“Generally in English multi-syllabic words have a way of softening the impact of language. With multi-syllabic words we can show compassion, tenderness and tranquility. With multi-syllabic words we become more civilized.”
This is one of those books that has been on my reading list for the last year but I never seem to get around to reading it. It is often quoted in poetry craft books and I felt it was required reading if I am going to continue on this creative writing path.
Early this morning inspired by Lauri, I made an appointment with myself for writing. I was at the coffee shop before they opened with a manila folder of poetry and no other distractions. I sat there in a quiet space and drank a cappuccino, writing in longhand. There was a peacefulness that I don’t often feel at home in my office. I think sometimes you need to change your writing space to feel inspired. My office is also home to financial stuff and business stuff that can often be overwhelming. Two hours later I had several pages of new words, a new poem started and some revisions. Pretty exciting stuff for a Monday morning.
Today, a writing prompt inspired by an old Valentine I picked up yesterday at the antique mall. It was also mailed on Valentine’s Day, February 14, 1909.
Dear cousin,
How be you this fine day. Your cousin G.H. is to be married this week come up and we will go to the wedding. Ha! Ha!
Alta
There could be a lot more to this card than a quick note. Today, imagine you are Miss Alla Hawk from Melrose, Iowa in 1909 and write a response to Alta at least one page long. What is the story behind the story? Are you offended by her postcard or is there a funny story behind it. What part does G.H. play in it? Now get back to work!
Lovingly,
The Writing Nag
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Two things:
1. I love The Triggering Town. It really is a must read; I have read it twice and keep picking it up for a little this or that. Some of the advice is common sense that may not have been sifted out yet, some comes off as ground breaking and other tidbits might make you giggle or groan. (I must note that I came out of reading this book not being too fond of Hugo — or at least the persona he creates in it.)
2. I love your idea for the prompt. I think I need to spend time at the next antique fair looking for old pictures and cards, especially since they will be in Italian which should add another layer. I am going to have to try this. Brava!
Glad I inspired you! Guess I better go inspire myself.