June 10, 2014. Prompt #41
When I left work tonight, I came across a group of folk dancers in the plaza next to my office. They were learning the “Champs Elysees” line dance. The old-school music, the French lyrics, and the dusky setting combined for an unexpected summer moments: a mix of happiness and wistfulness, connection and separation. Unfortunately, I can’t load the video onto this post, only this screen capture. (To get some sense of the music, click this link.)
Instructions
- Think of (or make up) a time that you encountered something unexpected. Write about how it changed the moment, the day, or something more for you.
- Describe your emotional and physical state before, then during, then after the event.
- Write for 15 minutes.
Further Writing
- Write about participating, either enthusiastically or reluctantly, in a group event such as a folk dance, pick-up basketball game, or religious service. Write for 15 minutes.
- Write about a summer night when you felt connected to others around or one when you felt far apart. Write for 20 minutes.
Variation for Writing Groups
- Write down song lyrics that feel like a “sound track” of summer and share it with the group. If possible, bring a recording of the song to your writing group.
- Share the lyrics or play the song for the group as members write their impressions and associations as they listen to the music.
- Repeat the prompt with other songs/lyrics from other group members.
- Write for 20 minutes.
