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101 Unique Word Prompts for Imaginative Writing

Word prompts are short, fun ways to get your imaginative writing flowing.

When I delved into the world of imaginative writing for the first time, writer’s block was a problem. Not having the tools needed to help me achieve my creative vision was, too, a problem.

RELATED: 30 Tools For The Imaginative Writer

This was back when I was a kid, and when I didn’t know all that much about how to improve my writing. What I decided to do (before I knew writing prompts were a thing) was to search through the dictionary for interesting words. Props to my 4th-year primary school teacher for that one (thanks Miss Nayyer!).

And when I sat down to write a piece of fiction I am currently still working on, this was the very tactic I used to kickstart my creative vision for my imaginative writing. Today, I know them as word prompts.

Why Use Word Prompts For Imaginative Writing?

Word prompts are, for me, more effective at stimulating the imagination because it doesn’t force you down a particular path. Writing prompts tend to be about an idea, a setting, a person, or a situation. While this is awesome in its own right, it can limit the imagination to a certain context. This can work spectacularly well for micro fiction or flash fiction for certain genres.

But for those wanting more creative freedom and more ‘leash’ so to speak, this is where I feel word prompts are the superior choice for imaginative writing.

What I found is that word prompts are a good way of forcing you to think more about what you want to write. But they are still effective at giving you a nudge. Similar to writing prompts, just leaving more wiggle room for your imagination to run with any ideas!

With that in mind, it is time to get this list started. I wanted to create an extensive list that can act as a long-term go-to resource for all your imaginative writing needs. The general idea is to use the word prompt to write about where your mind goes.

So, let’s get started!

Word Prompts 1 – 10

mushroom in grass for writing inspiration

1. Sonder  –  Sonder is described as the realization that a person makes that every individual they pass, even for just a moment, is likely leading a life just as, if not more so, complicated than their own.

2. Megalopolis  –  A megalopolis is a vast network of towns, villages, and cities. It is usually described as a huge urban complex.

3. Tort  –  Tort is a word used to describe wrongdoing in the field of law. Typically, a tort is an action described as wrongdoing that can enable a person to claim damages.

4. Nihilism  –  Nihilism is a school of philosophy. It is centered around the idea that all values are inherently baseless and that nothing can truly be known, much less communicated.

5. Ennui  –  This is a word used to describe the feeling of being bored, specifically by something tedious.

6. Nachlass  –  Nachlass is a German word that is used to describe a collection of notes, workings, papers, and research that is left in the wake of a scholar’s death.

7. Palaestra  –  A palaestra was a place in Rome (a public one) where wrestlers and athletes would train.

8. Aikido  –  A Japanese martial art focused on the principles of the sanctity of life, re-direction, and peace.

9. Papyrus  –  Paper that was made by the ancient Egyptians using fibers from the Papyrus plant.

10. Creed  –  A word used to describe any system of beliefs.

Word Prompts 11 – 20

a boat sailing on a lake for writer inspiration

11. Odium  –  A word used to describe a widespread hatred for someone.

12. Vagary  –  An unusual, wild idea that comes to mind. Usually on a whim.

13. Hodophile  –  A person that loves to travel, so much so that it is all they want to do.

14. Bonnie  –  A word from the Scots language meaning beautiful.

15. Pannotia  –  A supercontinent that formed early in Earth’s history. Also known as the Vendian supercontinent, Greater Gondwana, or the Pan-African supercontinent.

16. Cynosure  –  A word used to describe someone or something that strongly attracts attention, and admiration, or is a point of interest for many.

17. Sisyphean  –  Used to describe something that takes a lot of effort but is futile.

18. Poikilotherm  –  An animal that has its body temperature defined by its surroundings. Its temperature varies with the overall room/environment temperature.

19. Schema  –  Another word used to describe a plan or schematic. 

20. Assyrian  –  An extinct language used by the Assyrians of ancient Mesopotamia.

Word Prompts 21 – 30

a market in a town square for writing inspiration

21. Hypertrophey  –  When a body part or organ becomes unusually enlarged.

22. Serer  –  A West African language that is closely related to that of Fula. It is primarily spoken in Gambia and Senegal.

23. Cultivar  –  A plant developed from a naturally occurring plant species that has been cultivated and maintained in this status of cultivation.

24. Lexicography  –  The act and task of writing as well as updating dictionaries.

25. Graphomania  –  This is one a lot of imaginative writers will get from time to time! This is the compulsion to write. A sudden urge to write suddenly comes over you without warning.

25. Journalese  –  The writing style employed in newspapers. This word can be used to describe how newspapers are written.

26. Quercitron  –  A rare colour of yellow pigmentation that is only found in the Quercus velutina. A tree (black oak) native to Eastern and Midwestern North America.

27. Grangerize  –  The act of illustrating a book by putting in drawings, prints, and so on from other books/works.

28. Ostensible  –  A word used to describe something, someone, or an idea that appears as something it is not. To pretend.

2 9. Sempiternal  –  Another word to describe something that doesn’t end, or is eternal.

30. Ambrosial  –  This word can be used to describe something as being worthy of a god. It is usually used to describe a taste as immensely sweet.

Word Prompts 31 – 40

a photograph landscape at the foot of a lake for creative writing inspiration

31. Goose-necking  –  A term used in the Southern States of the United States (a slang word) to describe someone or something trying to squeeze into an area or place they are not welcome.

32. Thanatos  –  This word is used to describe an unconscious state of wanting to die. It is also, in Greek Mythology, the personification of death itself.

