Prompt: Playing in the Sandbox by Scott Frank

January 8. Playing in the Sandbox by Scott Frank

For me, writing is a form of play. A game I continue to try and fail to master. I refer to working out ideas as “playing in the sandbox.” A process of happy digging and discovery without any purpose. This makes for time spent not trying so much, which allows that little kid inside who comes up with all the good stuff to show up and show off. I’ve learned that the more pressure I put on that kid, the lousier the writer.

Your prompt for today:
Imagine yourself in your childhood backyard, playground, schoolyard—wherever you would play. Write about that place. What toys or tools are you playing with? Are you alone? Is anyone there with you? If so, can you make them talk, but without thinking about it? Does something happen, say, inside the house, or across the yard, or up in the sky? Stop writing the minute it feels like work!