Writing Prompt: Tongue Tied

 Writing Prompt: Tongue Tied

 

These exercises were written by IWW members and administrators to provide structured practice opportunities for its members. You are welcome to use them for practice as well. Please mention that you found them at the Internet Writers Workshop. 

 

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Exercise:  In 400 words or less, write a story in which a character remains silent during a conversation or discussion. Show how internal tension builds as the character says not a word.

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There are times when silence seems to be the best policy. Sometimes a person finds it preferable to keep quiet or to remain noncommittal.
 

For example, a person might become uncomfortable being with someone
who makes racist remarks. Or perhaps a family member feels like an outcast when near and dear get into a political discussion.

Since your main character won't be uttering words, you’ll need to show internal tension through other means. Find ways to show the range of emotions that are being experienced as the discussion continues.

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In your critique, tell the author if you were able to relate to the character. Could you feel the emotional tension? How was it shown? 

Did this scene resonate with your own experiences, and were you drawn into the drama? If not, tell the author where something pulled you out
of the scene.

 Some more writing prompts for you to try.