33. Nova  –  A nova (not to be confused with a supernova) is a star that has ejected some of its material to form a cloud around itself. This process makes the star brighter in the sky.

34. Epithet  –  Another word to describe profanity. However, it is more commonly used to describe abusive words or phrases.

35. Matronymic  –  This word is used to describe the process of naming that derives from the mother, or maternal line, of a family (being named after your mother, or maternal grandmother).

36. Archaism  –  This is a word used to describe the use of an old, archaic term. 

37. Cannonade  –  During the use of cannons in military engagements, a cannonade was a word used to describe consistent, unrelenting, intense cannon fire.

38. Somniloquy  –  This is the act of uttering speech while you are still fast asleep. Maybe get a recorder? Who knows what ideas you might stumble upon for your imaginative writing?

39. Oneironaut  –  Oneironautics is the act of being able to travel during your sleep in a conscious matter, making an Oneironaut a person that does so. What would you go and see?

40. Googol  –  No not the search engine Google. We are referring to a Googol, a number in maths. Its exact figure is 10^100 (10 to the power of 100). A Googol is often regarded as the number by which anything greater would not have any practical applications in the real world.

Word Prompts 41 – 50

artistic drawing of a retro car for inspiring writers

41. Scriptorium  –  A scriptorium is a room inside a monastery that is dedicated to the writing and copying of manuscripts; usually religious but not strictly so.

42. Diaspora  –  This word is used to describe when something that was originally localized to a specific area is spread out across a new region. Examples could be people of a certain ethnicity, culture, or a certain language.

43. Indigen/Indigene  –  A person that was born in a specific place to which they would be a native. For example, I would be an indigen of Scotland!

44. Daub  –  A daub is generally speaking an unskilled painting. A trainee artist could produce daubs.

45. Homiletics  –  Homiletics is a word used, primarily in theology, to describe the processes of and perhaps a person’s dedication to preaching. 

46. Vista  –  Vista is a word used to describe a very beautiful view, usually viewed from a place high up.

47. Strabismus  –  This word is used to describe when someone’s eyes are misaligned. It can occur in one, or both eyes, to different degrees.

48. Mesa  –  A mesa is an area of land that is flat with steep edges (usually defined as tableland).

49. Azure  –  A colour described as a blue hue crossed with purple hints. A clear October sky at dusk can sometimes be described as Azure.

50. Lowlight  –  Lowlight is the opposite of highlight, but is usually used to describe a particularly bad event that happens to a person or group of people. 

Word Prompts 51 – 60

a hawk flying during dusk or dawn to inspire writing

51. Sylvan  –  This is the name given to a spirit that resides within a woodland, or at the very least, frequents a wooded area.

52. Idyll  –  A poem that relates to or describes rural life. This word can also be sued to refer to ballads about rural life.

53. Infravision  –  This is the ability of humans to see in the dark. However, infravision is usually reserved for those that have exceptional eyesight in the dark, or have eyesight so good in dire lighting conditions that their sight is considered almost superhuman.

54. Harrier  –  A harrier is a type of large hawk that hunts small terrestrial animals in meadows and marshes. The word can also be used to describe something or someone that is a persistent attacker.

55. Faery  –  The supposed mythical, enchanted realm that fairies call home. Also a synonym or alternative spelling for a fairy in folklore.

56. Mufti  –  This has two varying meanings, depending on nation and culture. Mufti is more commonly known as a person that interprets Muslim law (jurist). However, mufti can also refer to mufti clothing; another way of saying casual clothing. For example, a mufti day could be described as a casual clothes day where a uniform would normally be worn.

57. Recondite  –  This word can be used to describe something as difficult to penetrate. In regards to knowledge, the word can be used to describe something or someone as difficult to understand or grasp. 

58. Praxis  –  This word is used to describe translating an idea you have into action. For example, for imaginative writing, you may translate one of these word prompts into a flash fiction idea.

59. Edlritch  –  Eldritch is a synonym for something spooky, eerie, or unsettling.

60. Epoch  –  A word that is used to describe a time. While it can refer to a human life or a section of someone’s life, it is more commonly used to refer to a huge period of time; generally in the scale of thousands or millions of years.

Word Prompts 61 – 70

silhouette of a ship for inspiring creative writing

61. Supine  –  This word is used to describe when someone appears to be genuine but in reality, cannot be trusted. It can also be used to describe an idea or falsehood that does the same thing.

62. Lissome  –  This is the act of a person or object that can move with grace but also with great ease. For example, a ballerina.

63. Resol  –  A word used to describe when sunlight reflects off of a surface.

64. Glen  –  A Scots word for a hill, or mountain. 

65. Viridity  –  This word is usually attributed to people that have a nieve form of innocence about them.

66. Aeonian  –  When something is described as being aeonian it is eternal.

67. Kalon  –  A beauty that extends deeper than just looks; to the morality of an individual. This word is derived from Greek philosophy.

68. Ikigai  –  This is the name of a Japanese principle. The concept of having Ikigai is to have a direction or purpose in one’s life that provides satisfaction and fulfillment.

69. Dern  –  Dern is used to describe something hidden or kept secret. In some cases, it can be used to describe hidden feelings that a person may have. It can also refer to a secret or hidden place.

70. Psychomachy  –  Psychomachy is used to describe a state where a person is suffering from an internal conflict of the soul and mind.

Word Prompts 71 – 80

ice melting on top of a frozen lake

71. Mesonoxian  –  A word used to describe something of or related to midnight. For example, an obscure cult could have a mesonoxian ritual.

