What Should I Write About?

Where do you find ideas for stories? Well . . . there are plenty of places to discover something interesting or worthwhile to say. But to track them down, you have to keep informed about what’s happening in the world, brainstorm original ideas, and keep your ear to the ground for the curious, the weird, or the otherwise fascinating.

Finding Something to Say

Ideas for stories are everywhere. In the news, in that summer novel, in your neighbor’s backyard. Whether you’re writing fiction or nonfiction, an idea is out there waiting for you.

Elizabeth Gilbert writes in Big Magic that inspiration is ripe for the writer who is open to receive it. She believes ideas populate the air and actively search for someone to bring them to life. While that may sound a bit bizarre, it’s also comforting. Think about it. You have the ability to pluck an idea from the air, put your own twist on it and produce a compelling narrative or fascinating tale.

So, how can you open yourself up to these floating bits of inspiration? Be present in the world. What does that mean? Observe. Listen with intention. Embrace new experiences. Interact with friends and strangers.

Observe

People-watching is a great exercise in observation. Pick an individual to watch. Imagine their occupation, hobbies, and inner life based on their appearance and actions. Jot down a few descriptions like a detective would: age, height,  build, hair color and length, scars, other identifying features. Play with the results to build an interesting character with a rich inner life. Let your imagination go wild!

Listen

Listening to a friend’s antics or eavesdropping on a stranger’s conversation can provide inspiration too. You’ve seen the disclaimers:This is a work of fiction. Any resemblance to persons living or dead is entirely coincidental. But seriously, writers borrow from real life all the time. You may also be familiar with names have been changed to protect the innocent, or not so innocent, as the case may be. The beauty of fiction is you can embellish an actual event for dramatic effect without being called a liar.

Explore

Exploring new places or experiences will likely spark an idea for you to write about as well. You could be inspired by the architecture or foods of an unfamiliar culture. Maybe a visit to a historic site will prompt you to learn more about a time or place. Participating in a new activity could give you an idea for a character.

Writers make stuff up. Daydream a little and open yourself to inspiration. Let your imagination loose and ideas for stories will find you.