer Stock Photo

Delve into the depths of your characters beyond their actions and names while working on writing prompts. Consider creating character profiles and mood boards with images that resonate with them. Test their limits in challenging situations to witness their reactions.

Engage in dialogue to develop their unique voices. Remember, characters in a novel should not be mere pawns in your narrative. They require motivation to drive their actions and make them more relatable and compelling.

Focus on the Structure

Free Top view of anonymous woman in casual wear sitting on floor with laptop and smartphone and creating plan on notebook while resting during break in modern living room Stock Photo

As you progress with your fiction writing prompts, consider the overall structure of your novel. Determine the timeline of your story. Will it cover a short period or an entire lifetime? Divide it into chapters or sections based on significant events or time periods.

Choose a narrative perspective to follow the writing prompts. Will the events be narrated by a first-person character reflecting on the past or unfold in real time? These structural decisions will provide a framework for your story and ensure it flows smoothly.

Set Some Targets

Free Person Holding White Stylus Stock Photo

Some people prefer setting goals and deadlines while following fiction writing prompts. Consider setting writing goals that you can reasonably achieve, such as writing 3,000 words weekly or 1,000 words daily.

Alternatively, you could aim for broader deadlines, like completing a third of your first draft by the end of the year. Choose targets that feel manageable and adjust them as needed to ensure success.

Try to Use the Active Voice

Free Flat Lay Photography of Unfold Book Beside Macbook Stock Photo

To captivate readers with your fiction writing prompts, aim for page-turners that hook them from the first page to the last. Employ the active voice predominantly in your stories. Construct sentences using the clear and concise order of nouns (subject) performing an action (verb) and affecting an object. Passive voice can be useful occasionally but use it sparingly in your fictional works.

How to Get Rid of Writer’s Block

Free Woman Reading a Book Beside the Window Stock Photo

You might often encounter writer’s block while working on creative writing prompts. Here are some ways to get rid of writer’s block:

Most writers find their passion for writing through reading. To enhance your writing skills and get creative outputs for your writing prompts, revisit your literary roots by reading extensively. Focus on contemporary and acclaimed works within your specific genre or area of interest. By immersing yourself in the latest literature, you’ll gain inspiration, identify gaps in the market, and determine how you can make a unique contribution to the field.

Take Breaks

To avoid burnout while working on writing prompts, take frequent breaks. Step away for a quick coffee break when feeling stuck. If needed, take longer breaks, like an afternoon drive or even a full day off. These breaks allow your mind to relax, giving you a refreshed perspective when you return to writing.

Avoid Comparison

Even if you are skilled in writing, there will always be individuals with greater proficiency or who have been writing for longer. Each person’s writing journey and experiences are different. Is it fair to contrast your writing abilities with someone who may have gained more experience?

Instead of comparing yourself to others, focus on improving your own writing. Embrace the uniqueness of your voice. By honing your skills and sharing your perspective, you will attract an audience that resonates with your writing style.

Try Different Writing Methods

Changing your writing tools can refresh your approach and overcome writer’s block. If you typically write on a computer, try writing by hand. If you have a typewriter, use it for a unique sensory experience.

If you’re still stuck, walk outside and talk your ideas into a recorder or your phone. The physical activity and verbalization can spark new creativity.

Discover Your Peak Creativity Hours

Identify if your mind is most alert for creative writing in the morning or evening. Adjust your schedule of working on writing prompts accordingly.

Explore different locations to find where you write best, whether it’s a bustling coffee shop, a serene beach, or a secluded bedroom. Choose the environment that fosters your creativity.

Eliminate distractions by turning off Wi-Fi, removing your phone from your workspace, and requesting quiet time from others. This allows you to focus and tap into your creative flow.

Write Your Next Masterpiece With These Creative Writing Prompts for Adults

Whether you have a book writing templat e all filled out or you are starting from scratch, these writing prompts will get your imagination going and make your writing time more productive.

Beat the writer’s block, get your groove back, or just be inspired.  Figure out how to love writing again. Whatever you’re looking for, hopefully, these ideas have helped form the story you need to tell.

Frequently Asked Questions

Let’s take a look at some questions and answers:

Is following fiction writing prompts difficult?

You might come across creative ideas when you get fiction writing prompts. But transforming them into captivating narratives is a complex endeavor. This is because crafting a story that resonates with readers requires more than simply assembling words and sentences until a book is completed.

What is the hardest genre of fiction writing prompts?

When it comes to following fiction writing prompts, writers often struggle with the horror genre. It necessitates a t horough comprehension of human nature and its psychological intricacies and the capacity to evoke primal fears and anxieties within readers. Moreover, following creative writing prompts for the horror genre requires proficiency in crafting believable, immersive characters and settings that resonate with the audience.

What are common literary techniques to include in creative writing prompts?

Fiction writers should choose the right literary techniques to enhance their writing. Some common types of literary devices to use include alliteration, personification, and symbolism.

What is the genre of realistic fiction for creative writing prompts?