72. Noetics  –  Noetics is a branch of philosophy dealing with the study of the mind. The word derives from Greek origins.

73. Celestial  –  Celestial is a word used to refer to something otherworldly, or godly. It can refer to a divine being or place beyond our physical world – usually with religious connotations.

74. Ardor  –  Ardor can be sued to describe a feeling of inner emotional warmth or passion. It is often tied to the emotion of love but doesn’t necessarily need to be.

75. Sonorous  –  The word given to a place capable of producing a very deep, resonant sound. This sound is usually very loud also. A cave could be described as giving off a sonorous sound.

76. Geodesy  –  In geology, Geodesy is the study of the shape of the Earth and how certain landmasses came to be located where they are currently located.

77. Bucolic  –  This word relates to the countryside, but more specifically can be used as the name given to short poems about country life. The connotations of the word are usually around an idyllic country life.

78. Sward  –  A surface layer of the ground that is particularly grassy, or contains a network of grassroots/heavy grass coverage. A front lawn could be described as a sward if slightly overgrown. 

79. Filicide  –  The act of murdering your son, daughter, or child. 

80. Elephantine  –  Elephantine can be used to describe something or someone that has an enormous size or formidable strength. 

Word Prompts 81 – 90

a sunrise composite image with space in the background

81. Planemo  –  Planemo is a term used in astronomy and astrophysics to define a planetary-mass object that never undergoes the process of fusion. For example, unlike Stars.

82. Malefic  –  This word can be used in your imaginative writing to describe someone or something as having, or possibly exerting, a malignant influence on something or someone else.

83. Cubit  –  A cubit was a very ancient form of measuring. It used the forearm of a person as its main unit of measurement. For example, your shoulder would be just over 1.5 cubics from your hand (roughly).

84. Sweight  –  The weight of something is the greater part of something. It can also be used to denote a great quantity of something. It derives from Middle English; a language spoken around 500 years ago.

85. Retrograde  –  This word is used to describe something or someone that regresses. However, this does not always denote something getting worse. 

86. Hulder  –  A Hulder, also known as a huldra, is a creature from Scandinavian folklore. It is said that hulder can refer to one individual hulder or a group of the beings.

87. Anomic  –  Anomic is a word used to refer to someone that has a breakdown of their moral values, standards, or internal guidance socially. This usually causes an anomic person to suffer a break from themselves and society. 

88. Ludic  –  The use of the word refers to being playful, or playfulness. It derives from Latin, in which the noun ludus refers to a whole host of fun events or things; such as games, shows, and occasionally to refer to jokes.

89. Cogitate  –  To cogitate is to use one’s mind and apply it to a certain activity or problem. It can also be used to express deep thought. Most imaginative writing will include the writer cogitating, for example.

90. Metanoia  –  Metanoia is the act of changing your mind, heart, and self. It is often described as changing one’s way of life, or the journey that this act takes you on.

Word Prompts 91 – 101

a photograph of wheat

91. Zephyr  –  The word used to describe a gentle, soothing breeze on a summer’s day.

91. Nefelibata  –  Nefelibata is a word used to describe someone that walks among the clouds and derives from ancient Greek. It is often used in the modern-day to describe someone that lives within their imagination and doesn’t conform to modern ideas of society, art, or literature.

92. Thunderstone  –  A type of rock, fossil, or rock formation that was once thought to have been produced when Thunderbolts hit the ground. It is an older, archaic notion.

93. Descry  –  This word has two distinct meanings. The first is to cry out or make a noise from a distance. The other is to spy on a person or event. However, it is most commonly used to describe the act of discovering with sight.

94. Nugacity  –  Nugacity is used to describe something as unimportant. For example, some people may claim entries on this list are nugacities for imaginative writing.

95. Incoterms  –  An incoterm is a rule or regulation that is used to help facilitate trade universally.

96. Troak  –  To troak is to trade, barter, or bargain outside of a monopoly, usually a government monopoly. 

97. Grey Market  –  A grey market is a place where people will buy and sell legal items or conduct legal trade at prices lower than the good’s regulatory guidelines.

98. Opia  –  This word is used to describe the feeling when you look someone directly in the eye. It is usually associated with feelings of invasion or vulnerability when associated with looking someone in the eye, as opposed to lovingly.

99. Tacenda  –  Tacenda describes something, either a person, place, or information, that is not to be made public or would be better served in the private domain.

100. Petrichor  –  The earthy, sometimes sweet smell that persists during summer rainfall. Often this word is used to denote the “smell of rain”.

101. Philocalist  –  This is a person who strives to find and appreciate the beauty in all things.

To Conclude

So, that is Lore’s list of word prompts for imaginative writing. I tried to include a wide, diverse range of word choices in the list to open up your imagination to different (and potentially new) concepts. All of the words have been cross-checked for accuracy with different sources, but for any reason, if you believe one to be described poorly, do let me know.

Accuracy and authenticity in these prompt lists on Lore is my utmost priority. With all that said, I hope to see some of these words weave their way back into common use again (instead of staying shrouded with Tacenda). Let’s give your imaginative writing the spark it needs to explode with ideas!

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Creative Writing Prompts

When the idea to start a weekly newsletter with writing inspiration first came to us, we decided that we wanted to do more than provide people with topics to write about. We wanted to try and help authors form a regular writing habit and also give them a place to proudly display their work. So we started the weekly Creative Writing Prompts newsletter. Since then, Prompts has grown to a community of more than 450,000 authors, complete with its own literary magazine, Prompted .  

