What If? Writing Exercises for Fiction Writers

Author's Note: These prompts may not be for beginner fiction writers! They sound tough to me.

Anne Bernays and Pamela Painter - What if? Writing Exercises for Fiction Writers prompts -

The Exercise:

This one is in two parts. First experiment with different types of openings for different stories until you feel comfortable with the technique of each. Then see how many ways there are to open one particular story you have in mind. How does the story change when the opening changes from a generalization to a line of dialogue?

The Objective:

To see how experimenting with several ways of opening your story can lead you to a better understanding of whose story it is, and what the focus of the story will be.

With a generalization -

Growing up as a Native American in the United States is not easy...

With an education, you can live comfortably, and it will be possible to care for your children without relying on social services...

With a description of a person -

This man was tall and good-looking. His bald head was shining in the sun, and he had a smile that was the best, above all the rest...

She held a baby in her arms, a quiet, small woman in a long skirt with ribbons, she sat there crying...

With narrative summary -

He was a Catholic priest in the town until his abuse of children in the church became known, and then he was no longer a part of this parish...

The powwow was fun for all, and it was as though the group hadn't been apart at all...

With dialogue -

"Starting with laughter is so important for helping with depression, anxiety, pain, having a better day, and so much more," said Sarah...

Being happy, joyous, and free is the best way to be for you and me, said Denise...

With several characters but no dialogue -

While at the powwow, the crowd all stood for Grand Entry as the flags entered the arena, along with the service men and women who carried those flags. Next was the traditional dancers...

On Thursdays at Mad Dogs, the Y Sisters meet to connect and eat lunch. Three of them will eat the broasted chicken, while two have salad, and one orders pizza...

With a setting and only one character -

While at the birthday party for her friend, Barbara was ready to get back to school. She was concerned that her friends she didn't see at this party may have forgotten her and that the boy she liked may not give her a second look as he found someone else over the summer...

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Author's Note: There are more, but this is enough for now! Practice is a good skill to have. I had some trouble staying away from non-fiction, as you may or may not have noticed. I have trouble with fiction.