The Time Is Now: Writing Prompts and Exercises
Write a poem about the pains and pleasures of cold weather, a short story that brings together an unexpected series of events, or an essay that contemplates companionship.
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Write a poem about the pains and pleasures of cold weather, a short story that brings together an unexpected series of events, or an essay that contemplates companionship.
Write three poems in the form of letters addressed to parents, grandparents, and an emotion; a fiction story set during holiday festivities; or a list essay about gratitude and expectation.
The author of Martha Moody recalls the challenge of finding language to describe her body.
Write a poem considering what you see without focusing on its meaning, a short story based on a mysterious occurrence, or an essay about your New Year’s traditions.
A new initiative from the organizers of National Novel Writing Month invites writers to find comfort in their creativity and stay inside while the battle with COVID-19 continues.
Emma Copley Eisenberg borrows a creative exercise from beloved writer and comics artist Lynda Barry.
Emma Copley Eisenberg remembers her introduction to the tarot and shares how the cards became an integral part of her writing process.
Write a poem attempting to find meaning in visual artifacts, a short story about a world in which memories can be manipulated, or a nonfiction piece about the season’s soundscape.
Write a poem exploring the idea of slipping into another’s skin, a story inspired by your school days, or an essay that attempts to decipher a deeper meaning in a piece of literature—three prompts to get you started.
Write a poem that uses illogical language, a short story inspired by a historical figure’s words, or an essay based on a photo—three prompts to get you started.