Realism in fiction depicts events that could potentially happen in real life. The setting is believable, fostering a sense of familiarity. Characters in realistic stories behave in ways that align with human experiences, making them relatable and believable.

Can I profit from writing fiction?

Typically, authors receive a book advance and a percentage of royalties (usually between 5% and 15%) from the sale of traditionally published works. However, the actual earnings can vary significantly.

Josh Fechter

Related Posts

Top 140 Tumblr Writing Prompts

Published in Writing Prompts

close

Join 5000+ Technical Writers

Get our #1 industry rated weekly technical writing reads newsletter.

close

.

, , , .

, , .

  • Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

Student Opinion

Over 1,000 Writing Prompts for Students

creative writing ideas topics

Compiled by Michael Gonchar

  • April 12, 2018

Note: We have 300 new argumentative writing prompts to add to this list.

Sign up for our free Learning Network newsletter. Receive new writing prompts in your inbox every week.

Of all the resources we publish on The Learning Network, perhaps it’s our vast collection of writing prompts that is our most widely used resource for teaching and learning with The Times.

We’ve published iterations of this post in the past — 200 , 401 and even 650 prompts — but never before have we gathered all our prompts, for both personal and argument writing, into one categorized list.

Admittedly, the list is huge. In fact, there are 1,219 questions below on everything from video games and fashion to smartphones and parenting, and each prompt links to a Times article as well as to additional subquestions that can encourage deeper thinking.

To help you navigate this page, here’s an index of topics:

Technology (1-74): Social Media • Smartphones • Internet & Tech Arts & Entertainment (75-248): Music • Television • Video Games • Movies & Theater • Books & Reading • Writing • The Arts • Language & Speech School & Career (249-449): School • Learning & Studying • Education Tech • Teachers & Grading • School Rules & Student Life • College • Work & Careers Identity & Family (450-828): Parenting • Family • Childhood Memories • Growing Up • Overcoming Adversity • Your Personality • Religion & Morality • Role Models • Gender • Race & Ethnicity • Neighborhood & Home • Money & Social Class • What If... Social Life & Leisure Time (829-1,059): Friendship • Dating & Sex • Looks & Fashion • Food • Sports & Games • Travel • Holidays & Seasons • Shopping & Cars Science & Health (1,060-1,140): Science & Environment • Animals & Pets • Exercise & Health Civics & History (1,141-1,219): Guns & the Justice System • Government Policy • History & News

So dive into the hundreds of writing prompts below — and let us know in the comments how you might use them in your classroom.

Social Media

1. Is Social Media Making Us More Narcissistic? 2. Are You the Same Person on Social Media as You Are in Real Life? 3. How Young Is Too Young to Use Social Media? 4. What Advice Do You Have for Younger Kids About Navigating Social Media? 5. How Do You Use Facebook? 6. What Is Your Facebook Persona? 7. How Real Are You on Social Media? 8. What Memorable Experiences Have You Had on Facebook? 9. Does Facebook Ever Make You Feel Bad? 10. Does Facebook Need a ‘Dislike’ Button? 11. Has Facebook Lost Its Edge? 12. Would You Consider Deleting Your Facebook Account? 13. Would You Quit Social Media? 14. Do You Have ‘Instagram Envy’? 15. Who Is Your Favorite Social Media Star? 16. What’s So Great About YouTube? 17. What Has YouTube Taught You? 18. What Are Your Favorite Viral Videos? 19. What Are Your Favorite Internet Spoofs? 20. What Would You Teach the World in an Online Video? 21. Do You Ever Seek Advice on the Internet? 22. Would You Share an Embarrassing Story Online? 23. Do You Use Twitter? 24. Is Snapchat a Revolutionary Form of Social Media? 25. Why Do You Share Photos? 26. How Do You Archive Your Life? 27. What Ordinary Moments Would You Include in a Video About Your Life? 28. Are Digital Photographs Too Plentiful to Be Meaningful? 29. Do You Worry We Are Filming Too Much? 30. Have You Ever Posted, Emailed or Texted Something You Wish You Could Take Back? 31. Would You Want Your Photo or Video to Go Viral? 32. Do You Worry Colleges or Employers Might Read Your Social Media Posts Someday? 33. Will Social Media Help or Hurt Your College and Career Goals? 34. Should What You Say on Facebook Be Grounds for Getting Fired? 35. Are Anonymous Social Media Networks Dangerous? 36. Should People Be Allowed to Obscure Their Identities Online? 37. Are Parents Violating Their Children’s Privacy When They Share Photos and Videos of Them Online? 38. Would You Mind if Your Parents Blogged About You?

We are having trouble retrieving the article content.

Please enable JavaScript in your browser settings.

Thank you for your patience while we verify access. If you are in Reader mode please exit and  log into  your Times account, or  subscribe  for all of The Times.

Thank you for your patience while we verify access.

Already a subscriber?  Log in .

Want all of The Times?  Subscribe .

