Writing Prompt: Page Turner

 

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 scene that puts your character right in the middle of some exciting action.

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Action scenes on film involve our eyes and ears (and if the sound in the theater is loud enough, our whole body). However, in print, our principal tool is detailed description. Details help the reader imagine what the action feels like based on sensory experience.

Action can be anything from a bomb squad technician working against the clock, to a man fleeing from would-be attackers on a crowded city sidewalk, to a boxer in the fight of his life. If the reader is involved in the story, he/she will feel the sweat on the technician s brow, the panic of the pursuit, or the exhaustion of the fighter.

Action scenes are challenging ways to provide conflict in your story. In mystery and suspense novels, action scenes usually heighten the tension and move the plot along. "Show don't tell when describing action."

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In your critique, tell the writer whether the action made you squirm. Did it raise the tension to an uncomfortable level? Give examples of detail that worked or didn't work. Could the writing have been tighter? Was the piece balanced? Did the action scene fit realistically into a plot or was it just one big car chase or explosion? Would you read on?

 

Some more writing prompts for you to try.

Writing Prompt: Music to my Ears

 Writing Prompt: Music to my Ears

 

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 scene in which a musical instrument is important.

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Your scene could be written from the point of view of someone hearing an instrument being played, wanting to be able to play an instrument, listening to someone practice (happily or unhappily), or even, if you dare, from the point of view of the instrument itself.

You could write about an unusual instrument, something from another culture; or about a musical instrument associated with an historical person or event, e.g., the little drummer boy, or bagpipers rousing men for battle, or a bugle playing Taps.

You could write about a concert experience, or about someone whose "life" is his instrument, the virtuoso, the wannabe, or the has-been. How do you feel about accordions?  Did your mother make you practice piano / violin / kettle drums every day when you were a kid?

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In your critique tell the author whether or not the work fits the exercise and why.  Let the author know what you think worked or didn't work, and why.

And, in this particular exercise, you might also want to consider the
author's handling of the sense of sound, not only the physical sound, but its emotional effect. Does he write about the sound of an instrument in such a way that the reader will share the experience?  Is the piece wildly creative, or reassuringly factual?  What did you learn from it that will affect your own writing?

 

Some more writing prompts for you to try.

Writing Prompt: Wake Up

 Writing Prompt: Wake Up

 

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, your character awakes in an unexpected location and you must show how the character reacts.

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Your character comes to consciousness and is surprised by the surroundings. Show your readers what the character experiences, how he/she behaves.

The tale should begin the moment the character wakes up. Remember, this is not to be a story about a dream, but about a real event in your character's life.

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In your critiques, note how well the writer has constructed the setting and shown us authentic characters acting in believable ways. What do we learn of the characters from their reactions? Would you like to read more of the story? And, as usual, pay attention to all the technical concerns that go into good writing. 

 

Some more writing prompts for you to try.

Unleashing Creativity: Rekindle the Imagination with Fiction Writing Prompts by Olivia Salter

Unleashing Creativity: Rekindle the Imagination with Fiction Writing Prompts 

 

by Olivia Salter

 

 

As any writer knows, the creative process can sometimes be a fickle friend. There are moments when inspiration flows effortlessly and ideas pour onto the page effortlessly. But there are also times when the dreaded writer's block takes hold, leaving a blank and unyielding canvas. It is during these times that fiction writing prompts can serve as a valuable tool for writers to rekindle their imagination and spur their creativity.

Fiction writing prompts are concise, thought-provoking phrases, sentences, or situations designed to ignite the writer's imagination and stimulate the creation of new storylines or characters. They serve as seeds from which a writer can grow a captivating narrative, exploring uncharted territories and pushing their creative boundaries. Here are a few reasons why writers should incorporate fiction writing prompts into their writing routine:

1. Ignite Creativity: Writing prompts provide the perfect spark to jump-start the creative engine. By presenting a unique concept, character, or scenario, prompts challenge writers to think outside the box and explore ideas they may have never considered before. They serve as a creative catalyst, forcing writers to embark on a journey beyond their comfort zones.

2. Overcome Writer's Block: Every writer has encountered that dreaded feeling of staring at a blank page, unable to find the right words. Writing prompts act as antidotes to writer's block, giving writers a direction when they feel lost. Prompts provide a starting point, eliminating the blank page syndrome and moving writers beyond that initial hurdle.

3. Practice and Experimentation: Writing prompts offer a structured way for writers to practice their craft and experiment with different styles, genres, and narrative techniques. By using prompts regularly, writers can enhance their writing skills, explore new genres, and broaden their horizons. It allows them to step out of their comfort zones and develop versatility in their storytelling.

