Post #16 – Women’s Memoirs, Writing Prompt – Kendra Bonnett and Matilda Butler
Written by: Promptly Portland
I live across the street from a fire station. When I moved to Portland and found this house for rent, I was worried that my sleep would be disrupted frequently when the shiny, red fire trucks roared out into the night, bells clanging, ready to save a home and the people inside. Their job is worthy, but I need my sleep.
Before turning down this cute little house, I asked about the nocturnal habits of the fire station. I was pleasantly surprised to learn that the trucks don’t put on their sirens until they are at least three blocks away. Talk about being a good neighbor.
Well, all of this discussion of middle of the night disruptions got me thinking. Yes, thinking about a writing prompt. Now you won’t want to do this often, but I think you should give it a try at least once.
500 Words (or More): Memoir Writing Prompt #6
Easier Version: Put your journal or even several pieces of paper and your pen next to your bed.
Before you go to bed, think about a story that you want to write. As you are lying in bed, don’t count sheep. Think about your story or vignette. Think about a title for it. Think about an opening. Think about the fullness (from beginning to end) of what you want to write. Then fall asleep.
As soon as you awaken, sit up in bed and reach for your writing paper. Write the story as it comes out. Your mind has been working on this story during the night. You may be surprised by what you write.
Did the title change? Did your opening change? Did new memories reveal themselves that you hadn’t considered when you fell asleep?
This is just one way to prepare your mind for writing.
Harder Version: This begins the same way but is definitely harder to do. Start by putting your journal or writing paper and pen next to your bed.
(Note: This next part is also the same as above.) Before you go to bed, think about a story that you want to write. As you are lying in bed, don’t count sheep. Think about this story or vignette. Think about a title for it. Think about an opening. Think about the fullness (from beginning to end) of what you want to write. Then fall asleep.
Now comes the hard part. Set your alarm for 4:30 AM. I know, you think I’m nuts. But, if you are the kind of person who can get up early, I urge you to give this a try. The world outside is quiet. The day’s responsibilities seem to be in the distant future. As soon as the alarm rings, turn it off, turn on the light, and reach for your paper. Don’t even take time to make yourself a cup of tea (green is my personal favorite) or coffee. Just start writing. Let your story flow out.
After you have finished, ask yourself the same questions mentioned above. Did the title change? Did your opening change? Did new memories reveal themselves that you hadn’t considered when you fell asleep?
Whenever you want to write, let your mind do some of the work while you sleep.
Until next time,
-Promptly Portland
