The heat has been weighing down on everything for too long, and I feel too lazy to write anything right now, and way to lacking in self conviction. So I was pleased when, shuffling around in my bookshelves, I rediscovered the original 'A Writer's Book of Days', published in America over two decades ago.
Judy Reeves, the author, labels her book with an rather enthusiastic strapline, 'A Spirited Companion & Lively Muse for the Writing Life'. A title definitely not of the 'Construct your own MegaBlockbuster' writing genre.
Month by month, in her bracingly encouraging style, Reeves suggests methods of breaking through reluctance and doubts along with lists a mixed selection of gossipy 'famous writer' facts. The main drive of the book, however, is to encourage the reader to build a daily writing practice.
To push things along, Reeves gives a list of optional Daily Prompts, leaving the reader free as to how to respond to the idea, and whatever character, voice or style they choose. She is, simply , very keen for her students to do some writing, to not put it off, and to get some words on the page asap. Also, I felt myself responding to the style of her suggestions.
So here are seven of her random prompts, which you could use for a bit of daily writing of your own right now.
1 Write about a time you got what you wanted.
2 The last time I saw . . .
3 Open the box
4 Write about a wound.
5 These were the reasons to stay.
6 Write about a voice.
7 Night is falling. You're not at home.
Do any interest you, I wonder?
If so, have fun!
Penny Dolan
I'm delighted to say that Judy Reeves website is there for you to find out more about her work and teaching: https://www.judyreeveswriter.com/ The book pictured is a revised version: I wonder what has been changed?
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