How a food allergy prompt unlocked my writer's block

For months, I struggled to write anything good. Then I found a prompt asking to describe a meal from the perspective of someone who can't eat it. I chose a baker allergic to wheat. Writing about her watching others enjoy bread was tough but fun. I focused on the sound of crust cracking and the smell of fresh rolls. It helped me show her sadness without saying it directly. When I shared it with my writing group, they loved the sensory details. This little win has me looking forward to my next writing session.

3 comments

3 Comments

claire83629d ago

That's such a smart way to show a feeling. You could use that method for anything, like describing anger just through a character's hot face and clenched fists.

kelly.grace29d ago

Wow, I always thought you had to state feelings directly.

jamesf2628d ago

Totally get what you mean, Kelly. I just finished a thriller where the main character never said he was scared, but the author kept mentioning his dry mouth and how he kept checking the locks. It made the whole thing way more tense. Sometimes stating it flat out just kills the vibe. Claire's example with the hot face and fists is perfect for that. It lets the reader feel it themselves instead of just being told.