Here's how our contest works: every Friday, we send out a newsletter containing five creative writing prompts. Each week, the story ideas center around a different theme. Authors then have one week — until the following Friday — to submit a short story based on one of our prompts. A winner is picked each week to win $250 and is highlighted on our Reedsy Prompts page.

Interested in participating in our short story contest? Sign up here for more information! Or you can check out our full Terms of Use and our FAQ page .

Why we love creative writing prompts

If you've ever sat in front of a computer or notebook and felt the urge to start creating worlds, characters, and storylines — all the while finding yourself unable to do so — then you've met the author's age-old foe: writer's block. There's nothing more frustrating than finding the time but not the words to be creative. Enter our directory! If you're ready to kick writer's block to the curb and finally get started on your short story or novel, these unique story ideas might just be your ticket.

This list of 1800+ creative writing prompts has been created by the Reedsy team to help you develop a rock-solid writing routine. As all aspiring authors know, this is the #1 challenge — and solution! — for reaching your literary goals. Feel free to filter through different genres, which include...

Dramatic — If you want to make people laugh and cry within the same story, this might be your genre.

Funny — Whether satire or slapstick, this is an opportunity to write with your funny bone.

Romance — One of the most popular commercial genres out there. Check out these story ideas out if you love writing about love.

Fantasy — The beauty of this genre is that the possibilities are as endless as your imagination.

Dystopian – Explore the shadowy side of human nature and contemporary technology in dark speculative fiction.

Mystery — From whodunnits to cozy mysteries, it's time to bring out your inner detective.

Thriller and Suspense — There's nothing like a page-turner that elicits a gasp of surprise at the end.

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Beyond creative writing prompts: how to build a writing routine

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  • NNWT. Or, as book coach Kevin Johns calls it , “Non-Negotiable Writing Time.” This time should be scheduled into your routine, whether that’s once a day or once a week. Treat it as a serious commitment, and don’t schedule anything else during your NNWT unless it’s absolutely necessary.
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  • Talk to friends and family about the project you’re working on. Doing so means that those close to you are likely to check in about the status of your piece — which in turn keeps you more accountable.

Arm yourself against writer’s block. Writer’s block will inevitably come, no matter how much story ideas initially inspire you. So it’s best to be prepared with tips and tricks you can use to keep yourself on track before the block hits. You can find 20 solid tips here — including how to establish a relationship with your inner critic and apps that can help you defeat procrastination or lack of motivation.

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Imaginative Writing: Exploring Different Types and Benefits

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By Happy Sharer

imaginative writing words

Introduction

Imaginative writing is an art form that allows you to explore and express your thoughts, ideas, and feelings through the written word. It’s a form of creative expression that allows you to bring your stories to life with vivid imagery and powerful language. Imaginative writing is often used to explore themes and emotions, such as love, loss, joy, and sorrow.

At its core, imaginative writing is about using the power of words to tell stories. It’s a way to explore different perspectives, create vivid settings, and develop compelling characters. In this way, it can be seen as a form of escapism, allowing you to explore different worlds and experiences without ever leaving your own.

Exploring Different Types of Imaginative Writing

Imaginative writing comes in many forms, including fiction, poetry, and non-fiction. Each type of imaginative writing has its own unique characteristics and style.

Fiction is one of the most popular forms of imaginative writing. It is a story or narrative that is not necessarily based on real events. Fiction can take many forms, from novels and short stories to plays and screenplays. Regardless of the format, fiction allows you to explore a wide range of topics and emotions. It gives you the freedom to create any kind of world you want, populated with characters of your own design.

Poetry is another form of imaginative writing. It is a form of literature that uses rhythm and rhyme to convey emotion and evoke feeling. Poetry is often seen as a form of creative expression, allowing writers to explore their innermost thoughts and feelings. It can also be used to explore larger topics, such as politics, religion, love, and loss.

Non-Fiction

Non-fiction is a type of imaginative writing that is based on real events and facts. Non-fiction can take many forms, such as biographies, autobiographies, memoirs, essays, and even journalism. This type of writing allows you to explore real-world issues and present them in an interesting and engaging way.

Tips for Crafting a Creative Piece of Imaginative Writing

Tips for Crafting a Creative Piece of Imaginative Writing

Crafting a creative piece of imaginative writing can be both daunting and rewarding. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Brainstorm Ideas

Before you start writing, spend some time brainstorming ideas. Think about topics that interest you and what kind of story you want to tell. Brainstorming is a great way to get your creative juices flowing and to come up with new and interesting ideas.

Use Interesting Characters and Settings

When creating a story, be sure to create interesting characters and settings. Characters should be well-rounded and have distinct personalities. Settings should be vivid and detailed, so readers can easily picture the world you’re creating.

Incorporate Imagery

Imagery is an important part of imaginative writing. Use descriptive language to evoke emotion and draw readers into the story. This can be done through the use of metaphor, simile, personification, and other literary devices.

Utilize Figurative Language

Figurative language is a great way to add depth and complexity to your writing. Using figurative language allows you to explore different ideas and concepts in an interesting and engaging way. Examples of figurative language include alliteration, hyperbole, and idioms.

Showcasing Examples of Famous Imaginative Writing Pieces

Showcasing Examples of Famous Imaginative Writing Pieces

Throughout history, there have been many examples of imaginative writing that have captivated readers and moved them emotionally. Here are a few examples of classic pieces of imaginative writing:

“The Raven” by Edgar Allan Poe

“The Raven” is a famous poem by Edgar Allan Poe. Written in 1845, the poem tells the story of a man who is visited by a raven, which speaks to him in a mysterious language. The poem is renowned for its dark and haunting imagery, which has captivated readers for centuries.

