Tag: writingprompt

A Little Writerly Life Update

~ Brooke F. ~ Leave a comment

Tennessee weather is so unpredictable. Last week there was a chance of snow, this week it feels mid fall. Not that I’m complaining about the 60-70-ish degree weather. It’s a rather nice break from the grey I’ve been dealing with most of January.

It’s weird to think that it’s already almost March. 2023 felt like it ended just yesterday and suddenly we’re almost 3 months in. I hear that’s a sign you’re getting old but if that’s true, then please don’t tell me and allow me to live in blissful, timeless ignorance.

Hope you all have been doing well and that 2024 (that year still doesn’t feel real) is treating you well! I just thought it would be fun to do a nice little writerly life update seeing as I have a few matters to discuss and update the wide web on. I know you’re all waiting with baited breath.

First order of business, I’ve been working on a chapbook! It’s been in the making since last fall semester of 2023 and I finally am pulling all the pieces together. It’s a combination of everything I enjoy- poetry, science, stainglass windows, and angsty little musings about how I’ve poured money into an education and yet, on the cusp of my senior year, I still feel clueless. Yaknow. The standard stuff. A little sneak peak page can be seen below:

I hope to enter a chapbook contest and submit it for online publishing but we’ll see where this little project takes me. It was loads of fun to work on and I can’t wait to see what I end up doing with it whether its publish it or set it on fire. What matters is I am essentially done!

Second order of business, I am taking all writing classes this semester! I just need to finish up my silly little writing minor so I’m taking The Creative Market Place as well as Short stories and Fiction. Oh, and walking. Yes, I am taking a walking class. I needed the credit.

The Creative Market Place is a cool class where I get a little bit more insight on the business side of being a writer. We recently finished up a peer review workshop where we critiqued each other’s papers and reviewed books. Generally workshops can be a source of stress because I want to sit down and write a thorough and extensive feedback paper for each piece but, alas, time is not always on my side. Not to mention the fun of sharing your work to a class room. I was surprised to find that, ironically, sharing my overly angsty, corny poems doesn’t bother me in a class room setting but writing something semi-professional is. I think I just have to try extra hard to be professional and the poetry thing is just kind of fun. So when my professional review sucks, that’s a little more of a blow to my writer ego (something’s gotta keep it in check).

Short stories in fiction is both wonderful and awful. I’m having to fight against my long-winded tendency to describe everything in a room and what every single skin cell looks like on a character. I blame my consumption of Tolkien literature I think.

Final order of business, I am figuring out what I am doing with my life. This has proved to be a most arduous task and I still haven’t quite completed it. Most days I find myself torn between the two moods of “Yay! I’m almost done with school!” and “Oh no, I’m almost done with school!”. I’m not entirely sure what the future has in store for me with a bio degree and a creative writing minor. I am not entirely certain whether this writing thing will just be a brainless little hobby that I do when come home from a long day working at a lab or if it will actually be a part of my professional life. I guess it’s just whatever doors God chooses to open. So, with this in mind, I’m trying not to spontaneously melt from the stress. I know it’ll all turn out alright. All my college seniors out there know the feeling I’m sure.

And that’s it! Or all the important stuff at any rate. Thanks for taking the time to read my existential crisis about my quickly approaching future. Feel free to share any anxiety tips in the comments below and take care!

Nature, Childhood, and Brood

~ Brooke F. ~ Leave a comment

Childhood. It is something that is near all our hearts. I am sure many of us can recall summers spent outdoors. Bare are feet skimming the soft grass. The scent of freshly cut grass. The distant hum of cicadas. Fireflies blinking and winking at us from the dark. Fresh air that zips past us as we run and play and enjoy nature and childhood freedom.

Nature and childhood is often something that is connected in our minds, whether we realize it or not. It is this connection that Kimiko Hahn taps into in her chapbook titled “Brood”.  She explores this connection through a series of poems giving us a full sense of her childhood and nostalgia.

