I came across this delicious map in an online archive, instantly started thinking about story-writing.
Not only do our stories often start out this way (we can see, maybe as far as Cleveland, but beyond that it is terra incognita), but the whole frontier idea is rich with story possibilities.
The Prompt
Write a story that involves the unknown, the unknowable, a frontier (physical or metaphysical). It could be set any time or place in this world or another universe.Take the idea of that unknown portion of the map from 1714 and find a way to work it into your story’s landscape.
Tips
- Don’t worry about your audience and who might read it
- Make sure your story travels from start to end: don’t just write a scene, make someone or something change between the first word and the last.
The Rules:
- You should use the prompt in your story (however tenuous the connection).
- You must write the story in one 24 hr period – the faster the better.
- Post the story in the comments — if you’re brave enough.
- Find something nice to say about someone else’s story and leave a comment. Everybody needs a little support!
Optional Extras:
Share this challenge on Twitter or Facebook
Some tweets/updates you might use:
Don’t miss my short story about the Unknown: #WriteOnWed #storyaday http://wp.me/p1PnSG-o7
This week’s #WriteOnWed short story prompt is a cool old map! #storyaday http://wp.me/p1PnSG-o7
Come and write with us: #WriteOnWed #storyaday http://wp.me/p1PnSG-o7
See my story – and write your own, today: #WriteOnWed #storyaday http://wp.me/p1PnSG-o7