4. Enhance Skills: Writing prompts can focus on specific elements of storytelling, such as dialogue, setting, or character development. By using these prompts, writers can hone their skills in these areas and develop a deeper understanding of their strengths and weaknesses. This focused practice can lead to significant improvements in their overall writing abilities.

5. Inspiration for Larger Projects: Prompts can serve as the foundation for larger writing projects. A seemingly insignificant prompt can evolve into a fully-fledged novel, short story, or screenplay. They act as seeds that grow into intricate worlds, complex plots, and captivating characters. Starting small with a prompt can unleash an avalanche of inspiration and lead to remarkable creative endeavors.

6. Break Routine and Avoid Stagnation: Writing prompts provide variety and excitement in the writing process. They inject freshness into a writer's routine and break the monotony of working on a single project for an extended period. Prompts present new challenges and push writers to think differently, preventing stagnation and encouraging continuous growth.

7. Connect with Writing Communities: Many writers use writing prompts as a bonding experience with other writers. Sharing and discussing prompts with fellow authors can foster a sense of community, feedback, and encouragement. It creates opportunities for collaboration and engagement with like-minded individuals, creating a supportive network of fellow writers.

In conclusion, fiction writing prompts offer countless benefits to writers, whether they are beginners or seasoned professionals. They act as a catalyst for creativity, a tool to overcome writer's block, and a guide for skill improvement. By incorporating these prompts into their writing routine, writers open the door to endless possibilities, explore uncharted territories, and weave captivating tales. So, the next time you find yourself facing a blank page, embrace the power of fiction writing prompts and let your imagination soar.

 

Also see:

• 50 Fiction Writing Prompts and Ideas to Inspire You to Write
• More Writing Prompts
   

Writing Prompt: Music Hath Charms

 Writing Prompt: Music Hath Charms

 

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, create a scene in which you describe some kind of music and the effect it has on a listener or listeners.

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In William Congreve's 1697 play, The Mourning Bride, a character says, Music hath charms to soothe the savage breast. (often misquoted as 'savage beast') It's still true. We play a lullaby to put a baby to sleep and a suitor woos his beloved with a serenade. But music can also wake the savage beast within us. Soldiers march off to war to stirring patriotic music. Somber music is played at a traditional funeral, but in New Orleans, a dixieland jazz band sets a lively pace returning from the cemetery. Acid rock, house, hip hop, reggae, or rap can turn an arena into a writhing sea of sweaty bodies. Opera buffs swoon over an aria. Swinging big bands were the sound track to the heartaches and homecomings of WWII.

Music mirrors our culture and society and is a way to travel back in time. Listen to Mozart or Bach, and you are in a different world for a while. Show us a character appreciating, or hating, or being stirred by music, and describe that music so that we will know why the character reacts as he does. The music can be from any place or anywhere—harpsichord, jungle drums, a
shepherd's flute, or a one-stringed Chinese banjo.

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In your critique, consider whether the description of the music will help the reader to 'hear' it. Does the author's description make us understand why the character reacts as he/she does? What tools of the writing craft does the author use to evoke the sounds of music—language, pacing, repetition, rhythm, or perhaps comparison to senses other than hearing.

 Some more writing prompts for you to try.

 

Writing Prompt: Irritating Gnat

 

 

 Writing Prompt: Irritating Gnat

 

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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 What is a gnat as a person?

A gnat may be used to describe a person that is very much annoying and persistent but no matter what you try, you can't get rid of them. It is derogatory because you are comparing a person to an insect that just won't let you be.

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Exercise: In 400 words or less, introduce a character that has all the characteristics of an irritating gnat. This person will demonstrate disruptive behavior, and will resist efforts to restore order. Show the disruptive behavior and how this affects your characters. Make sure your characters' words and actions reveal how
this character is perceived.

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Are the other characters successful in dealing with the gnat? Do any perceive the gnat as endearing, intolerable, or something else of your own choosing? Remember to enlighten the reader via character words and behavior.

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Critique: Did the author present a gnat that could be believed? Did the other characters' interactions feel genuine? Were you drawn to the story? Provide suggestions you believe would strengthen the writing or enliven the scene.

 

 Some more writing prompts for you to try.

Experiment with Writing Prompts | Writing Tip Of The Day

 

 

Experiment with Writing Prompts

 

One of the best writing tips for aspiring writers is using a prompt. You can find endless writing prompts online that are suited for all types of genres. Pick one that stimulates your imagination and encourages you to get creative.

 Some writing prompts for you to try. More Writing Tips of the Day.