Hahn is a seasoned poet who is the author of a whopping 10 poetry books. This includes but it not limited to Foreign Bodies (W. W. Norton, 2020), Brain Fever (Norton, 2014), Toxic Flora (Norton, 2010), The Unbearable Heart (Kaya, 1996) which was the winner of the American Book Award, and Earshot (Hanging Loose Press, 1992), winner of the Theodore Roethke Memorial Poetry Prize and an Association of Asian American Studies Literature Award. Science and nature are common themes in her work and this chapbook is no exception when it comes to this.

Hahn grew up in New York and Tokyo. It makes one wonder if these urban backdrops caused her mind to wonder to what little nature there was in her childhood. Her chapbook “Brood” even opens with a little snapshot of a Damselfly caught in a web.

“When you spot a damselfly

Caught in a spider’s thread

Blow gently…”

Early on, Hahn draws our attention to the delicate and intricacies of nature. But, these pictures are also contrasted with humanity and the modern. One such poem titled “Folding Fan Advertising Kikkoman Soy Sauce” exemplifies this while also introducing us to a memory and a person who has passed.

“My kindergarten handprint in clay! Pearls! But you never belonged to me. I’m not sure I care, odd ephemera in the debris of my father’s home.”

She does the same in the following poem titled “Noise”.

“The neighbors teething baby wails, a grating cranks shut, a woman calls out, a man shouts back, the sanitation truck pulls to the curb with engine, men, and suction…”

Overall, this contrast between nature and the modern creates a well-rounded experience as Hahn delves into feelings of loss, nostalgia, and family. Hahn masterfully weaves these thoughts and ideas together to give us a colorful picture of childhood and her specific upraising. It is just a small peak as the works are often brief, but they are rich with vivid imagery and beautiful scenes that pull us in from the first sentence.

Pssst! Hey! Thanks for reading! This post is a bit different from my usual blog posts but I read this chapbook and did a review on it for school so I wanted to share. I not only got to pick the book but I found it was fun to share my thoughts. If you’re into poetry, definitely check out Kimiko’s work!

Why I Write

~ Brooke F. ~ 7 Comments

For school, I was tasked for reading a great many number of essays on a singular topic: “Why I Write”. These readings included “Why I Write” by George Orwell, “Why I Write” by Joan Didion, “Why I Write” by Terry Williams, “Why Write” by Paul Austers, “Why I Write” by Reginald Shepherd. Turns out, writers are very concerned about tackling this question and rightly so. Burn-out is a common term used in writing spaces and for good reason. It besets you quickly when you least expect it. Why? Who knows, the answer is rarely the same from person to person. Then there is the whole conundrum of “how so I get out of this head space?”. Turns out, defining your motivations and why you do this whole writing schtick is one good way to get out of this swirling mental blackhole. And so, I created my own “Why I Write” constitution/statement of my own. While this was indeed a school assignment, I still would love to share it. This exercise was unexpectedly cathartic and I definitely recommend you give it a shot if you ever find yourself in a flurry of self doubt and find yourself asking, “Why am I doing this again?”.

I’ve included the video version (created by yours truly) and the essay itself in case you don’t feel like watching my mini-movie filmed on a my old-as-dirt ipad (edited with imovie of course). I won’t be (that) offended, I promise.

The Video:

The Essay:

Why I Write

By Brooke Freeman

I write for a great many number of reasons as do most people I think. Strangely enough, I made a list back in middle school of this very thing. At the tender age of 12, I found that sometimes I didn’t want to work on my story. And so, I made a master list of writing motivation. I dug it up for this question and have been pleasantly surprised that the reasons still very much ring true.

I’m going to share this list with you now in its true form, complete with the starry 2014 bulleted points I had copy-and-pasted from the internet because I could never figure out how to make special characters myself. I will also elaborate on how each reason is true to me to this very day. It’s nice to know that, if anything, I’m consistent.

★ The feeling of reaching that plot twist

As a kid, I posted to a lot of kid targeted writing chat boards. These boards have long since shut down but in this little internet space, I found an audience. Other kids, like me, who loved writing and loved reading. From early on, I found the joy of writing something unexpected and the reaction of those who read it. Even now, this is a process I still find myself taking joy in. Really it’s the community created in such moments that I find myself coming back to.

