Freely Written: Short Stories From a Simple Prompt

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

October 2, 2024 11 mins

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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...

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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...

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September 4, 2024 10 mins

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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...

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August 21, 2024 14 mins

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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...

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August 7, 2024 13 mins

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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!

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July 24, 2024 9 mins

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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...

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July 10, 2024 10 mins

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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 ...

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June 26, 2024 13 mins

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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...

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June 12, 2024 12 mins

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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...

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May 28, 2024 12 mins

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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 ...

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May 14, 2024 11 mins

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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...

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April 30, 2024 10 mins

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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...

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April 16, 2024 9 mins

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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...

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April 2, 2024 12 mins

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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 ...

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March 19, 2024 10 mins

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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...

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March 5, 2024 14 mins

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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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February 20, 2024 12 mins

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In today's story, Out For Delivery, a casual conversation finds some feelings 

Today's prompt came up while I was waiting for a package to be delivered. Tracking information is great until it becomes a distraction you check every few minutes as your delivery get closer.

As always, this story was written from the prompt, with no planning and very little editing. If you enjoy today's st...

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February 6, 2024 12 mins

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In today's story, Breathe, life unfolds one breath at a time

Today's prompt was inspired by my other job, which is teaching yoga. Breath is a key part of a yoga practice. Breathing practices can help you feel centered and better prepared to handle all aspects of your life. 

As always, this story was written from the prompt, with no planning and very little editing. If you enjoy today'...

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January 23, 2024 9 mins

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In today's story, Clockwork, romance blooms in a clock shop

Today's prompt came from a hazy dream of gears moving like clockwork. Today's episode also includes a reintroduction for listeners who are new to Freely Written. 

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 l...

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January 9, 2024 14 mins

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In today's story, Splitting Hairs, a detective meets the family

Today's prompt was loosely inspired by a trip to get my hair cut... which doesn't really have much to do with the expression. The phrase just came to mind, which is enough to make it a writing prompt!

As always, this story was written from the prompt, with no planning and very little editing. If you enjoy today's stor...

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