Live Poet’s Society

I have mentioned before that I love to write. And before you say “don’t give up your day job”, I should remind you that writing actually IS my day job. And also one of my hobbies.

My friend Teeni over at the Vaguetarian Tea Room recently completed an assignment. But not just any assignment. It was set by one of her readers, WriterChick, who asked Teeni to rewrite a scene from Alice Through the Looking Glass, but to put herself in the role of the star. She did a stellar job, blowing us away with her hidden poetry skills. You can read it here.

I thought the whole “handing out assignments” idea was F.U.N. so Teeni and I decided that we would collaborate on something together (*rubs hands together with an evil laugh*). We decided to set each other an assignment, with a flexible 1-month deadline. Not only that … we decided to open the assignment up to any of our readers who want to have a go!

So … here is my assignment for Teeni (and anyone else who wants to take part):

Write a short story or essay using the first-person narrative. You can have as many characters as you like, but you must include yourself and a well-known character from a TV show or movie (in the role he/she is famous for). And at some point in the story, one of your characters must recite a Spenserian sonnet about something or someone they love.

Easy, huh?

Now, ask yourself the following questions:
*Is there a writer inside you, struggling to get out?
*Are you the owner of a hidden literary talent that needs to be shared?
* Do you have an urge to write and express your innermost thoughts and feelings, but don’t know where to start?
Yes? Well, here is your opportunity!

If you’d like to tackle this assignment (or the one Teeni has set for me on her blog), post your finished masterpiece on your blog and link back to this post (or hers). Oh, and feel free to display this badge on your blog when you’re all done:

I know, I know. There is a reason why I’m not a graphic designer. But seriously, wouldn’t it look good in your sidebar? Yes, I think it would.

So? What are you all waiting for? Get writing! You have a whole month (give or take), so I won’t accept “I’m too busy” as an excuse. You all know how busy I am, but I’m still taking part! Writing can be very relaxing and therapeutic, and it can be done anywhere. Carry a little notebook with you and if you get an idea, jot it down. Inspiration can strike in the most unusual places, so it pays to be prepared!

Last night I stumbled upon this great website. I thought I’d share the link for anyone who wants to give this assignment a go, but hasn’t done much writing before. The website features various generators that will provide you with as much, or as little, help as you need. There are plenty of good story ideas – from first lines and titles, to fully outlined characters and scenarios. There’s also a random generator which will give you 3 words to try and spark your imagination into life.
Check it out.

And why not pay a visit to the Vaguetarian Tea Room and see the assignment Teeni has set for me. Remember, if you are keen to play along, you can choose either (or both, if you’re really keen!) of these assignments.

Finally, HAVE FUN! I’m going to.