★Getting to write that scene.

The scene that pictured in all it’s glory. Perhaps the very scene that got me writing the story in the first place to write up to. My chance to drop that one-liner that my young self thought was oh-so-clever. And yet I still do this now. A dynamic captures my fancy. A scene springs to life vividly in my head and I need to write it. And then I build the world around it.

★Improving your writing ability

Improvement is a strange thing. I never felt like I was improving until I figured out that it often takes the form of reading one’s past work and cringing. This is something that is even more accurate now that I’m in college as I find myself cringing a lot at whatever work I pumped out in high school. And yet I don’t hate it. You don’t hate a time capsule because it’s old and outdated. You marvel at it and all the trinkets inside. And then you think about how much has changed, most of it for the better.

★Making your thoughts more cohesive.

That feeling of seeing a project come together is unmatched. I tasted it as a middle-schooler and thought “wow, that’s pretty neat to see how it ties together”. But as life has gotten messier and my thoughts and brain even more so, I think this reason has become more and more prevalent for me.

★Holding your published book in your hands.

I want to hold my words in printed form. Not that that gives them any more importance, but I am drawn to the physical space that words can take up when they’re printed. They’re beautiful as well as accessible.

★The aesthetic of the writing life is impeccable. Drink some tea, type away on a rainy day- indulge in it.

Pompous and shallow as it may sound, writing feels important while you’re doing it. It feels whimsical and sometimes even mysterious. It’s easy to romanticize. Not that you should believe yourself any better than those around you but there should be a certain amount of joy you should take in your writing work. I write because I love doing it. I indulge in it.

★Hearing from other people who have been touched by your work.

And here we are back at community. It has been a big driving force for me as I continue onward on my writing journey. From 12 years old to present, I loved the connection I got from my work. I had no promise back then that my writing would make it big or make an enormous, uncompromising difference. But maybe it did to a fellow 12-year-old browsing a writing message board. It did for me after all.

But I don’t think it’s sufficient to leave it here. Yes, these reasons are still accurate but they are no longer the full extent as to why I write. I think it would be an indicator of lack of growth within the last 10 years to no add to this list by quite a margin.

I am finding in my 20’s that I write because I love. I can end the sentence there as cliché as I’m sure it sounds. But I won’t.

I write because I love so many things. I love peeling oranges on my front apartment steps. Write because I love petting cats that never belong to me but begrudgingly accepts my affection. I love rain, birds, cathedrals, breakfast, coffee, stars, journals that are empty, journals that are filled, cattle on grass, autumn, pancakes, skeletons, tacos, photos, brown eyes, blue eyes, my mother, my sisters, my brother, and my father. I write because I love.

And finally, I write because God has been kind enough (or cruel enough), to put words in inside of me. Then he allowed me to be fed on a steady diet of books. All kinds of books too. Apologia Science textbooks, The Magic Treehouse books, Narnia, Little house on the prairie, Nacy Drew, The Magic Thief, Lord of the Rings, Calvin and Hobbes just to name a few really important ones. I was fed until I was swollen with words and ideas. Then I was handed a pen and paper-or should I say a laptop with a slow internet connection, a pinball game, and a writing program. Then later a typewriter marked down to $50 at a thrift store. Then an actual laptop. Now it’s a Journal. Paper cradled in Leather.

I write because I am overwhelmed by everything it feels like. Some mornings I feel it more deeply than others. And when I do, I crack open my journal or open up my delipidated laptop. And then I write.

Playlists I’ve been playing on Loop

~ Brooke F. ~ 1 Comment

Music has the remarkable ability to set the mood for any creative endeavor. Whether you’re crafting an intense action scene or a poignant love letter, the right musical backdrop can transport you to the emotional landscape you wish to convey. The beat, rhythm, and melody become the heartbeat of your writing, infusing it with the desired atmosphere.

But I’m sure you already know that. My core audience is writers and we love a good backdrop to day dream to. So, I thought it would be fun to share writing playlists that I’ve been playing on repeat because they provide the perfect atmosphere for whatever I’m working on.