 

Writing Prompt: A Knock on a Door

 

 Writing Prompt: A Knock on a Door

 

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 less than 400 words, show a character who hears a knock on a door. If the door is opened, what ensues? If the door remains closed, what's the
reason? Your main character can be a person, a house pet, a robot, or
anyone or anything able to hear or respond to a knock on a door.

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A knock on a door can cause different reactions. A knock can startle a listener. Sometimes, a knock might be expected, or perhaps ... dreaded.

This prompt may open your imagination to a plethora of locations. You might dream up a situation that takes place in the past, future, or perhaps, out of this world. Example: In 2003, the first Chinese astronaut, Yang Liwei, made a 21-hour space trip aboard Shenzhou 5.
 

During a 2016 interview with China Central Television, he described
hearing strange noises during his mission: loud knocks coming from
nowhere, from time to time. After his revelation, other Chinese astronauts revealed that they had also heard loud knocks during their space flights. No one could tell them what might have caused the knocks.

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Critique: Were you intrigued by the intro? Could you picture the
scene? Did the dialogue ring true? And how did the ending work for
you? Would you read further? Do you have suggestions for the writer?

 

 Some more writing prompts for you to try.

 

Writing Prompt: Ticket to Ride

 

 Writing Prompt: Ticket to Ride

 

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, create a scene in which a character embarks on a journey. Your piece might be a character sketch, a flash piece, memoir, poem, or a start on something longer.

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While formulating your scene, consider: How does your character view the upcoming trip? Does a pressing problem – or an unsettling mystery – need the attention of the traveler? Perhaps an acquaintance awaits the protagonist’s arrival. Will there be a joyful reunion or an
unpleasant confrontation?

Be creative and imaginative. Enjoy the exercise.

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In your critique, consider the writer's creative approach to the implications of the journey. Is the plot treatment fresh, unique, interesting? What do you like about the story? What works or doesn't interest you? Cite examples. Could the drama be explored further? Could the author improve the piece? How?

 

 Some more writing prompts for you to try.

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.

Writing Prompt: Foreshadowing (Version 2)

 Writing Prompt: Foreshadowing  (Version 2)

 

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 that uses foreshadowing as a plot device to hint that something is going to happen, then fulfill that hint by the end of the story.

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Foreshadowing is a tool we can use to build interest and suspense, plant a
seed in the reader's mind, provide a clue that will keep thereader turning the pages. Foreshadowing can be presented in dialogue, action, or description. It could be an omen or prophecy--a mirrorbreaking on the first page could presage bad luck, a prediction of a bad end for someone could come true. Foreshadowing might be one small detail or action, or a larger event, as long as it echoes through the plot or a character's development and fulfills itself.

Want to know more about this literary device? In his satiric essay on writing in the journal The Onion, John Grisham gives some good basic advice on foreshadowing.  Follow this link to learn and laugh.

Now That I've Learned About Foreshadowing

So, construct a story of 400 words or less that makes use of foreshadowing to advance the plot or develop a character, or both. Be sure that the foreshadowing comes early in the story and is seen to resolve itself in the end.

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In critiquing, point out the foreshadowing, tell us whether it was easy to see
and whether its promise or threat was carried out. Did the writer use the
device skillfully? Was it obvious or was it subtle?

 Some more writing prompts for you to try.

Writing Prompt: Back in the Day

 Writing Prompt: Back in the Day

 

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, use an older character's conversation with another individual to transition us between present and some time in the past when the character was in the prime of life. You should briefly ground us in your character's current condition¸ and then smoothly transition into a scene in the past - a time of particular importance in your character's youth.

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You might have an old pirate describing his or her days of glory to a recent recruit, an aged lawyer sharing a grueling court case with a reporter, a law officer reliving the takedown of a notorious criminal, a wartime veteran recalling a battle from years before. The possibilities are endless. 

Your goals are to perform a smooth transition, and to make us care about the character.

There's no need for the entire piece to be in dialog, unless you choose that approach.

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Critique:  In your critique, you might identify anything that strikes you – in a positive or negative way - about the contrast between old and young versions of the character. Did the transition work for you? If not, what might be done to improve it? Did the dialog and tale feel natural? Most importantly, did the character and the tale hold your interest? Would you want to read more?

 Some more writing prompts for you to try.

Writing Prompt: The Shadow Knows

 

 Writing Prompt: The Shadow Knows

 

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: Write a piece of no more than 400 words in which
a shadow or shadowing plays an important role. This could be
a character sketch, a flash piece, memoir, poem, or a start
on something longer.