Beginners Writing Prompts: 25 Ideas to Get Your Creative Juices Flowing

By: Author Paul Jenkins

Posted on August 3, 2023

Categories Writing

Writing is an art form that can be challenging to master. Beginners may find it difficult to know where to start, what to write about, or how to develop their ideas.

That’s where writing prompts come in. Writing prompts are a useful tool for beginners to help them get started with writing and develop their skills.

Understanding writing prompts is essential for beginners. Writing prompts are ideas or topics that provide inspiration for writing. They can be anything from a single word to a complete sentence or paragraph. Writing prompts can help writers overcome writer’s block, develop their writing skills, and explore different genres and styles.

There are various types of writing prompts, including prompts for different genres, character development, setting and atmosphere, and unique writing prompts. Writing prompts can also be used for daily writing and journaling, which can help writers develop a writing habit and improve their skills.

Incorporating personal elements into writing prompts can also help writers explore their own experiences and emotions through writing.

Key Takeaways

  • Writing prompts are a useful tool for beginners to help them get started with writing and develop their skills.
  • Understanding writing prompts is essential for beginners to overcome writer’s block, develop their writing skills, and explore different genres and styles.
  • Writing prompts can be used for daily writing and journaling, character development, setting and atmosphere, and unique writing prompts.

25 Beginners Writing Prompts

Here are 25 writing prompts for beginner writers:

1. Write about your ideal day. What would you do, where would you go, who would you see?

2. Describe your favorite place in the world. What makes it so special?

3. Write a letter to your future self 10 years from now. What advice would you give your future self?

4. Describe a memorable event from your childhood. Why was it meaningful to you?

5. If you could have any superpower, what would you choose and why? How would you use this power?

6. Who is someone you admire? Why do you look up to this person?

7. What is your biggest accomplishment so far? Why does it make you proud?

8. If you could take any animal from the zoo home as a pet, which would you choose and why?

9. What is your biggest goal in life right now? Why is this goal important to you?

10. What is one thing that brings you happiness every day? Describe why it brightens your day.

11. If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would you go and why? Describe what you would do there.

12. What is your favorite holiday? Describe your ideal celebration of this holiday.

13. Who makes you laugh the most? Describe why this person is so funny.

14. What is your favorite food? Describe what it tastes and smells like.

15. What is one thing you want to accomplish this year? Why is this goal important?

16. Describe your perfect weekend. What activities would you do and who would you spend time with?

17. What is the best gift you’ve ever given someone? Why did you choose this gift?

18. Describe your favorite memory with a grandparent or elder in your life. Why was this time meaningful?

19. Who is your role model or hero? Why do you look up to this person?

20. If you could learn to do anything, what would it be? Why does this skill appeal to you?

21. What is the kindest act you’ve ever witnessed? What did this act teach you?

22. What is one cause you care deeply about? Why is it meaningful to you?

23. Describe your perfect day off from school. What would make it an amazing day?

24. What is one thing that always makes you smile? Why does this bring you joy?

25. What is your favorite season? Describe what you love about this time of year.

Understanding Writing Prompts

Writing prompts are an essential tool for beginning writers or those seeking to improve their writing skills. Writing prompts provide direction and inspiration for creative writing, helping writers overcome writer’s block, and encouraging them to explore new topics and ideas.

A writing prompt is a sentence, paragraph, or image that provides inspiration and guidance for creative writing. It may be used as a possible topic or starting point for an original essay, report, journal entry, story, poem, etc.

Writing prompts can be general or specific, and they can be tailored to suit the needs of different writers.

Understanding writing prompts is essential for beginning writers. Decoding what a prompt is asking can sometimes be overwhelming, but the sooner you understand a prompt, the sooner you can start writing. To understand a writing prompt, you need to identify the key elements and determine what type of writing the prompt is asking for.

Here are some tips for understanding writing prompts:

  • Read the prompt carefully and identify the key elements, such as the topic, purpose, and audience.
  • Determine the type of writing the prompt is asking for, such as a narrative, expository, persuasive, or descriptive essay.
  • Consider the tone and style of the writing prompt and how it should be reflected in your writing.
  • Use brainstorming techniques to generate ideas for your writing, such as mind mapping, free writing, or listing.
  • Create an outline or plan for your writing, including an introduction, body, and conclusion.

By following these tips, beginning writers can gain a better understanding of writing prompts and use them to improve their writing skills. Writing prompts can be a valuable tool for writers of all levels, providing direction, inspiration, and encouragement for creative writing.

Types of Writing Prompts

When it comes to writing prompts, there are various types that can help beginners get started. Here are some of the most common types of writing prompts:

Story Prompts

Story prompts are great for those who want to write short stories. These prompts can be in the form of a sentence, a paragraph, or even a few words. They can be based on a specific theme or genre, or they can be completely random. Some examples of story prompts include:

  • Write a story about a person who discovers they have magical powers.
  • Write a story about a character who is stranded on a deserted island.
  • Write a story about a time traveler who goes back in time to prevent a disaster.