This Gremlincore playlist sets a sort of carefree and quirky vibe. I sometimes just put it on when I’m cooking- I don’t have to be writing. It feels like walking through a forest. I feels like catching lightning bugs. It feels like- I need to be paying more attention to whatever I’m doing. I’ve only gotten three words into my story and I’m already distracted by the immaculate atmosphere this playlist creates.

However, one little side note, if you don’t listen to anything else on this playlist, please check out the “Tardigrade Song” by cosmo sheldrake. It is an immaculate work of scientifically accurate art.

Yeaaaah, it’s no secret I’m a very distracted writer these days. But guess what! Music can help with that too! For many writers, creating a zone of focus is crucial if you’re going to get anything done. Music that is instrumental or ambient genres can act as a sort of shield against the distractions that my brain can conjure up. The rhythmic patterns and soothing melodies serve as a buffer, helping me to immerse myself in their work and maintain a steady flow of ideas. Or at least that’s the hope. This playlist particularly has helped me get quite a few writing assignments done as of late so maybe check it out.

Creating the perfect ambiance for writing involves a delicate balance of sounds that can transport you to a mental space conducive to creativity. Ambient noises and curated playlists can play a pivotal role in setting the tone for your writing environment. The subtle hum of raindrops, the distant chirping of birds, or the calming rustle of leaves—these ambient sounds can transform your workspace into a haven for inspiration…..

….. orrrrrr maybe you just wanna feel like a weary traveler trying to furiously write in a rambunctious tavern. When it comes to ambient noises, I tend to go for fantasy settings especially. I just want to feel like something is going on around me and ambient noises greatly help with this craving. I think it may be a partial side effect of living in a house with siblings growing up and having to get some writing or project done nonetheless.

Don’t mind me living out my Barbie’s 12 Dancing Princesses fantasy over here. This playlist is PERFECT for that or perhaps to be the backdrop of any regency/royal story you’re writing. It’s whimsical, magical, dreamlike- all the good things. Check it out if you’re delusional like me and am still living out that princess fantasy.

Aaaaand I think that just about does it! And now I shall attempt to wrap up this silly little sunday blog post of mine!

Ahem!

The joy of crafting creativity lies not only in the words we put on paper but also in the environment we cultivate. The subtle interplay between ambient noises and curated playlists enhances the writing experience, making it more enjoyable AND immersive. Remember, it’s about the journey NOT the destination. (or some drivel like that. Insert dramatic pause here so you have time to let that profound knowledge sink in).

So, the next time you embark on a writing adventure, consider the mood you desire to set. Whether you choose the gentle whispers of nature, that chatter of a tavern, or the curated tunes of a carefully crafted playlist, I hope the playlists I have shared can be a part of your fun little writing sessions. Happy writing!

How to Write a Good Short Story

~ Brooke F. ~ 4 Comments

Hey friends! Hope you’re doing well this evening. It’s chilly where I’m at and the roads are all iced over so I did college remotely today. It went well and I think I’m starting strong though it’s hard to say since I’ve only been able to attend one full day in person. The classes I’m in this semester are all writing classes since I’ve finished up all the science ones for my biology degree.

One class I’m taking this semester is known as Fiction and short stories. I’m taking this class for my creative writing minor (and for fun!) and because I’ve always struggled a bit with writing short stories. I have this awful habit of rabbit trailing and expanding where it is incredibly unnecessary. You can’t afford to do this in short stories especially. They kind of need to be…yaknow, short. It’s always been a struggle of mine. It’s actually rather intimidating to me to develop so much of a story in such a short amount of time.

This got me sort of thinking about all the elements that go into a strong short story. So, in the spirit of helping me figure out how I can write an effective short story myself, I decided to identify what exactly makes a GOOD short story.

˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊStart with a Strong Idea˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ

Begin with a clear and intriguing concept. A short story doesn’t have the luxury of extensive development as previously mentioned, so choose a focused and powerful idea.

˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊDevelop Memorable Characters˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ

Even in a short story, your characters should be distinct and memorable. Readers should connect with them or be intrigued by their qualities. Focus on their motivations and how they contribute to the plot.

˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊEstablish a Strong Setting˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ

Set the scene effectively. While you may not have room for extensive world-building, provide enough details to immerse readers in the story. Use sensory details to evoke a sense of place.

˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊCreate a Compelling Opening˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ

Grab your reader’s attention from the beginning. Open with a strong line, an intriguing situation, or a question that piques curiosity. The opening sets the tone for the entire story.

˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊMaintain a Clear Plot Structure˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ

Short stories typically have a simpler structure than novels, but they still require a clear beginning, middle, and end. Develop a plot with a distinct conflict and resolution. Also consider carefully the motivations at play in your tale and how such motivations conflict with each other.

˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊFocus on a Single Theme or Message˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ

Short stories are most effective when they have a central theme or message. Identify the core idea you want to convey and weave it into the narrative. Avoid trying to tackle too many themes in a short space. This can make your story seem scattered and unconnected.

˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊShow, Don’t Tell˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ

You’ve heard it a million times but I think it’s always worth reiterating. Don’t trick yourself into believing that you don’t have any time at ALL in a short story to provide clear imagery. Use vivid descriptions and action to show what’s happening rather than telling the reader. Engage the senses and create a visual and emotional experience.

˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊBuild Tension˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ

Since you have limited space, build tension efficiently. Create conflict early on and escalate it steadily, leading to a satisfying resolution. Tension keeps readers engaged. Ask yourself “what is pulling my reader forward to finish my piece?”

˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊCraft Dialogue Carefully˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ

Dialogue is a powerful tool in a short story. Make each line count, revealing character traits, advancing the plot, or adding atmosphere. Ensure that it feels natural and serves a purpose. You don’t have time to indulge in empty chatter between characters. Unless, of course, it’s in character (see Treebeard from The Lord of the Rings here. Though that reference may not be super accurate as The Lord of the Rings was hardly a short story.”

˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊConsider the Ending˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ

A short story’s ending should be impactful. It doesn’t necessarily have to be a twist, but it should leave a lasting impression. Consider the emotional resonance you want to achieve. What do you want to leave your readers with. What do you want them to think about upon your story’s end?

˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊEdit Ruthlessly˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ

Or kill your darlings or whatever. Given the limited space, every word should contribute to the story. During the editing process, be ruthless in cutting unnecessary elements. Ensure that each sentence serves a purpose. If you’re anything like me, this may feel a little painful. I make the mistake of feeling each line is precious to me. Unfortunately, this is not the case and some decisions must be made to further the conciseness of the story.

˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊSeek Feedback˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ

Share your short story with others and gather feedback. Other perspectives can provide valuable insights and help you identify areas that may need improvement.

Remember that brevity is key in a short story. Every element, from characters to plot points, should serve the overall narrative purpose. Experiment with different styles, voices, and themes to discover what works best for your story.

Phew. That was a lot. But I think making a concise list helped me work through what to focus on when writing for my class. Perhaps this list will help you too? Either way, thanks for taking the time to read! Thanks for stopping by!

Writing Space Decor Tips

~ Brooke F. ~ 1 Comment

I wrote a post about this awhile back called “Ways to Brighten up Your Writing Space” and while I do still like that post and think it’s useful, I do want to create a more broad post on how you can go about creating a space that’s really your own. While a list of specific items you could use to decorate your spice is nice, I wanted to take a little step back and talk about other strategies you could consider employing to make your writing atmosphere that much more inspiring.

Creating a writer’s bedroom or a cozy little writing space involves designing an area that fosters creativity, focus, and comfort. =So here are a few things for you to think about as your decorating it.

1. ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗Cozy Reading Nook:˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗

   – Design a comfortable reading corner with a plush chair or cozy bean bag, a soft throw blanket, and ample cushions. Add a small bookshelf or floating shelves for easy access to your favorite books.

2. ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗Inspiring Wall Art:˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗

   – Decorate the walls with motivational quotes, literary-themed prints, or artwork that inspires creativity. Consider a large chalkboard or corkboard for jotting down ideas, outlines, or favorite quotes.

3. ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊThink about your color Palettes: ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗

   – Choose a color scheme that promotes focus. Soft, neutral tones like beige, light gray, or muted blues and greens can create a calming atmosphere while bright, exciting colors like red and yellow may excite your brain into work mode. Pick whatever works for you.

4. ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗Personalized Bookshelves:˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗

   – Arrange your bookshelves in an organized and visually pleasing manner. Mix books with personal items, decorative pieces, and plants to add warmth and personality.

5. ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗Comfortable Writing Desk:˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗

   – Invest in a comfortable and functional writing desk. Make sure it’s spacious enough for your writing essentials, and consider a desk with drawers for extra storage.

6. ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗Task Lighting:˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗

   – Install adequate task lighting on or near the writing desk to reduce eye strain. Adjustable desk lamps or wall-mounted lights can provide focused illumination for your writing space.

7. ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗Candles or Essential Oil Diffusers:˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗

   – Create a calming atmosphere with scented candles or essential oil diffusers. Scents like lavender, eucalyptus, or citrus can enhance concentration and relaxation.

8. ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗Comfortable Bedding:˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗

   – Opt for soft and comfortable bedding to ensure a good night’s sleep. A cozy bed with plush pillows and a warm throw can also serve as an additional reading or writing space.

9. ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗Bulletin Board or Pinboard:˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗

   – Install a bulletin board or pinboard near your desk to display notes, outlines, and visual inspirations. This can help you stay organized and keep important information easily accessible.

10. ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗Soft Area Rug:˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗

    – Place a soft area rug near your writing desk or reading nook to add warmth and texture to the room. This can make the space more inviting and comfortable.

11. ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗Nature-Inspired Elements:˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗

    – Integrate natural elements into your decor, such as potted plants, succulents, or small indoor trees. Nature-inspired decor can promote a sense of tranquility and creativity.

12. ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗Wall-Mounted Shelves:˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗

    – Install wall-mounted shelves above the desk or beside the bed to save space and showcase your favorite books, writing tools, and decorative items.

13. ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗Personalized Art and Memorabilia:˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗

    – Display personal artwork, awards, or items that hold sentimental value. Surrounding yourself with meaningful objects can enhance your connection to the space.

14. ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗Ambient Lighting:˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗

    – Use ambient lighting, such as string lights or a soft pendant light, to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Dimmable lights can be adjusted to suit different moods and tasks.

15. ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗Noise-Canceling Elements:˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗

    – Consider adding noise-canceling elements like heavy curtains or a comfortable chair with sound-absorbing upholstery to create a quieter and more focused environment.

Remember to personalize the space with items that inspire you and make you feel comfortable. A writing space should be a retreat that encourages creativity and provides a peaceful sanctuary for your writing endeavors.

And What Are We Praying to?

~ Brooke F. ~ 1 Comment

“Stop worshipping answers,” the wise ones declare,
In the quiet of wisdom, breathe the open air.
For truth is a river, winding, untamed,
In the dance of questions, knowledge is named.

In the hush of the cosmos, where mysteries reside,
The seeker finds solace, on truth’s gentle tide.
Not in rigid doctrines or dogmas confined,
But in the ebb and flow of the curious mind.

Let queries unfurl like petals at dawn,
In the garden of wonder, where wisdom is drawn.
Each puzzle, a thread in the fabric of thought,
A tapestry woven, in questions, we’re taught.

The stars in their silence, the oceans profound,
Whisper the secrets that answers can’t sound.
For the essence of knowing is not in the end,
But the journey through questions, a lifelong friend.

So cease the relentless pursuit of the final,
Embrace the uncertainty, the enigma, the primal.
In the chapel of wonder, let questions be sung,
The hymn of the curious, forever young.

Writer’s Bucket List Inspiration

~ Brooke F. ~ 1 Comment

Creating a bucket list as a writer can be a wonderful way to set goals, and really challenge yourself as a writer. It can also push you to try different things that you wouldn’t otherwise which, overall, can help you hone your craft of word weaving! So, all that being said, I’ve come up with a few suggested writer’s bucket list items for inspiration. This list is good if you don’t know where to start when making your lofty writing goals.

