Set aside between 30 minutes to an hour to work on this session. Be sure to check out how to create a character and write them into scenarios before you begin this lesson. Some of these writing ideas have been inspired by others online, creative writing books, and past writing classes. Some are original. Now they are yours.
Begin: 2 minutes
Start with a stream of consciousness.
Set a timer for 2 minutes, put your pen to paper (or fingers to keys) and start writing. Don’t stop until the timer goes off. For more info on stream of consciousness, click here.
Writing Exercise: 10-15 minutes
Choose a character or someone from your personal life. Write a list, with each bullet beginning with “He is,” “She is,” or “They are.” Be as vague or specific as you’d like. Throw in a few similes or metaphors.
Examples:
- She is a judgmental houseguest, glaring down each dusty surface.
- He is as warm and inviting as a freshly-made apple pie.
Writing Prompt: 15-20 minutes
Pick a random relationship pairing from this list.
Write a scene with two characters who fit into that relationship pairing.
A few options:
- Your characters meet for the first time.
- One character sees the other’s true colors.
- An argument is settled between them.
- One is emotional while the other is not.
- Flashback to an old memory of them.
Finished!
If you feel inspired to share your writing from this session, please comment below, or link to your own website. I’d love to read what you’ve come up with!
Check out these other creative writing exercises and prompts:
- Creating a character
- Bringing your character to life
- Digging deeper into your character
- Dealing with characters’ emotions
- Facing fears head on
- Putting the pieces together
Happy writing!
Love, Emma
The Train Ride Home 