Photo Prompts

Photo prompts are great for those who want to write descriptive pieces. These prompts involve looking at a photo and writing a story, poem, or essay about what you see. They can be based on a specific theme or genre, or they can be completely random. Some examples of photo prompts include:

  • Write a descriptive piece about a sunset over the ocean.
  • Write a story about a character who lives in a treehouse.
  • Write a poem about a flower in a field.

Social Media Prompts

Social media prompts are great for those who want to practice writing in a more casual and conversational tone. These prompts involve writing short pieces that are meant to be shared on social media platforms like Twitter or Instagram. Some examples of social media prompts include:

  • Write a tweet about your favorite book.
  • Write an Instagram caption about your morning routine.
  • Write a Facebook post about a recent vacation.

Random Word Prompts

Random word prompts are great for those who want to challenge themselves and get creative. These prompts involve choosing a random word and writing a piece based on that word. They can be based on a specific theme or genre, or they can be completely random. Some examples of random word prompts include:

  • Write a story that includes the word “serendipity.”
  • Write a poem that includes the word “nostalgia.”
  • Write an essay that includes the word “perseverance.”

Overall, writing prompts are a great way for beginners to get started with writing. By using different types of prompts, beginners can practice writing in different styles and genres, and develop their skills over time.

Writing Prompts for Different Genres

If you’re looking for writing prompts to jumpstart your creativity, you’ve come to the right place. Here are some writing prompts for different genres to help you get started.

Fantasy Prompts

Fantasy is a genre that allows you to create your own world, characters, and rules. Here are some prompts to help you get started:

  • Write about a character who discovers they have magical powers.
  • Write about a world where humans and mythical creatures coexist.
  • Write about a quest to find a lost artifact that has the power to save the world.
  • Write about a character who must choose between good and evil.

Romance Prompts

Romance is a genre that explores the complexities of love and relationships. Here are some prompts to help you get started:

  • Write about a love triangle between three friends.
  • Write about a second chance at love between two former lovers.
  • Write about a forbidden love between two people from different worlds.
  • Write about a character who must choose between their career and their love life.

Adventure Prompts

Adventure is a genre that takes readers on a journey to new and exciting places. Here are some prompts to help you get started:

  • Write about a character who sets out to explore a mysterious island.
  • Write about a group of friends who embark on a road trip across the country.
  • Write about a character who discovers a hidden treasure map and sets out to find the treasure.
  • Write about a character who must survive in the wilderness after a plane crash.

Horror Prompts

Horror is a genre that explores the darker side of human nature. Here are some prompts to help you get started:

  • Write about a haunted house that is rumored to be cursed.
  • Write about a character who is being stalked by a serial killer.
  • Write about a group of friends who go camping in the woods and encounter a supernatural entity.
  • Write about a character who becomes possessed by a demon.

Remember, these are just prompts to help you get started. Use them as a jumping off point and let your imagination take over. Happy writing!

Using Writing Prompts to Overcome Writer’s Block

Writer’s block is a common phenomenon that can affect writers of all levels. It can be frustrating and can hinder the creative process. However, using writing prompts can be an effective way to overcome writer’s block and get the creative juices flowing.

Writing prompts are a great way to inspire and encourage creativity. They can be used to generate new ideas, explore different perspectives, and challenge yourself to think outside the box. Writing prompts can be anything from a single word to a full sentence or paragraph.

When using writing prompts, it’s important to keep an open mind and let your imagination run wild. Don’t be afraid to take risks and try new things. The goal is to inspire creativity and get the words flowing.

Here are some tips for using writing prompts to overcome writer’s block:

  • Choose a prompt that speaks to you. Look for prompts that inspire you and that you feel a connection to.
  • Set a timer. Give yourself a set amount of time to write without stopping. This can help to get your creative juices flowing and prevent you from getting stuck.
  • Don’t worry about grammar or spelling. The goal is to get your ideas down on paper. You can always go back and edit later.
  • Use the prompt as a starting point. Don’t feel like you have to stick to the prompt exactly. Use it as a jumping-off point to explore new ideas and perspectives.

In conclusion, using writing prompts can be an effective way to overcome writer’s block and inspire creativity. By choosing the right prompt, setting a timer, and letting your imagination run wild, you can break through the barriers that are holding you back and unleash your inner writer.

Incorporating Personal Elements into Writing Prompts

When it comes to writing prompts, incorporating personal elements can make the writing process more enjoyable and meaningful. By including personal experiences, interests, and goals, writers can create more engaging and authentic pieces.

One way to incorporate personal elements is to use prompts that relate to family and home. For example, a prompt could ask writers to describe a favorite family tradition or a memorable moment from their childhood home.

These prompts can evoke strong emotions and memories, making the writing process more personal and meaningful.

Another way to incorporate personal elements is to use prompts that relate to favorite movies, words, and meals. These prompts can encourage writers to explore their preferences and reflect on what makes them unique. For example, a prompt could ask writers to describe their favorite movie and explain why it resonates with them. This can help writers develop their voice and style.

