Pretty in Pink (writing prompts!)
Today's writing prompts were inspired by the John Hughes classic, Pretty in Pink.
First some thoughts on a daily writing routine from novelist A.S. Byatt:
“I start work in the morning at about ten — having put the washing in the washing machine, and gone to the green grocer — and I will read something easy to stop me thinking about the house, and then I read something difficult to make my mind be really moving — you know like running a car in. And then after a bit if I read something difficult that’s really interesting I get this itch to start writing. So what I like to do is to write from about half past twelve, one, through to about four. And then I start reading again. That would be a perfect day’s work.”
What does your writing routine look like?
Today’s prompts were inspired by Pretty in Pink...
EXERCISE #1: “Volcanic Ensemble.”
JOURNALING PROMPT: Write about a time when you felt and looked your best. Be as superficial as possible.
FICTION PROMPT: If you’re writing a narrative, write a scene where your protagonist is getting ready for a special occasion and dressing up. Include a dirty shirt, an insecurity, and a surprise.
BONUS ELEMENT: Include a kiss, or even the idea of a kiss.
EXERCISE #2: “A Stupid Tradition.”
JOURNALING PROMPT: What is your oldest/longest-held tradition? What do you love about this tradition and what do you hate about this tradition?
FICTION PROMPT: If you’re writing a narrative, write a scene where your protagonist confronts another character. Let them be furious about something. Include a broken tradition.
BONUS ELEMENT: Include MOVEMENT of some sort.
EXERCISE #3: “Declaration of Love.”
JOURNALING PROMPT: Make a list of things that bring you joy, then choose one of these joyful things to write about in more depth.
FICTION PROMPT: If you’re writing a narrative, write a monologue where your protagonist talks about all of the things that bring them joy. Be as specific as possible. Let them be embarrassingly earnest.
BONUS ELEMENT: Stillness.
EXERCISE #4: “I just want them to know they didn’t break me.”
JOURNALING PROMPT: What is your most awkward memory from when you were younger?
FICTION PROMPT: If you’re writing a narrative, I still want you to think about one of your most awkward childhood memories, but give this memory to one of your characters. How did event shape them? Write a scene where they talk to another character about how this moment made them stronger.
BONUS ELEMENT: A sad song.
EXERCISE #5: “I don’t know if I’m emotionally ready.”
JOURNALING PROMPT: Write about something that you’re avoiding right now.
FICTION PROMPT: If you’re writing a narrative, write a scene where your protagonist is talking to someone about an upcoming trip...but they’re nervous about something. Include: an unanswered phone call, a repeated line of dialogue, and a pop song.
BONUS ELEMENT: look at this photo and incorporate however this photo makes you feel…
EXERCISE #6: “You want beauty, look in the mirror.”
JOURNALING PROMPT: Write a letter to someone you miss. Give them at least five compliments.
FICTION PROMPT: If you’re writing a narrative, write a scene where your protagonist is talking to themselves in a bathroom mirror, practicing a conversation they don’t want to have with someone. Include: a compliment, a dumb joke, and the color blue.
BONUS ELEMENT: A moment...that lasts longer...than you expect it to.
EXERCISE #7: “You don’t have the guts to tell me the truth.”
JOURNALING PROMPT: Write about a decision you made in the past that you now regret. Maybe it’s a time when you wish you had spoken up about something but didn’t.
FICTION PROMPT: If you’re writing a narrative, write a confrontation scene. Start with the line: “Tell me the truth.” Keep the stakes high. Let your characters argue. Let it get emotional.
BONUS ELEMENT: Status
EXERCISE #8: “It’s called a sense of humor.”
JOURNALING PROMPT: Who is the funniest person you know? Why and how are they funny?
FICTION PROMPT: If you’re writing a narrative, write a scene where one of your characters acts like a tremendous jerk. Include a moment of sarcasm. And for fun, let’s make it a CHASE SCENE. However you want to interpret that.
BONUS ELEMENT: Spectacle!
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