In Field Guide to Flash Fiction, edited by Tara L. Marsh, Robert Olen Butler states that “a short short story [is] not a prose poem because it has at its center a character who yearns.” To play on the exercise he provides in the book, let’s write about two characters in a romantic relationship who yearn for different things.

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In the Greek myth, Hera cursed the nymph Echo to only repeat what’s been said to her. For today’s prompt, reinvent this myth—or bring it into the present day.

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One of our most challenging experiences as writers is to capture the way that an emotion feels in the body. Today, let’s practice by translating the way that loneliness feels to the page.

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For today’s prompt, imagine a secret ingredient that makes people relive memories.

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For today’s prompt, write about a toy that comes to life to protect a child.

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For today’s prompt, write about a vending machine that gives the customer what they need instead of what they want.

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We just had our annual conference, where I had the pleasure of running the debut author panel! It got me thinking about stage fright, and what kind of person has never experienced it.

For today’s prompt, write about someone who thrives on stage.

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For today’s prompt, write about a day in the life of an illustrator.

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For today’s prompt, write about someone stumbling across an abandoned truck.

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For today’s prompt, write about a defining moment in a hunter’s life. Is it bagging the biggest or most challenging prey? Is it a spiritual event that causes them to stop hunting? Don’t be afraid to follow the story into unexpected territory!

Post your response (500 words or fewer) in the comments below.

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