Writing prompts can also encourage writers to think about their relationships and goals. Prompts that ask about best friends or bucket lists can inspire writers to reflect on their values and aspirations.

For example, a prompt could ask writers to describe their dream job and explain why it is meaningful to them. This can help writers develop a sense of purpose and direction.

Overall, incorporating personal elements into writing prompts can help writers create more engaging and authentic pieces. By using prompts that relate to family, home, favorite movies, words, meals, best friends, bucket lists, and dream jobs, writers can explore their interests and experiences in a meaningful way.

Writing Prompts for Character Development

When it comes to writing a story, character development is a crucial aspect that can make or break the entire plot. Creating compelling characters that readers can relate to and empathize with is essential to keeping them engaged from beginning to end. Here are some writing prompts to help you develop your characters.

Hero Prompts

  • Describe your hero’s personality in three words.
  • What is your hero’s greatest strength and how does it help them achieve their goals?
  • What is your hero’s biggest fear and how does it hold them back?
  • Write a scene where your hero is faced with a difficult decision that tests their morals and values.
  • How does your hero handle failure and setbacks? Write a scene where they face a major setback and how they overcome it.

Villain Prompts

  • What motivates your villain’s actions? Is it envy, power, or something else?
  • What is your villain’s biggest weakness and how does it lead to their downfall?
  • Write a scene where your villain is faced with a moral dilemma and how they choose to act.
  • What is your villain’s backstory and how did they become the way they are?
  • How does your villain justify their actions to themselves? Write a scene where they have an internal conflict about their actions.

Secondary Character Prompts

  • What is your secondary character’s role in the story?
  • How does your secondary character feel about the hero or villain?
  • Write a scene where your secondary character has to make a difficult decision that affects the hero or villain.
  • What is your secondary character’s backstory and how does it affect their actions in the story?
  • What is your secondary character’s relationship with the hero or villain? Write a scene that shows their dynamic.

Character development is an essential part of writing a story that readers will love. By using these prompts, you can create characters that are relatable, complex, and engaging. Remember to use these prompts as a starting point and let your imagination take over to create unique and memorable characters.

Writing Prompts for Setting and Atmosphere

When it comes to creative writing, setting and atmosphere can help create a vivid and engaging story. Here are some writing prompts to help you get started:

Weather Prompts

Weather can set the mood and tone for a story. Use these prompts to explore different weather conditions:

  • Write about a character who gets lost in a dense fog.
  • Describe a scene where a character is caught in a sudden rainstorm.
  • Create a story that takes place during a snowstorm.
  • Write about a character who is stranded in a desert during a sandstorm.

Location Prompts

The location of a story can be just as important as the characters themselves. Use these prompts to explore different locations:

  • Write about a character who explores an abandoned warehouse.
  • Describe a scene that takes place in a Hollywood movie studio.
  • Create a story that takes place in a small desert town.

Time of Day Prompts

The time of day can also set the mood and tone for a story. Use these prompts to explore different times of day:

  • Write about a character who goes for a midnight walk.
  • Describe a scene that takes place during a sunrise.
  • Create a story that takes place during a sunset.

Remember, these prompts are just a starting point. Use them to spark your imagination and create unique stories that are engaging and entertaining.

Unique Writing Prompts

If you’re looking for writing prompts that are a little different from the usual, here are some unique ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

  • Tea time: Write a story or poem that revolves around a cup of tea. Who is drinking it? What is their mood? What memories or emotions does it bring up for them?
  • Animal kingdom: Write a story from the point of view of an animal. It could be a pet, a wild animal, or even a mythical creature. What do they see, hear, and feel in their world?
  • Phone call: Write a scene that takes place entirely over the phone. Who is calling whom? What is the conversation about? Is it a happy or tense exchange?
  • Kindness challenge: Write about a character who sets out to do one act of kindness every day for a month. What challenges do they face? How do their actions affect those around them?
  • Mirror, mirror: Write a story that involves a magical mirror. What does it show the person who looks into it? Is it a force for good or evil?
  • Moving on: Write a story about someone who is moving to a new place. How do they feel about leaving their old life behind? What adventures await them in their new home?
  • Halloween hijinks: Write a spooky story that takes place on Halloween night. Will your characters encounter ghosts, witches, or something even more terrifying?
  • Alien invasion: Write a story about an alien invasion. How do humans react? Is there a hero who saves the day, or is it a hopeless battle?
  • Legend has it: Write a story based on a local legend or myth. Is there any truth to the tale, or is it just a fanciful story?
  • Teddy bear: Write a story about a teddy bear that comes to life. What adventures does it have with its new human friend?
  • Getaway: Write a story about a character who takes a spontaneous trip. Where do they go, and what do they discover about themselves along the way?
  • Zombie apocalypse: Write a story about a world overrun by zombies. How do the survivors band together to stay alive?
  • Friendship: Write a story about a new friendship that blossoms unexpectedly. What draws the characters together, and what challenges do they face?
  • Rewrite history: Write a story that reimagines a historical event. What if things had gone differently? How would the world be changed?
  • Sounds of nature: Write a story that incorporates the sounds of nature. What do your characters hear, and how does it affect their mood and actions?

