Freely Written: Short Stories From a Simple Prompt
Short stories spark your imagination. Join author Susan Quilty as she uses simple writing prompts to free-write her way into strange, silly, or poignant tales. Biweekly episodes offer new stories. To learn more about Susan and her books, visit SusanQuilty.com.Note: Prior to 2023, every 5th episode featured story commentary instead of a new story.
Episodes
In today's story, Turkey Trot, Max learns about a family tradition.
Today's prompt was inspired by Thanksgiving, a holiday that often involves eating turkey, putting out turkey-themed decorations, and running races with fun names like turkey trot or gobble wobble.
If you enjoy today's story, please share it with your friends and leave a review for Freely Written. You can also se...
In today's story, Pumpkins, a quiet man in a quiet town thinks about pumpkins
Today's prompt came up as a way to hold on to the fall season before the winter holidays take over. It turned into a cozy story, opting for comfort and community over the thrill of drama.
If you enjoy today's story, please share it with your friends and leave a review for Freely Written. You can also send m...
In today's story, Black Cat, a coven gathers to discuss current events
Today's prompt was loosely inspired by Halloween and the fall season, which is often rushed through on our way to the winter holidays.
If you enjoy today's story, please share it with your friends and leave a review for Freely Written. You can also send me a prompt suggestion, and I'll be sure to credit you i...
In today's story, Local News, Joyce helps her grandson with his homework
Today's prompt was a local news crew spotted at a scenic overlook during a recent vacation. As always, this story was written from the prompt, with no planning and very little editing.
If you enjoy today's story, please share it with your friends and leave a review for Freely Written. You can also send me a pro...
In today's story, Is That Me?, a scientist takes an unforgettable step in her career.
Today's prompt came up during a conversation with my friend Gretchen Schutte. You can connect with Gretchen about yoga and meditation on her website: https://www.peaceinthepause.com/
As always, this story was written from the prompt, with no planning and very little editing. If you enjoy today's st...
In today's story, Wait For It, two women chat on a bus.
Today's prompt came up while thinking about the patience it takes for situations--and people--to grow and change.
As always, this story was written from the prompt, with no planning and very little editing. If you enjoy today's story, please share it with your friends and leave a review for Freely Written. You can also send me...
In today's story, Labor of Love, Love reflects on her day's work, including a challenging repair call.
Today's prompt came from simple word association as it was written on Labor Day. Labor Day... Labor of Love.
As always, this story was written from the prompt, with no planning and very little editing. If you enjoy today's story, please share it with your friends and leave a re...
In today's story, Migraine, a debilitating migraine stirs a stew of thoughts and emotions
Today's prompt was inspired by a recent migraine. Being knocked down by a migraine can be physically and emotionally overwhelming. If you struggle with migraines or other health issues, please know that you are not alone. Seek help from friends, doctors, and support groups.
As always, this story was w...
In today's story, Condesplaining, a new arrival gets a lesson on small town rules
Today's prompt is a made-up word. It's essentially a gender-neutral version of "mainsplaining." In other words, it describes the act of explaining something without regard for the listener's expertise. If you have a prompt suggestion, let me know and I'll be sure to credit you in the episode!
In today's story, Widgets, a writer wanders through a wobbly chat about whatchamacallits
Today's prompt had no obvious inspiration. It just came to me in a flash while wondering what prompt to use. If you have a prompt suggestion, let me know and I'll be sure to credit you in the episode!
As always, this story was written from the prompt, with no planning and very little editing. If yo...
In today's story, City Life, some small town kids head to a big city summer camp
Today's prompt was inspired by some upcoming vacation plans. While I sometimes like to head to the beach or mountains, I also need a few city trips throughout the year.
As always, this story was written from the prompt, with no planning and very little editing. If you enjoy today's story, please share it ...
In today's story, Think Tank, what happens when a group of researchers consider the future?
Today's prompt came up when I was telling Peter a story about how my mom used to say that I should be put in a think tank someday--which prompted some weird ideas in my young mind. Peter said think tank should be my next prompt, and here we are!
As always, this story was written from the prompt, w...
In today's story, Never Say Never, a couple tries to write their wedding vows
Today's prompt was inspired by a book on my shelf called Never, Never Quit by Karen Hallion (great book!). This story has nothing to do with that book, but the title made me think of the expression 'never say never' and I ran with it.
As always, this story was written from the prompt, with no planni...
In today's story, Reusable Straws, a gathering of drinking straws gives way to deeper meaning.
Today's prompt was inspired by a reusable straw sitting on my desk. I didn't expect such a mundane item would lead where it did, but I really like the story that emerged.
As always, this story was written from the prompt, with no planning and very little editing. If you enjoy today's ...
In today's story, Birds of a Feather, a house finch and two mourning doves discuss the new bird feeder in town
Today's prompt was inspired by my new smart bird feeder. Watching birds is surprisingly entertaining. Especially when it leads to a fun little story.
As always, this story was written from the prompt, with no planning and very little editing. If you enjoy today's story, plea...
Special Sleep Edition: Today's story, Soft Summer Rain, is a sleepy story that may lull you into a gentle nap or a goodnight's sleep.
Today's prompt was inspired by a rainy local authors' event and the drowsiness that came after a day of selling my books to new readers. It's a special story with a softer tone, designed to help you fall asleep.
As always, this story was wri...
In today's story, Infinity Plus One, two sisters argue over who loves cinnamon toast the most.
Today's prompt was loosely chosen based on my use of an infinity strap during a virtual yoga class. It's one of my favorite yoga props, a short cotton strap sewn in the shape of an infinity sign or figure eight.
As always, this story was written from the prompt, with no planning and very li...
In today's story, Tread Softly, a young woman reflects on lessons she learned from her older brother.
Today's prompt was inspired by a book of the same title. When I was young, I loved Tread Softly by Corinne Gerson. I recently tracked down a copy and was delighted to read it again.
As always, this story was written from the prompt, with no planning and very little editing. If you enjoy ...
In today's story, Cake, thoughts of sweets freely ramble
Today's prompt is a loose stream of consciousness ramble that begins with sleeping on a bed made of chocolate cake. Or something like that... Sometimes stories have less story and more nonsense. This is one of those times.
As always, this story was written from the prompt, with no planning and very little editing. If you enjoy today...
In today's story, Under Where, a fairy finds a career without collecting teeth
Today's prompt is a bit of word play based on the phrase "under where" sounding like the word "underwear." Yes, very silly. Sometimes silly is good way to let your imagination flow.
As always, this story was written from the prompt, with no planning and very little editing. If you enjoy toda...
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