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You may write anything that concerns 'a shadow,' but you
could start with one of the following:
* Is someone being "shadowed?" (i.e., followed)
* Does a character discover his "shadow" side, i.e., the dark side of his personality?
* Does someone live "in the shadows?" (e.g., is depressed, in
hiding, or under some constraint)
* Does someone live in the shadow of another person, e.g., son overshadowed by a  father?
* Does a character have a strong impact on others or situations, e.g., "cast a long shadow?"
* Does a 'shadowy character' figure importantly?
* Perhaps a shadow on an X-ray or a window curtain plays an important part.

Be creative and imaginative. Enjoy the exercise.

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Critique:  In your critique consider the writer's creative approach to the idea of the shadow. 

Is it fresh, unique, interesting?

What do you like about it? 

What works or doesn't?  

Could the idea be explored further? Could the author improve the piece?

How?

 Some more writing prompts for you to try.

Writing Prompt: Observing Behavior

 Writing Prompt: Observing Behavior

 

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 sketch in which we witness a character’s (or characters’) behavior from a distance. We are too far from the action to hear any dialogue. This is a sketch, a visual exercise. It’s the sort of thing you might do if you like to draw-- a quick observation of a character at an interesting moment.

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Some possible approaches to the exercise follow:

‘Bob came home mad!’ What do we see? Do we see him come in the door? What does he do? What is his face like? His body? Is this silent anger or an outburst. What do we learn about Bob? Can we tell what has triggered his anger?

Or let us watch someone trying to train a dog-- a puppy, an old dog, or a scary dog. Who is in charge? How can we tell? What do the actions we observe tell us about the human and the dog?

Or let us watch a child go to a new school. We can be with her as she approaches the building, goes in, walks down the hall looking for the right room. Does she hesitate? Do we get the feeling that she is brave or scared? What do we see when she enters the classroom? How old is she? What grade is she in? Try to tell us visually.

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Critique: In critiquing this exercise let the author know how well you can ‘see’ the character and situation via the verbal sketch. What details bring the scene to life or give it depth? Does the observation tell a story? Do we understand what’s happening? Does the sketch make you want to know more about this character(s)? Could the piece be improved? If so, how? 

Some more writing prompts for you to try.

 Writing Prompt: Alien Encounter

 

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, create a scene where your character encounters something completely outside his or her frame of reference. The experience may force the character to reevaluate prior beliefs or assumptions.

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Imagine how your character might feel upon encountering a 10-foot Kodiak bear face-to-face. A young child meeting someone with a severe medical condition, or watching an unusual animal for the first time. Someone's response to an initial view of the Grand Canyon. A hunter's first kill. A soldier's first taste of battle. A mortician's assistant on the first day of employment.

Help us to feel the character's range of emotions in assimilating the new experience: wonder, awe, fear, amusement, disgust, what have you.

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Critique: In your critique, tell the author whether the description was such that you could visualize the scene and experience the character's emotions. If the scene fell short, be sure to tell the author what could be improved.

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 Some more writing prompts for you to try.

 Writing Prompt: The Other Side Of the Story (v. 2)

 

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, rewrite a scene from a story familiar to most of us from the point of view ofsomeone other than the main character. Tell us the name of the story you have chosen and who your viewpoint character is, and then show us what is different about the way that character sees the action and personalities involved.

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Every character in a story, from the main character right down to the dog, has a reason for being included, a reason for his or her actions, a point of view. Yes, some characters are just part of the machinery of the plot--the butler announcing the arrival of the Duke. But once that butler gets back to his pantry and starts gossiping with the housekeeper, he becomes part of the story, and we get a different perspective on what's going on in the house.  The way all of the characters interact, the way each one views the action, deepens and enlivens the story.  In the best stories, the characters, good and bad, act for clear reasons, their  interactions providing the conflict and narrative tension that makes for a good read.

Some examples:

How might Rhett Butler or Melanie Wilkes see Scarlet O'Hara in Gone with the Wind?

See Stephen King's Cujo, where we watch the thoughts of a dog as he goes mad.

What would the wolf have to say about Little Red Riding Hood?

Some writers have already rewritten a known work from another point of view. Tom Stoppard, in Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead, showed us Hamlet through the eyes of two minor characters.

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When critiquing, consider whether we gain new insight into a familiar tale (the characters, their motivations, the twists of plot) by experiencing it through a different sensibility. Why does this  supporting character's point of view matter? Would this constitute a whole new telling of the story?

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 Some more writing prompts for you to try.

 

 Writing Prompt: Generation Gap

 

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 scene involving two characters related to one another by birth or marriage, one more than 75 years old, the other at least 25 years younger.