These unique writing prompts are just the beginning. Use them as a jumping-off point to explore your own creativity and discover new stories to tell.

Daily Writing and Journaling Prompts

Daily writing prompts are a great way to develop good writing habits and improve your writing skills. They can help you get into the habit of writing regularly, which can be especially helpful for beginners. There are many different types of daily writing prompts, including prompts for journaling, creative writing, and more.

Journaling is a great way to reflect on your thoughts and feelings and can help you gain insight into your own life. Daily journaling prompts can help you get started and keep you motivated. Some popular journaling prompts include writing about your goals, your dreams, your fears, or your daily routine.

Daily writing prompts can also be used for creative writing. These prompts can help you develop your writing skills and explore new ideas. Some popular creative writing prompts include writing about a character, a setting, or a plot.

If you prefer to write in a diary or a letter format, daily writing prompts can still be helpful. You can use prompts to write about your day, your thoughts, or your feelings. You can also use prompts to write letters to yourself or to someone else.

Setting an alarm can be a helpful way to remind yourself to write every day. You can set an alarm for the same time every day, or you can set it for a different time each day to keep things interesting.

Overall, daily writing prompts can be a helpful tool for beginners who want to develop good writing habits and improve their writing skills. By using daily writing prompts, you can get into the habit of writing regularly and explore new ideas and topics.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some simple creative writing prompts.

If you’re a beginner looking for some simple creative writing prompts, you can start with some basic ideas like writing about your daily routine, describing a favorite place, or writing a letter to your future self.

What are the easiest topics to write about?

The easiest topics to write about are those that you are familiar with, such as your hobbies, interests, or experiences. You can also write about your favorite books, movies, or TV shows.

What are 5 minute writing prompts for adults?

If you’re looking for some 5 minute writing prompts for adults, you can try writing a short story about a character who finds a mysterious object, writing a letter to your younger self, or describing a memorable moment from your childhood.

What are good writing prompts?

Good writing prompts are those that inspire you to write and help you develop your writing skills. Some good writing prompts include writing about a difficult decision you had to make, describing a favorite childhood memory, or writing a story from the perspective of an animal.

What are some quick writing prompts?

If you’re short on time and need some quick writing prompts, you can try writing a haiku about a favorite season, writing a letter to your favorite fictional character, or describing a dream you had last night.

What are some daily writing prompts?

Daily writing prompts can help you develop a daily writing habit and improve your writing skills. Some daily writing prompts include writing about a recent accomplishment, describing a favorite place, or writing a story based on a picture.

Creative writing prompts

Get students writing with over 30 creative writing prompts. Helping students explore their curiosity and giving them the boost they need to get started with writing.

How to use our creative writing prompts?

Think of these 30 creative writing prompts as quick brainstorms to give you something interesting to focus on and start writing about. Great for using with students in your classroom, or setting homework assignments.

Choose a writing prompt from the list below:

  • What animal would judge us the most? Write a scene (based on truth or fiction) where two or more people are doing something silly, and they're being observed and criticized by animals.
  • Imagine that we lost all electricity, water, and gas for a month without any time to prepare. Write about how your life would change and how you would survive.
  • Can honesty honestly be bad? Write about someone, fact or fiction, who gets in trouble for being too truthful.
  • Pick two characters from different books you’ve read this year and have them get in an argument about something (e.g., who has suffered more, who has had a happier life, etc.).
  • What if your pet could only talk to you at midnight for an hour?
  • Imagine that you are an astronaut who has been doing research on the moon for three years. You are going to go back to earth in a week when nuclear war breaks out on earth. You watch the earth explode. Then what?
  • Create a menu from a fictitious restaurant. Make sure the restaurant has a theme, such as Classic Books, and the food should all be given appropriate names (e.g., “Mockingbird Pie”).
  • Imagine a moral dilemma (for example, you see someone shoplift or a friend tells a blatant lie to her parents about where she was last night) and explain what you would do and why you would do it.
  • You’re a talk show host. Pick two guests. Why did you choose them? Are they people who get along, or people with vastly different viewpoints? Write about the episode.
  • Free write on this quote by Woodrow Wilson: “Friendship is the only cement that will hold the world together.”
  • Describe your dream bedroom. What would be in it and why?
  • The moment I woke up, I knew something wasn’t right…
  • List six true sentences that begin with the words “I'll never forget…”
  • Tell this story: “Well, I thought it was going to be a regular summer doing all our regular things…”
  • A guitar pick, a red balloon, and a wicker basket. Write a scene or a poem that includes these three objects.
  • Imagine that someone says to you, “Because that's how we've always done it!” Write this out as a scene. (Think: Who said it, what were the circumstances, how did you respond, etc.)
  • What can we learn from contrast? Write a description of something very dark (like a crow) in a very light place (like a field of snow). Make the dark thing seem innocent and the light thing seem ominous.
  • “I was so mortified, I wanted to crawl in a hole!” Write a short narrative (fiction or nonfiction) where this is your first sentence. Illustrate it if you want.
  • Tell this story: “There it was, finally. Our island. Our very own island. It looked beautiful above the waves of fog, but there was still one question to be answered: why had they sold it to us for only five dollars?”
  • "When I stepped outside, the whole world smelled like…" Write a scene that starts with that line.
  • Use these two lines of dialogue in a story: "What's in your hand?" "It's mine. I found it."
  • Write a story for children. Start with “Once upon a time” or “Long ago in a land far away.” Include a dragon, a deadly flower, and a mask.
  • "Did she actually just say that?" Write a scene that includes this line.
  • Create a story using words of one-syllable only, beginning with a phrase such as:

“The last time I saw her, she...”

“From the back of the truck...”

“On the night of the full moon...”

“The one thing I know for sure…”

“What you don’t know what hurt you.” Write a story that begins with this statement.

"That's not what I meant!" Write a story that has this line in it somewhere

Try these creative writing prompts using Read&Write

Read&Write is a literacy support tool that helps students with everyday reading and writing tasks. Your students can use tools in Read&Write like Check It, Talk and Type, and the text and picture dictionaries to help them to express their thoughts and ideas.

  • Universal Design for Learning
  • Math and STEM
  • Inclusive Education
  • Special Education
  • Read&Write
  • SpeechStream
  • Inclusive Workplaces
  • Neurodiverse Employees
  • Creating Accessible Content

Resource center

  • Impact Studies
  • Customer Stories

Learn & Support

  • Tech Support
  • Certification Program
  • Toolmatcher
  • Accessibility Roadmap

IMAGES

  1. 50 CREATIVE WRITING COMPETITION TOPICS

    creative writing ideas topics

  2. 44 Good Writing Ideas • JournalBuddies.com

    creative writing ideas topics

  3. Fuel your students' curiosity with this series of all new creative

    creative writing ideas topics

  4. 107 Creative writing topics for kids: Imaginative & Fun

    creative writing ideas topics

  5. 61 Creative Writing Prompt Ideas for Student Writers

    creative writing ideas topics

  6. 34 Exciting Creative Writing Topics for Grade 5 • JournalBuddies.com

    creative writing ideas topics

COMMENTS

  1. 1800+ Creative Writing Prompts To Inspire You Right Now

    Here's how our contest works: every Friday, we send out a newsletter containing five creative writing prompts. Each week, the story ideas center around a different theme. Authors then have one week — until the following Friday — to submit a short story based on one of our prompts. A winner is picked each week to win $250 and is highlighted ...

  2. 199+ Creative Writing Prompts To Help You Write Your Next Story

    All creative writing prompts offer a new opportunity to explore an aspect of life, an alternate universe, or a moment in time, transforming a blank page into a canvas brimming with vivid stories. A long list of creative writing prompts and writing ideas. 1. Symphony of the Skies. Imagine a world where music can literally change the weather.

  3. 365 Creative Writing Prompts

    14. The Found Poem: Read a book and circle some words on a page. Use those words to craft a poem. Alternatively, you can cut out words and phrases from magazines. 15. Eavesdropper: Create a poem, short story, or journal entry about a conversation you've overheard. Printable Ad-Free 365 Writing Prompt Cards. 16.

  4. 100 Creative Writing Prompts for Writers

    Click to continue. *****. 100 Creative Writing Prompts for Writers. 1. The Variants of Vampires. Think of an alternative vampire that survives on something other than blood. Write a story or scene based on this character. 2. Spinning the Globe.

  5. 70 Creative Writing Prompts to Inspire You to Write

    Creative Writing Prompts Can Boost Your Writing Skills. Using writing prompts can boost your creativity and improve your writing skills in a number of ways by: Helping to overcome writer's block. Exercising your imagination. Increasing your rate of practice. Teaching you more about yourself.

  6. 25 Creative Writing Prompts to Ignite Your Creativity

    Here, we've broken down 25 prompts into five categories: fiction, non-fiction, poetry, dialogue, and story starters. Fiction allows writers to flex their imaginative muscles. The following prompts can help to stir up new ideas for a unique storyline: Write a story where the main character finds an old, mysterious letter in the attic.

  7. 365 Daily Writing Prompts for Creative Writers

    Take the 30-Day Creative Writing Challenge. Press the GENERATE button above. (If it doesn't work, refresh the page.) The text box will generate a short creative writing prompt or topic you can write about today. (If you can't see the whole line, use your cursor to highlight the text and keep scrolling to the right.)

  8. 100 Creative Writing Prompts to Inspire Your Writing

    A writing prompt is a specific, often short, phrase, question, or statement designed to stimulate and inspire creative writing. Writing prompts can help you overcome writer's block, generate new ideas, or simply get your creative juices flowing. You can use them in various forms of writing, including fiction, poetry, journaling, and essay ...

