June 19, 2014.  Prompt #49

Today’s prompt may take you to places unknown.

Have a marvelous journey.

 

 

Instructions

1. Do you have a collection of old travel postcards?  If so, choose one for this prompt.
2. If not, in Google image, Flickr, or another image search, type “travel postcards.” Choose a postcard image from it.
3. Write down thoughts and sensations inspired by the postcard. Write for 10 minutes.
4. Rewrite your last line on the top of a new page. Write for 15 minutes.

Further Writing

• Postcards are known for limited space.  Write a haiku elicited by the postcard.
• Imagine you sent this postcard. What would you have written on the back? Who would you have sent it to? What would you have told them to console them, to lure them, or to make them jealous?

Variations for Writing Groups

1. Postcards often offer a candy-coated version of what they depict. Write a short prose piece (200 words or less) either building on this lie or debunking it. Start the piece with three adjectives in a row.
2. Bring a postcard to your group and have everyone write a poem or short prose piece based on it. Write for 10 minutes.
3. Share your work. Do common themes emerge?
4. Repeat the prompt with another postcard.

Next Week

Two of next week’s prompts will focus on editing and revision.  To prepare, find a story, poem, or essay to revisit.  You can use a rough draft or a polished piece with which you are willing to experiment.