1. Write a Novel

   Challenge yourself to complete a full-length novel, exploring a genre or theme you’re passionate about.

2. Attend a Writing Workshop or Retreat

   Immerse yourself in a writing workshop or retreat to learn from other experienced writers. You can also receive feedback, and connect with fellow creatives. This can also add to your sense of writing community and (as someone who has participated in a few workshops) motivate you to move forward with your creative endeavors knowing you have people cheering you on.

3. Visit a Literary Landmark

   Travel to a location with literary significance, whether it’s a famous author’s home, a library, or a setting from a beloved book.

4. Publish a Book

   Work towards getting your writing published, whether it’s through traditional publishing or self-publishing. Whatever floats your boat and fits with where you want to go with your work.

5. Participate in National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo)

   Join the annual challenge to write a 50,000-word novel in the month of November. Admittedly, I have not participated in this event as time hardly allows me to these days (especially in college) but I have high hopes of being able to one day!

6. Write a Short Story Collection

   Compile a collection of short stories, perhaps exploring different themes or genres or sticking with something specific so that all the stories relate in some regard.

7. Complete any Writing Challenge really

   Take on a writing challenge, like writing a 100-word story every day for a month, to enhance your creativity and discipline. These can be both fun and extremely rewarding as you get in a lot of writing practice.

8. Learn a New Writing Style or Genre

   Step out of your comfort zone and explore a writing style or genre you haven’t tried before.

9. Create a Writing Space

   Design a dedicated and inspiring writing space that encourages creativity and focus. My personal writing space that I hope to create one day is a small study or library of sorts. I would just love to have a whole room dedicated to reading and writing. Due to today’s economy however and the unfortunate tax bracket I occupy, this has not yet been doable for me but it’s still on the bucket list.

10. Collaborate on a Project

    Work with another writer, illustrator, or creator on a collaborative project, such as a graphic novel or multimedia storytelling.

11. Attend a Book Launch or Literary Event

    Experience the excitement of a book launch or attend a literary event to meet authors and fellow book enthusiasts. I recently went to the Southern Festival of books in Nashville and it was magical. The environment was nothing like any other festival I have attended. Truly, I was amongst my kin.

12. Become a Beta Reader

    Offer your feedback and insights by becoming a beta reader for other writers. It’s a great way to engage with different writing styles and stories.

13. Start a Writing Blog or Podcast

    Share your writing journey, tips, and experiences through a blog or podcast to connect with a broader audience. I personally find blogging to be my chosen medium of communication in this regard but definitely don’t limit yourself to that if you want to experiment with different mediums of communication.

14. Write a Letter to Your Favorite Author

    Express your appreciation by writing a heartfelt letter to an author who has inspired you (if they’re alive of course. Unfortunately, many of my favorite writers are not among us any more).

15. Complete a Creative Writing Course

   Enroll in a creative writing course to enhance your skills and gain new perspectives on storytelling.

16. Write and Perform a Spoken Word Piece

   Craft a powerful spoken word piece and share it at an open mic night or poetry slam. This can be prose or poetry- it’s up to you. I have done this thanks to one of my writing professors at my college and while the experience was a little terrifying (public speaking is NOT my forte), it was overall a wonderful experience and I did, in fact, live to tell the tale. Use me as proof that anyone can do this.

17. Create a Writing Portfolio

    Develop a professional writing portfolio showcasing your best work and accomplishments. This is not only good practice but could be useful for you in the future if you ever start submitting to literary journals or other publications.

18. Read the Classics

    Explore classic literature across genres and time periods to broaden your literary knowledge and horizons.

Remember, a writer’s bucket list is a personal journey, and you can customize it based on your interests, aspirations, and the writing experiences you wish to explore. I hope you’ve found this list inspiring or at least mildly entertaining. Good luck on wherever your writing adventure takes you! I’m sure you’re gonna do great!

Octopus Themed Writing Prompts

~ Brooke F. ~ 4 Comments

This may seem like an oddly specific writing prompt post but I’ve been sitting through a few lectures on marine biology in college and I can’t get enough of these guys. So, enjoy this weird post that indulges my new found fascination with Octopi.