“The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald

“The Great Gatsby” is a novel by F. Scott Fitzgerald. Published in 1925, the novel tells the story of Jay Gatsby, a wealthy man living in New York City during the Roaring Twenties. The novel is renowned for its vivid depiction of the Jazz Age and its exploration of themes such as love, wealth, and ambition.

“To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee

“To Kill a Mockingbird” is a novel by Harper Lee. Published in 1960, the novel follows Scout Finch, a young girl growing up in the small town of Maycomb, Alabama. The novel explores themes such as racism, injustice, and courage, and is widely considered to be one of the greatest works of American literature.

An Analysis of How Imaginative Writing Enhances Imagination and Creativity

An Analysis of How Imaginative Writing Enhances Imagination and Creativity

Imaginative writing is an excellent way to stimulate the mind and encourage creative thinking. Through imaginative writing, you are able to explore different perspectives, create vivid settings, and develop compelling characters. This type of writing can also help expand your knowledge and understanding of the world around you. Here are a few ways in which imaginative writing can enhance imagination and creativity:

Stimulates the Mind

Imaginative writing stimulates the mind and encourages creative thinking. By exploring different worlds and experiences, you are able to gain a better understanding of yourself and the world around you. This can help spark new ideas and open up new possibilities.

Expands Knowledge

Imaginative writing can also help expand your knowledge and understanding of the world. By reading and writing imaginative stories, you are able to explore different cultures and societies, as well as gain insight into different points of view.

Encourages Creative Thinking

Imaginative writing also encourages creative thinking. Through writing, you can explore different ideas and concepts in an engaging and interesting way. This can help you come up with new and innovative solutions to problems, as well as generate new ideas.

Imaginative writing is a powerful form of creative expression that allows you to explore and express your thoughts, ideas, and feelings. It comes in many forms, including fiction, poetry, and non-fiction. In addition to being a great form of escapism, imaginative writing can also stimulate the mind, expand knowledge, and encourage creative thinking. Whether you’re writing a novel, a poem, or a screenplay, imaginative writing can be a great way to explore different worlds and experiences.

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Hi, I'm Happy Sharer and I love sharing interesting and useful knowledge with others. I have a passion for learning and enjoy explaining complex concepts in a simple way.

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When You Write

Essential Creative Writing Tips and Techniques

Creative writing has no written formula and no immutable laws, you just need a good imagination and good writing skills.

And you’re good to go!

Creative writing presents us with fewer tethers than other forms of writing. This means that we have more liberty when we want to express our imagination artistically.  

With all this freedom, defining and serving creative writing techniques is a bit hard, and some tips are frowned upon as they seem to infringe upon the liberties of some creative writers.

Still, some writers need guidance.

So, I have taken it upon myself to be this guide and dish out much-needed tips and discuss some creative writing techniques.

If you’ve been looking for guidance and insight, here’s a no-frills article full of practical tips on creative writing for you.

What Is Creative Writing?

Creative writing is writing that uses imagination , creativity, and mastery of the art of writing to evoke emotion in a reader.

It could be a fictional story, a nonfiction piece, or movie script, a play, a poem, et cetera. Creative writing oftentimes springs up from experimentation and good, imaginative use of knowledge and ideas.

One of the things that make creative writing different from other forms of writing is the underlying message or theme. Unlike other forms of writing, creative writing sometimes hides a message under the entertaining, saddening, or horrifying part of the written content.

Other archetypal elements of creative writing include creating an emotional connection with the reader (and sometimes evoking a response), having a deliberate point of view, using a narrative structure, and use of imaginative and descriptive language.

What Isn’t Creative Writing?

Whatever lacks the elements I just listed isn’t creative writing. Written pieces such as company reports, statements, and other professional communications aren’t regarded as creative writing.

Similarly, personal documents and communications such as emails, social media content, and personal communications all fit in the non-creative writing category.

In addition to that, research papers and pieces that are in the “Academic Writing” category do not qualify as creative writing.

Most often the type of content that I have listed is devoid of deliberate themes. Often, these types of pieces have goals similar to those prevalent in creative writing, but they’re presented differently.

But—as a reminder to myself or you, the reader—I would like to say that they’re blurred boundaries in some forms of content. For example, we can’t outrightly classify content such as blog posts as creative writing non-creative. Blog content belongs to a broader category that is as flexible as creative writing itself.

Therefore, you would have to analyze the elements of each blog post to see if they fit a particular category.

Forms of Creative Writing

Given the freedom that creative writing gets, it is just right that it takes many forms.

Here are some of the forms of creative writing:

This is one of the most popular forms of creative writing. Novels are also the first thing people think about when it comes to books (apart from academicians who are religiously into textbooks).

Novels are extended fictional works in prose that usually (or always?) come in the form of a story.

Most of them are in the range of 50,000 to 150,000 words, but some are told in less than 50,000 and others extend beyond 150,000.

Pieces that are too short to qualify as novels and too long to qualify as short stories automatically qualify as novellas and novelettes.

Novellas often fall in the range of 10,000-40,000 words, while novelettes generally have a word count of 7,500-19,000 words.

Word count boundaries are usually varied—and they are oftentimes at the discretion of the publisher or competition organizers.

Short Fiction

Short stories as the name suggests are on the other end (the shorter word count end) of the fiction word count spectrum. 

Short stories generally fall between 2,500 and 7,500 words but sometimes extend to 10,000 words.

