I think the most striking statistic about Hurricane Irene so far is CNN’s statement that the storm will affect 1 in 6 Americans. (I’m still trying to wrap my head around this.) We are far away from the danger; might get some wind and a little rain. We’re used to losing power frequently, so that’s not a problem. I sure hope those of you who are in Irene’s path stay safe, snug, and dry.
image credit Associated Press
In case your power is about to go out, let’s get busy right away with tonight’s Irene-inspired prompt.
Ready… Make sure that you pack a notebook (the kind made out of paper) and sharpened pencils in your go bag. Natural disasters provide all kinds of inspiration and you need your tools! (It’s easier to write in the rain with pencils than pens.)
Set… “To describe my mother would be to write about a hurricane in its perfect power.” Maya Angelou
Today’s prompt: Your character has five minutes to throw his most important possessions into a backpack, because the hurricane has changed course and he and his family must flee. What goes in the bag? Why? And what is hidden in that small wooden box that he pulls down from the top shelf of his closet when no one is looking? Be as detailed as possible. This is a chance to show character by the decisions he makes.
Scribble… Scribble… Scribble…
Good exercise. I remember having to do one somewhat like this for my Creative Writing courses. Thanks.
I love this! What a great idea! I normally use a pen and blank drawing journal to draft my ideas, stories and sketches. What’s your favorite non-digital tool? I found my favorite pen couldn’t keep up with me this month and had to search for another. Sometime I guess I’ll have to glue the stories together on the computer. Until then… my journal is a great deal more portable and reliable. It’s even porch-swing friendly!
I second the wishes – hope all are safe and dry on the coast.
Jan
And what is hidden in that small wooden box that he pulls down from the top shelf of his closet when no one is looking?
That manuscript he’s finally going to finish.
I am a day late on the prompt – but love it. I’ve had to evacuate becuase of a hurricane – very hard to choose what to take. I made sure to grab my kids and pets 🙂 and then grabbed my coveted scrapbooks. Of course, didn’t forget the pen and paper and my head lamp.
omg we re all gonna die