★Magic and Ink

A sea witch makes a grave mistake in a spell and turns herself into an octopus. She must find a way to reverse this spell but must go on some sort of quest or journey of self-discovery to do so. She is delighted to find, however, in this form, each of her tentacle’s host a different kind of magic. You can take it from here.

★Escape from the Aquarium

Two octopuses, plan their daring escape from the aquarium where they’ve been held captive. Describe their elaborate scheme, the challenges they face, and the freedom they long for in the open sea.

★Inky’s Inkcredible Adventure

Inky, a small octopus has a flair for creativity. Instead of using his ink for defense, he finds he can write stories and create pictures. He is generally made fun of by the other octopi but his writing endeavors take him places he and the other octopi could only imagine.

★Eight-Legged Thief

In a coastal town, rumors circulate about a mysterious octopus that steals shiny objects from the docks. Write a story from the perspective of the octopus, revealing its motivations and the unsuspecting friendships it forms with the humans it “steals” from.

★DnD but with Octopuses basically

Picture a team of adventurous octopuses exploring the depths of the ocean in search of hidden treasures. Each octopus has a unique skill. What challenges do they encounter, and what is their ultimate goal?

★Lost City of Eight Arms

Write a story about an explorer who stumbles upon an ancient underwater city that seems to have been built by octopuses. Uncover the mysteries of this octopus civilization and the artifacts left behind.

Picture Prompts for Writers

~ Brooke F. ~ 9 Comments

Any image is worth a thousand words as they say. I’m not sure if this exchange rate is exact or fixed but it’s worth trying, right?

Hope everyone is doing wonderfully this fine December. As for me, I am doing well. However, I made the mistake of blinking and now it is already the 19th and Christmas is right around the corner and pretty soon, before I know it, I’ll be back in school, taking on the second semester of my junior year.

I had a few goals to complete before break is over, one of which being to write a few short stories. Seems simple enough, right?

Hahaha….ahem.

At any rate, I find the most inspiration for my short story piece by taking a scroll through pinterest for any art or pictures that trigger those creative juices to get to work. I figured I might share a few as well as a link the pinterest board I’ve created primarily for picture prompts. The link for this board is here.

But if you’re feeling a bit reluctant, here are a few images to give you a taste for what I look for in my photo prompts.

We’re starting off strong. This cute lil guy is actually a knick-knack/snail terrarium. Pretty cute, right? He actually goes for about $250-$300 dollars so he is definitely on the expensive said. However, that’s not the point. I see this little guy and I can’t help but imagine an ecosystem with organisms that are a fusion between animals and plants. What would that look like?

Elephants with vines hanging from their tusks. Owls with whit mushrooms growing along their body that allow them to absorb nutrients. Deer with antlers made of actual branches that sprout blossoms that change with the season. Whales covered in moss. The possibilities are endless!!!

I look at this image and not only am envious of the fact that I don’t think I have 5 friends who would dress up as mushrooms with me, but I also see potential for a story. A DnD type adventuring party sets out on a journey! Except they’re all cute lil mushroom gals. What quest are they on exactly? And what hijinks will ensue?

(Link to the cosplayer’s twitter where the image was posted can be found here)

I need a short story featuring cute but horrifying monster cats. That is all.

Similar to the plants & animals prompt but with a steampunk-y twist. Imagine we, as humans, craft machine animals. Ones that are better equipped and therefore outcompete the actual wildlife on Earth when they are released into the wild? Just food for thought….(and hopefully your writing).

A vague concept but tattoo weapons and items is simply too cool not to include. How it may look in your story will probably differ from someone else’s. The parameters of this concept are up to you!

This marvelous painting by Jakub Rozalski gives me medieval David and Goliath vibes. But it makes me wonder….what if knighthood was not limited to humans? Could a fairy be knighted? A wizard maybe? Or perhaps… a giant?

And those are just a few picture prompts that I found while scouring my pinterest board. Definitely check it out if you’re interested. Regardless, I hope these few prompts got your rusty gears a-turnin’!

Have a Merry Christmas or Happy Holidays (whichever seems more appealing to you)!

Take care!