  9. 300 Creative Writing Prompts to Spur Your Creativity

    The solution lies in writing prompts—effective tools that ignite your creativity and kickstart your storytelling journey. Here are 300 writing prompts that can steer you toward fresh narratives and unexplored themes. 1 to 50: These prompts focus on the personal. They lead you to introspect and narrate your experiences.

  10. 128 Creative Journal Prompts (Updated!) » JournalBuddies.com

    Creative Journal Prompts is newly updated (August 2022) — Hooray! Here you will discover loads of fun, fabulous creative writing prompts and ideas for writers of all ages and stages of life. Best of all, this list of ideas has been updated and EXPANDED from 63 ideas to 128 wonderful creative writing prompts. Wow!

  11. 2,500 Writing Prompts to Ignite Your Creativity

    Grab your pen, stretch those fingers, and get ready to unleash your creativity. We've assembled a collection of writing prompts that range from wild adventures to deep reflections. Whether you're writing for fun, working on your next masterpiece, or just looking for a quick creative boost, these prompts will give you the inspiration you need. […]

  12. 60 Daily Creative Prompts for Inspired Writing

    60 Absolutely Awesome Daily Creative Prompts. 129 More Daily Creative Prompts Lists for You. A Few Closing Thoughts. In the first 45 prompts, you'll write short stories, poems, dialogue-based scenes, brief memoirs, or personal essays, and reflect on topics through the lens of an object. You'll really be challenged to flex your creative ...

  13. 1800+ Creative Writing Prompts To Inspire You Right Now

    Join Tom Bromley for a writing master class and finish your first draft in 3 months. Browse through hundreds of creative writing prompts — and enter our free short story contest to WIN $250 and publication. Kickstart your writing now! - Page 1.

  14. Creative Writing Prompts

    Here are 365 Creative Writing Prompts to help inspire you to write every single day! Use them for journaling, story starters, poetry, and more! 42 Fantasy Writing Prompts & Plot Ideas. These 42 fantasy writing prompts and plot ideas are waiting for you to write them into your next big novel, screenplay, short story.

  15. Creative Writing Prompts

    The Rich Couple. Every writer needs a little inspiration once in a while. For today's prompt, write a story based on the sentence "The rich couple was never generous, with their time or with their compliments." By Moriah Richard Aug 6, 2024. Writing Prompts.

  16. Top 150 Short Story Ideas

    Creative writing prompts are easy, fun ways to practice. 2. When you have no ideas and are stuck. Sometimes, you want to write, but you can't think up any ideas. You could either just sit there, staring at a blank page, or you could find a few ideas to help you get started. Even better if the list of ideas is curated from our best plot ideas ...

  17. 45 Creative Writing Prompts to Boost your Inspiration

    If you're dying to tap into the prolific poet within, here are five poem writing prompts to help. Take a walk through a nature trail, and write a poem about what you see on your walk. Create a poem using descriptive details about a person you love. Write about a day you laughed instead of cried.

  18. 100+ Creative Writing Prompts for Masterful Storytelling

    1. Horror writing prompts. 1) A man inside the coffin breaks the coffin and starts walking. 2) A demonic spirit has entered your friend's body and she is moving closer to attack you. 3) You wake up in an empty house and see a ghost. 4) A doll you brought for a friend suddenly starts speaking.

  19. 105 Creative Writing Prompts to Try Out · PrepScholar

    15 Cool Writing Prompts. #1: List five issues that you're passionate about. Write about them from the opposite point of view (or from the perspective of a character with the opposite point of view). #2: Walk around and write down a phrase you hear (or read). Make a story out of it.

  20. 140 Creative Writing Prompts For Adults

    Use these creative writing prompts for adults to get you started on the right path to a successful story and suffer from writer's block for the last time. This list of writing prompts for adults can be taken and used in any way you want. Details can be changed, and characters can be added or removed. They are meant to be a fun way to get your ...

  21. 20 creative writing prompts that you can do in 10 minutes

    For a quick creative writing exercise, try one of the 20 writing prompts below, excerpted from Chronicle Books' 642 Tiny Things to Write About. Each prompt was created by a writing teacher at the San Francisco Writers Grotto to be done in 10 minutes or less. For a bigger creative challenge, do one writing prompt a day for 20 days.

  22. Over 1,000 Writing Prompts for Students

    Of all the resources we publish on The Learning Network, perhaps it's our vast collection of writing prompts that is our most widely used resource for teaching and learning with The Times. We ...

  23. Beginners Writing Prompts: 25 Ideas to Get Your Creative ...

    Some examples of random word prompts include: Write a story that includes the word "serendipity.". Write a poem that includes the word "nostalgia.". Write an essay that includes the word "perseverance.". Overall, writing prompts are a great way for beginners to get started with writing.

  24. 30 creative writing prompts to inspire you and your students

    Try these creative writing prompts using Read&Write Read&Write is a literacy support tool that helps students with everyday reading and writing tasks. Your students can use tools in Read&Write like Check It, Talk and Type, and the text and picture dictionaries to help them to express their thoughts and ideas.