5 Lockdown-Inspired Prompts for the Procrastinating Writer
Ahhh, lockdown. Here we are again. Waking every morning with the day stretching out lazily before us, absent of distraction, an opportunity to sit down and finally get some writing done.
Nope. Still struggling? Consider some of my topical and very motivating writing prompts!
You accidently brush hands with the cashier as he gives you your receipt. It is the first skin on skin contact you’ve had in weeks. He is un-gloved. Forbidden. How do you feel? Do you reach for the sanitiser immediately? Or do you flex your hand as you leave the store, à la Pride and Prejudice (2005), afire with yearning? Write a poem about it.
Try your hand at the viral whipped coffee trend that has taken Tik Tok by storm! Just do the following:
Step 1: Combine 2 tablespoons granulated instant coffee, 1/2 tablespoon sugar and 2 tablespoons hot water.
Step 2: Whip together by hand, or with an electric mixer, until it turns creamy.
Step 3: Spoon the mixture over a glass of iced milk and drink!
Step 4: After approximately 20-30 mins, you’ll find yourself in the comfort of your own bathroom. You’re going to be in there a while, so free write your way through that caffeine high! You may surprise yourself with an idea or two.
Do you often find yourself watching the news and crying aloud: ‘Could things get any worse?!’ Good news, writer – things probably could! Just think about it! Think about it. Don’t stop thinking about it. Spend every waking second thinking about it. Then write all those thoughts down! Who knows what dystopian futures your mind will conjure up?
Stalk your ex-classmates on Facebook. Who’s engaged? Who has kids? Who was super mean to you in secondary school but is now a self-proclaimed advocate for self-love and has a yoga page? Who has a puppy? These people are your competition. You must be better than all of them. Imagine being the one at the 10-year reunion that gets to say ‘Oh, you know, I’ve published a few books over the years. No big deal.’ Let this be your motivation. You have. To be. The Best.
If all above fails, have a glass of red wine – or three – and go to town on that keyboard! *
Happy writing, folks!
*Authors note: Although it will seem like a good idea at the time, do not call your ex. Do not respond to any ‘how’s lockdown treating ya 😉?’ texts and absolutely stay away from Twitter.
by Megan Jones
About the briefs and co-ops
On week 1 of the Post-Digital Content module, students where asked to respond to the brief of Writers and Hope. This piece from the Saboteur co-op was selected for publication by the editorial team of the module. Saboteur specialises on disruptive content. Megan challenges the listicle format and the writing advice articles here.