As I sat down to write this post, the power at my apartment complex went out. I’m talking 100% total blackout. And being enveloped in total darkness – save for my laptop’s glowing screen – gave me an idea for today’s writing exercise.
One night, turn off all the lights in your room and sit as quietly as possible. Do this for five to ten minutes.
- Note in your head what sounds you hear.
- Do you know where the sounds are coming from?
- What else could be making those noises?
- Can you hear people talking? Can you tell what they’re saying? Their tone of voice?
- Do you smell anything?
- What images pop into your head as you sit in the darkness? Do you think you see things in the darkness that aren’t really there?
- What thoughts pop into your head?
- What ideas have arrived as you sit in the dark, still space?
- Do any noises, voices, smells, or thoughts spark any story ideas?
Once you turn the lights back on and your eyes adjust to the light, write down what you heard, smelled, and thought. Be as descriptive as possible.
Write a short story based on your experience.
Happy Writing, and I’ll see you next time!