Literary – May 9

“The best moments in reading are when you come across something — a thought, a feeling, a way of looking at things — which you had thought special and particular to you. And now, here it is, set down by someone else, a person you have never met, someone even who is long dead. And it is as if a hand has come out, and taken yours.” -Alan Bennett, born this date in 1934, in History Boys....

Journaling + Fiction – May 9

I love you as certain dark things are to be loved,in secret, between the shadow and the soul.Pablo Neruda Journal prompt: Spend at least 20 minutes writing about a person or thing you love but other people cannot or would not understand. Fiction writing prompt: Write a scene in which your protagonist must confront a person s/he loves but doesn’t much like about the behavior that creates the...

Big Questions – May 9

What’s the most rewarding thing you’ve done while alone? Journaling prompt: Spend 15-20 minutes writing your answer in the spirit of exploring yourself and the world around you. If you can answer with a simple “yes” or “no,” explain the sources or implications of your response. Fiction writing prompt: Write a scene that forces a character in your story to answer the question, or spend 15-20 minutes...

Romance – May 9

“The moment you doubt whether you can fly, you cease for ever to be able to do it.” -J.M. Barrie, born this date in 1860. Writing prompt: Write a scene in which your protagonist realizes that someone in whom s/he has a romantic interest will never grow up.

Mystery – May 9

John Brown was born on this date in 1800. Writing prompt: Write a scene in which your protagonist must punish someone for doing the right thing.

SciFi/Fantasy – May 9

“Never ascribe to an opponent motives meaner than your own.”- Sir James Matthew Barrie, born this date in 1860. Writing prompt: Write a scene in which your protagonist realizes her/his antagonist’s motives are more noble than your protagonist’s.

Secondary – May 9

On this date in 1961, speaking to the National Association of Broadcasters, newly appointed chairman of the Federal Communications Commission Newton Minow said television was “a vast wasteland.” Describe your opinion of Minow’s opinion.

Primary – May 9

Peter Pan author JM Barrie was born on this date in 1860. He once wrote, “I’m not young enough to know everything.” Explain why you think JM Barrie was correct or confused.