Good Writing Takes Practice

 

Today's photos speak to us of autumn, or fall, whichever word you prefer. Personally, I tend to autumn. It seems a much nicer word. Maybe I prefer it as fall has more than one meaning. Autumn is its own word. Say the two words aloud. Which one do you prefer?

The two autumn photos are perfect to inspire a freewrite exercise. They give you the opportunity to practice writing description. Each one can inspire a story or poem. Three possibilities.

When you describe the color in each photo, try not to use 'red' or 'yellow.' Instead, use words that bring the thought of red or yellow to mind but are more poetic, more descriptive. If you want your writing to sing, then you must use words that will help you write beautiful prose. 

When using photo prompts, consider the sensory details. What do you see, hear, smell, touch, or taste? Including some of those senses will bring the scene alive for your readers. 

Can a writing exercise evolve into a full story, essay, or poem? Absolutely! I've done it, and so have many of the members of my online writing group. You can, too.

Use either one or both of the photos to for a writing exercise today. Make one a freewrite where you write without thinking, without stopping, or simply as a prompt to write a descriptive paragraph, or even as inspiration to write a full story, essay, or poem. Your choice.

Good writing takes practice. So, go for it!