Writing Dare #1: Make ‘Em Feel Something in One (short) Sentence

Sure, we writers have to do a lot to “sell” our work—but that doesn’t discount the power of the first sentence. The first set of words in your work determines if a potential reader will invest in you art or click away.

No pressure, right? Right. Lets have some fun with this.

This post is the first in a long series of “Writing Dares” meant to challenge you or (at least) encourage you to have some fun. I’ll present a dare every other week and then you complete it. But remember: you have to stick to the rules.

(If you’re a regular to my blog, you’d know that I post “Freewriting” prompts every so often. “Writing Dares” are not like my “Freewriting” prompts. These are for folks who want a little challenge.)

The Challenge!

Your goal is to construct five sentences that captures each of these emotions:

1. Urgency
2. Romance
3. Wonder
4. Confusion
5. Sadness

The Rules!

• Write one sentence for each emotion.
• Your sentences can be no longer than 12 words.
• Tell me how it went for you in the comments.
• Post them on your blog or online space with a link to this post (optional)

Inspiration!

Need inspiration? Here’s some short first sentences from the authors in my Kindle library.

Nefertiti’s Heart by A.W. Exley:

“There was something cathartic about wielding a crowbar.”

Ash by Jason Brant:

“I couldn’t get the blood off my hands.”

Strange Magic by James A. Hunter

“The piano keys bobbed and danced under the pressure of my fingers.”

 

Good luck.

 

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Okay, that’s it. Later! 🙂