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The characters may be almost anyone: mother and daughter,  grandfather and granddaughter, first cousins or siblings, uncle and nephew, even wife and husband. Don't tell us their ages--let them show us.

The setting may be a family residence, a nursing home, a golf course, a kitchen, a prison, anywhere.   They may be meeting after a long separation, or they may live  together and associate with each other daily. See if you can give us an idea of their previous attitudes toward each other--loving, hostile, or something else--and explore the emotions generated during this meeting.

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Exercise: In 400 words or less, write a scene involving two characters related to one another by birth or marriage, one more than 75 years old, the other at least 25 years younger.

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Critique: Do the characters ring true? Does their dialogue seem  lifelike? Is the scene properly set? Consider all aspects of the  writing.

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 Some more writing prompts for you to try.

 

 Writing Prompt: Love/Hate at First Sight

 

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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In 400 words or less describe someone falling in love or hate at first sight with a person, place or thing.

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An ideal situation to explore this idea would be a blind date, but don’t confine yourself to thinking of infatuation only in terms of romance, it’s a very broad experience. People fall in love at first sight with cars, houses, puppies, cities, all sorts of things. On the other hand, they can also take an instant and often irrational dislike to something.

Show us love at first sight with someone glimpsing what seems to be the long-awaited ideal mate or car or house; or someone finding exactly the right shoes or power drill in a shop window; or anyone falling hard for a cottage in the woods or a big, shiny motorcycle. The object of infatuation can be almost anything someone has never had and always wanted, especially anything that the character thinks would change his/her life if possessed.

Or, conversely, develop a character who instantly hates someone or something: takes an instant dislike to a seatmate on a long flight; bites into some unfamiliar food and has to resist spitting it out (or not); or comes out from under the bandages after cosmetic surgery and hates what he/she sees.

Show the emotional mechanism of first-sight infatuation. Show us how the character feels just before it happens, and then show us how he or she looks and acts upon discovering this object/person. Or let us see this character’s reaction through a third person’s eyes. Show us whether the character is satisfied or disappointed when he gets or gets near the object of his infatuation?

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When critiquing an author’s efforts, consider the effectiveness of the opening. Do we see the character reacting--stunned, delighted, frightened, overwhelmed by either desire or disgust when he or she espies the object? Would you read on to find out what happens? Don’t forget to tell the writer about any grammatical or structural issues you may notice.

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 Writing Prompt: Stereotypes (Version 3)

 

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 scene in which a character sees another as a
stereotype. Make that character realize the error when the true nature of the person
judged unfolds.

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People naturally categorize people, places, things and events in their minds. This
helps us organize, remember, and make use of our experience. We all develop rules
to help us react rapidly when we need to. A flashing red light means danger; we
know that, so we can react instantly, almost without thought.

But applying labels to people and expecting certain behaviors without considering
their individual characteristics can produce tragedy or injustice. Stereotyping can
affect our level of trust in a person. Many stereotypes are negative; they can lead to
assumptions and misconceptions that are unfair or simply inaccurate. This kind of
mistake often happens when people are judged on the basis of race, sex, religion, or
some other characteristic shared by a large group, rather than on their own
behavior.

A good example of a stereotype is Boo Radley in the novel *To Kill a Mockingbird*.
Scout and her brother have built up a particular idea of him from his appearance
and gossip they have heard. His true nature is revealed when he rescues Scout and
becomes a family friend and quiet hero. Incidents in which timid women turn out to
be brave, or braggarts fail to make good on their promises, are common in literature.

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In your critiques, note the effectiveness of the stereotype developed, and comment on
the writer's success in showing the required reversal. Consider, as always, the setting
and the quality of the writing.

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 Writing Prompt: It's A Crime!

 

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 scene with at least two characters and a crime in progress. Give a clear idea of the place and time, what kind of crime it is, who is committing it and what happens. This exercise is all about suspense and action.

You can write about any kind of crime:
- a bank robbery
- a convenience store stick up
- white collar crime - the accountant juggling the books
- political crime - payoffs and manipulation
- corporate crime destroying lives with toxic waste or
. dangerous products
- even petty crime like lifting a candy bar from the
. display at the news stand.

Is the perpetrator sympathetic, perhaps committing the crime for what he thinks is a good reason? Or, is he or she an out and out scoundrel? Does he get away with it, or does someone sound the alarm, is he discovered in the act, does he run, is he caught? You needn't write a novel, but these general ideas that might spark your imagination.
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In your critique, consider whether the scene grabs you, whether the action moves the scene along, whether the suspense is killing you, what you think of the perpetrator and victims. Would you want to read more?

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