Unlike novels, short stories tell stories with fewer characters, details, and backstories, among other deficiencies.

Then there are other forms of short fiction told in 1,000 words, and they’re called flash fiction and micro-fiction.

The unrestricted and spontaneous nature of poetry embodies the artistic multifariousness of creative writing.

Poetry is as emotional as it is rebellious—and word counts and rhyming rarely matter for poems, i.e., those in the free verse category.

There are different types of poems such as sonnets, haikus, sestinas, limericks, and free verses.

The spontaneous nature of poetry does connote lawlessness. The thing is, the different types of poetry originated from different cultures around the world and many come with rules.

However, for most of these types of poetry, the rules are adaptable. A few types such as haikus have specific rules on the number of lines or structure.

Plus, just because there aren’t many rules governing the structure, content, and length of poetry it doesn’t mean that you can brush aside the use of perfect grammar, the importance of POV, the need for a theme, and the need to evoke the reader’s emotions.

TV scripts, stage play scripts, and screenplays

This category comprises stage plays and scripts for films, television programs, and other types of video content.

A majority of content in this category has a lot in common with novels and short stories. Although different scripts have different formatting requirements, they carry a message or central theme and try to appeal to their audience’s emotions.

In a way, these scripts depart from the highly descriptive nature of novels and short stories.  There’s much more dialogue in scripts with a bit of stage or scene directions in stage plays screenplays.

Creative Nonfiction

Creative writing doesn’t always have to be works of fiction, some nonfiction also qualifies as creative writing.

Here are some of the works that can be called creative nonfiction:

  • Lyric essays
  • Autobiographies
  • Humor Writing
  • Literary Journalism

Tips and Techniques for Creative Writing

1. read widely and learn from other writers.

You can improve by focusing on looking at your writing only. If you want to be a good creative writer, you have to read.

When you read other people’s work, you discover other writing styles and get inspired in the process.

There are lots of reading resources on creative writing out there. You can find books, essays, blog articles, and video content covering different aspects of creative writing.

Some works will comprise fiction and nonfiction pieces (novels, short stories, poetry, lyrical essays. Et cetera) while others seek to cover interviews and personal essays that talk about the authors’ creative processes.

2. Benefit from Your Imagination

A wild imagination represents superiority for creative writers, especially fiction writers.

This is the only time you’re allowed to play god!

By using a crazy imagination you can conceive an exciting story, build a unique world, and come up with convincing, never-imagined-before characters.

Heck! You can even create your own language!

Be as imaginative as you can be, even going into a trance, and create a creative piece using your own rules!

3. Focus on Understanding and Improving Yourself as a Writer

You cannot improve something you don’t fully understand; therefore, you have to understand your strengths and weaknesses as a writer to become a better writer.

I wrote an article on this, explaining some general strengths and weaknesses that writers have.  As a creative writer, you have to identify problem areas such as bad sense of rhythm, dodgy flow, lack of creativity, et cetera.

As a creative writer, there are things you must have in your armory, such as a rich and relevant vocabulary, organized writing, and a unique writing style (which also happens to be the next tip on the list).

4. Develop or Discover a Unique Writing Style

Creative writers are better off seeking inspiration from other creative writers while trying to follow their path.

In short: study other writers, but develop your writing style. Take a look at all the best, and you’ll discover that most of them developed a unique style.

So, have your writing style. And, it should fit the niche you want to specialize in—if it’s horror, a befitting style. You could also focus on developing vibrant writing full of eccentric characters.

Likewise, you could become a writer who always writes in a specific POV.

5. Create Space for Creative Writing and Stick to a routine

Writing routinely and total focus are tremendously important for creative writers. If you’re a spontaneous writer who scarcely writes and only writes whenever they feel like it, you’re bound to fail as a writer!

You need to have a schedule and some working space. The ideas might come spontaneously and anywhere, but it’s hard to write without proper planning and a distraction-free setting.

It’s unproductive trying to squeeze writing into your day.

When you start writing routinely, in a ‘comfortable’ place, creative writing becomes natural. Even when you’re out of ideas experiencing writer’s block, you have to practice the habit of writing stuff daily—just write some fluff if you’re bored.

6. Know your audience

“Why do you write?”

The most popular answer to the question is, “because I love it!”

But if the question was rephrased and we asked “why do you publish your works?” the previous answer would be ‘half true.’

You write because it’s the love of your life and you publish for your audience. So, creative writing isn’t always about you, but your fans too.

You have to know what your readers are like. Even when you haven’t published a single piece, it’s easy to research readers’ interests using web-based analytics resources.

Armed with this knowledge, you can craft a piece that strikes a chord with your target audience, with a high potential of becoming a bestseller.

7. Always Start and End Strong

Our English teacher constantly reminded us that when she was going through our essays, she started with the introduction and summary before moving to the body.

“They’re the most important parts of your essay.” She’d always say.

Later, I found out that this applied to almost every form of writing.  

Your readers want your piece to either start with a bang or catch their attention. Once the reader feels underwhelmed, they won’t read all the way through.

Strong endings are just as important, but it doesn’t mean that you always have to end on a happy note. You can close on a sad note or give them a cliffhanger. 

As long as you effectively use your imagination and the end doesn’t turn out to be a clichéd one.

The Best Books on Creative Writing

  • 1. Plot & Structure: Techniques and Exercises for Crafting a Plot that Grips Readers from Start to Finish by James Scott Bell
  • 2. On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft by Stephen King
  • 3. The Writing Life by Annie Dillard
  • 4. On Writing Well: An Informal Guide to Writing Nonfiction by William Zinsser

Final Words

Writing—whatever form it takes—isn’t a simple chore, but as hard as it is, it is also fun!

