I’ve finished my May writing challenge and have learned quite a bit. I’ve learned there’s plenty of material to write about; also, it’s important not to paint yourself into a corner by restricting yourself to certain styles, genres, etc.

It was fun coming up with something different every time. Because I set the goal for myself and was consistent with the daily effort, I got to practice using different literary devices such as alliteration, suspense, onomatopoeia,  POV, foreshadowing, etc., and, more importantly, was aware of what I was doing.

Sitting there in front of the “White Bull” and wondering how to deface that pure unblemished space can be a daunting experience. But I found that all you have to do is start writing something–the first thing that comes into your mind and before you know it the words begin to flow. This presupposes, of course, you have something to say in life. If you don’t, well, maybe you shouldn’t be trying to write.

Other benefits I got from my exercise were several segments of a background story I’ve been writing to tie together a collection of my short stories called “Virtual Life.” They dealt with a rescue party sent to aid the people in a neighboring village beset by savage barbarians.

All in all, if you’re into writing, I recommend the exercise heartily! Write a story every day. Don’t over reach, keep the word count low, 500 to 1,000 words.

I’ll be focusing on music for the time being and my story creation will have to take a back seat. Nevertheless, I shall try to do at least one story per week for June and we’ll see how that works out. I think perhaps I’ll make the stories a little longer.

Fare well in all you do!

Chitlin Child