Character Sketch

"Knowledge of your characters emerges the way a Polaroid develops:  it takes time for you to know them," (Anne Lamont, Bird by Bird).  J.K. Rowling got to know Harry and Dickens to know Scrooge.  This week's prompt is to create a character sketch.  You may create a fictional character from any walk of life or write about someone you know in life:  a modern day teenager , your great-grandfather, or a child from centuries ago.  Begin by brainstorming all about your character.  How does he act, feel, and look?  What does she have in her purse?  What is his opinion?  What does she love and hate?  "Squint at these characters in your mind," and include what they say with dialogue.  Keep thinking about your character for a few days before you begin your sketch.  Get to know them and see what develops.

A Picture Is Worth...

It is easy to find writing inspiration in a picture.  Even more, it is interesting to hear what different ideas come from two separate students, who have been inspired by the same picture.  This week's prompt is a photo.  If you came to the club, you received one...if you didn't, you may choose one of the images below from which to write or you may see me this week and take a photo with you (I have many more).  It was BEAUTIFUL to have you share some of your writing today!  That is the best part...

 

It Starts With You

Before we write about anything else, I want you to be able to write about yourself.  You are receiving a paper bag today (if you would like to use a different container, you may).  Inside the bag, you will put those characteristics you keep inside you, or keep private (write these on the small slips of paper provided and actually place these in the bag).  On the outside of the bag, write the characteristics you show to the world.  You may also glue pictures and/or symbols to represent the way you feel, act, and look as well.  Now you will be ready for this week's writing prompt which is to create a piece of writing about YOU.  It may be a poem, story, narrative, or any other type of writing you would like.  Use the bag you created as inspiration and see what you get!  Please bring your writing to our next meeting.  Feel free to post writing club feedback below...do you have any suggestions for our group?  Have fun!