The goal is always to become a better writer and learn different techniques that will make our content impactful.

Every writer should fear stagnation and continue learning. Utilize today’s easy access to resources, read, ask for help, and let your wild imagination run loose.

While there’s no fixed formula in creative writing, tips from experienced writers will help you improve in some areas.

So, always be inquisitive and reach out to other writers.

Crafting an original work of fiction, poetry, or creative non-fiction takes time, practice, and persistence.

Recommended Reading...

Crafting compelling game stories: a guide to video game writing, how to write a murder mystery: figuring out whodunit, good story starters for your next bestseller, 100 fluff prompts that will inspire creativity.

Keep in mind that we may receive commissions when you click our links and make purchases. However, this does not impact our reviews and comparisons. We try our best to keep things fair and balanced, in order to help you make the best choice for you.

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

© 2024 When You Write

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Creative Writing 101

You love to write and have been told you have a way with words. So you’ve decided to give writing a try—creative writing.

The problem is, you’re finding it tougher than you thought it would be.

You have a great story idea , but you’re not sure how to turn it into something people will read.

Don’t be discouraged—writing a compelling story can be grueling, even for veterans. Conflicting advice online may confuse you and make you want to quit before you start.

But you know more than you think. Stories saturate our lives.

We tell and hear stories every day in music, on television, in video games, in books, in movies, even in conversation.

  • What is Creative Writing?

Creative Writing is prose that tells a story featuring someone who wants something.

That person runs into trouble and begins an adventure, a journey, or a quest, faces obstacles, and is ultimately transformed—for the good or for the bad.

While Creative Writing can also educate and/or entertain, but it does its best work when it emotionally moves the reader.

  • Elements of Creative Writing

Writing a story is much like building a house.

You may have all the right tools and design ideas, but if your foundation isn’t solid, even the most beautiful structure won’t stand.

Most storytelling experts agree, these 7 key elements must exist in a story.

Plot (more on that below) is what happens in a story. Theme is why it happens.

Before you begin writing, determine why you want to tell your story.

What message do you wish to convey?  What will it teach the reader? 

Resist the urge to explicitly state your theme. Just tell the story, and let it make its own point.

Give your readers credit. Subtly weave your theme into the story and trust them to get it.

They may remember a great plot, but you want them thinking about your theme long after they’ve finished reading.

2. Characters

Every story needs believable characters who feel knowable.

In fiction, your main character is the protagonist, also known as the lead or hero/heroine.

The protagonist must have:

  • redeemable flaws
  • potentially heroic qualities that emerge in the climax
  • a character arc (he must be different, better, stronger by the end)

Resist the temptation to create a perfect lead. Perfect is boring. (Even Indiana Jones suffered a snake phobia.)

You also need an antagonist, the villain , who should be every bit as formidable and compelling as your hero.

Don’t make your bad guy bad just because he’s the bad guy. Make him a worthy foe by giving him motives for his actions.

Villains don’t see themselves as bad. They think they’re right! A fully rounded bad guy is much more realistic and memorable.

Depending on the length of your story , you may also need important orbital cast members.

For each character, ask:

  • What do they want?
  • What or who is keeping them from getting it?
  • What will they do about it?

The more challenges your characters face, the more relatable they are.

Much as in real life, the toughest challenges result in the most transformation.

Setting may include a location, time, or era, but it should also include how things look, smell, taste, feel, and sound.

Thoroughly research details about your setting so it informs your writing, but use those details as seasoning, not the main course. The main course is the story.

But, beware.

Agents and acquisitions editors tell me one of the biggest mistakes beginning writers make is feeling they must begin by describing the setting.

That’s important, don’t get me wrong. But a sure way to put readers to sleep is to promise a thrilling story on the cover—only to start with some variation of:

The house sat in a deep wood surrounded by…

Rather than describing your setting, subtly layer it into the story.

Show readers your setting. Don’t tell them. Description as a separate element slows your story to crawl.

By layering in what things look and feel and sound like you subtly register the setting in the theater of readers’ minds.

While they’re concentrating on the action, the dialogue , the tension , the drama, and conflict that keep them turning the pages, they’re also getting a look and feel for your setting.

4. Point of View

POV is more than which perspective you choose to tell your story: First Person ( I, me ), Second Person ( you, your ), or Third Person ( he, she, or it ).

Determine your perspective (POV) character for each scene—the one who serves as your camera and recorder—by deciding who has the most at stake. Who’s story is this?

The cardinal rule is that you’re limited to one perspective character per scene, but I prefer only one per chapter, and ideally one per novel.

Readers experience everything in your story from this character’s perspective.

For a more in-depth explanation of Voice and POV, read A Writer’s Guide to Point of View .

This is the sequence of events that make up a story —in short, what happens. It either compels your reader to keep turning pages or set the book aside.

A successful story answers:

  • What happens? (Plot)
  • What does it mean? (Theme: see above)

Writing coaches call various story structures by different names, but they’re all largely similar. All such structures include some variation of:

  • An inciting incident that changes everything
  • A series of crises that build tension
  • A resolution (or conclusion)

How effectively you create drama, intrigue, conflict, and tension, determines whether you can grab readers from the start and keep them to the end.

6. Conflict

This is the engine of fiction and crucial to effective nonfiction as well.

Readers crave conflict and what results from it.

If everything in your plot is going well and everyone is agreeing, you’ll quickly bore your reader—the cardinal sin of writing.

