#72: Shocking Developments
Have you ever heard that there are only so many types of stories in the world? Some people say seven, some say three, some six… Regardless of the number, the idea is that you can boil down any narrative into universal templates.
While it’s true that many stories do follow familiar structures (and understanding them can help you learn how to craft a compelling narrative), there’s so much variety in how those structures unfold that the best stories still feel fresh and original.
One of the ways writers manage this is by filling their stories with unexpected details — so this week, our prompts are all about characters finding themselves in situations they’d never have imagined. But to really get something unique, don’t stop there: ask yourself what would happen if your characters made each of the possible choices before them, then write the one that surprised you the most!
This week's prompts
Stories
“Stolen Heart” by Biaral Kahn
Submitted to Contest #72
“Some Kind Of Bird ” by Marion Donnellier
Submitted to Contest #72
“Doggone Good” by Ramona Scarborough
Submitted to Contest #72
“A Successful Joke ” by Hannah Phipps
Submitted to Contest #72
“Dream Job” by Monica Chaddick
Submitted to Contest #72
“Invisable to Light” by Ruth Major
Submitted to Contest #72
“A Mother Provides for her Child” by Elliot G
Submitted to Contest #72
“You Can't Take It With You” by Greg Gillis
Submitted to Contest #72
“THE MARATHON” by Patricia Green
Submitted to Contest #72
“Sunshine-Yellow” by Isaac Murphy
Submitted to Contest #72
“What will? Who will?” by Colin Devonshire
Submitted to Contest #72
“My Sicilian Roots” by Lavinia Hughes
Submitted to Contest #72
“Inheritance” by Kristin McAllister
Submitted to Contest #72
“Take A Chance” by Estelle Westley
Submitted to Contest #72
$50
Prize money
687
Contest entries
0
Stories
Ended on 23:59 - Dec 18, 2020 EST
Won by Julie Ward 🏆
Title: Currents
Submissions must be between 1,000 - 3,000 words and will be approved and published on Reedsy Prompts within 7 days of the contest closing.
Read the full terms & conditions or check out the FAQ if you have any questions!