If two characters are chatting amicably and the scene feels flat (which it will), inject conflict. Have one say something that makes the other storm out, revealing a deep-seated rift.

Readers will stay with you to find out what it’s all about.

7. Resolution

Whether you’re an Outliner or a Pantser like me (one who writes by the seat of your pants), you must have an idea where your story is going.

How you expect the story to end should inform every scene and chapter. It may change, evolve, and grow as you and your characters do, but never leave it to chance.

Keep your lead character center stage to the very end. Everything he learns through all the complications you plunged him into should, in the end, allow him to rise to the occasion and succeed.

If you get near the end and something’s missing, don’t rush it. Give your ending a few days, even a few weeks if necessary.

Read through everything you’ve written. Take a long walk. Think about it. Sleep on it. Jot notes. Let your subconscious work. Play what-if games. Reach for the heart, and deliver a satisfying ending that resonates .

Give your readers a payoff for their investment by making it unforgettable.

  • 14 Types of Creative Writing 

Novels are fiction by definition. Lengths typically fall between 75,000 to 100,000 words. The author must create a story that can carry an entire book.

Novellas usually run between 10,000 and 40,000 words and typically follow a single character’s point of view. Otherwise, they tend to feature the structural and narrative elements of a full-length novel. Example: Edith Wharton’s Ethan Frome.

Short Story

Short stories, including super short micro or flash fiction—which can be as short as just a few words, are usually between a thousand and five thousand words and thus must telescope the creative writing techniques and properties of a novel. This creative writing type gained popularity during the 19th century in literary magazines, and many such magazines still carry short stories.

Narrative Nonfiction

Also known as Creative Nonfiction, this form displays techniques and literary styles such as story and tone to convey emotion in nonfiction narratives. A common example is a personal essay.

Biographies capture the stories of individuals whose lives can provide a lesson to readers.

Autobiography

An autobiography is written by the author, about the author, following a chronological account of their life.

As opposed to an autobiography, a memoir emphasizes takeaway value to the reader and is thus theme-oriented. Readers should be able to see themselves in the anecdotes chosen to show life transformation. Creative writing techniques similar to those in a novel will bring the story to life.

Poets use traditional structures such as rhyme, rhythm, and subject matter to tell their stories. They can also experiment with prose-poetry or free verse.

Song lyrics

Song lyrics are another form of poetry, the aim being to tell a story in the fewest, most evocative words possible.

Speeches require creative writing to keep audiences engaged.

A blog is usually based on the writer’s own life and interests. The best ones tell stories readers relate to and interact with.

Journaling, usually intended for the author’s eyes only, can become, in essence, a creatively written diary.

Screenwriting

Screenwriting is a form of scriptwriting specific to television shows, films, and other visual media. Screenwriting relies heavily on dialogue to tell a story, but not exclusively. The writer must include action and response takes.

Playwriting

Playwriting is a form of scriptwriting specific to theater productions, again relying heavily on dialogue and action. Playwriting also requires stage direction suggestions for lighting, sound, and actors.

  • 11 Creative Writing Tips

In How to Write a Novel , I cover each step of the writing process:

Come up with a great story idea .

That may sound obvious, but make sure it’s compelling enough to draw you back to the keyboard every day.

Determine whether you’re an Outliner or a Pantser or a Hybrid.

If you’re an Outliner, you prefer to map out everything before you start writing your novel.

If you’re a Pantser, you write by the seat of your pants, putting, as Stephen King advises, interesting characters in difficult situations and writing to find out what happens.

I cover both types and how to structure a novel here .

And though I’m primarily a Pantser, I never start writing a novel without an idea where I’m going — or think I’m going.

Create an unforgettable main character.

Resist the temptation to create a perfect character, even if it’s a superhero. Main characters must exhibit human flaws to make them relatable.

For more on character development, check out my blog posts Your Ultimate Guide to Character Development: 9 Steps to Creating Memorable Heroes , How to Create a Powerful Character Arc , and Character Motivation: How to Craft Realistic Characters .

Expand your idea into a plot.

Regardless of whether you’re a Panster or an Outliner, you need some semblance of a structure.

Dean Koontz calls this the Classic Story Structure (in his How to Write Best-Selling Fiction ):

  • Plunge the main character into terrible trouble
  • Everything the character does to get out of trouble makes things worse until…
  • All appears hopeless
  • The qualities the main character develops trying to fix the trouble make him heroic enough to succeed in the end

Conduct your research.

The best fiction must ironically feel believable.

You must research to add flavor and authenticity.

One caveat : Resist the urge to show off your research by loading your story with every esoteric fact you’ve learned. Add specifics the way you would season food. It enhances the experience, but it’s not the main course.

Choose your Voice and Point of View.

Point of View (POV) is more than simply deciding what voice to use:

First Person ( I, me ), Second Person ( you, your ), or Third Person ( he, she, or it ).

It also involves deciding who will be your perspective character, serving as your story’s camera.

The cardinal rule is one POV character per scene .

For a more in-depth explanation, read my post A Writer’s Guide to Point of View .

Start in medias res (in the midst of things).

Grab the reader by the throat on page one.

Avoid what’s called throat clearing—too much scene setting and description. Get to the good stuff—the guts of the story .

The goal of every sentence, in fact of every word , is to compel the reader to read the next.

Intensify your main character’s problems.

Do not give him a break. Remember, conflict is the engine of fiction.

(For more on conflict, read my post Internal and External Conflict: Tips for Creating Unforgettable Characters )

Your main character’s trouble should escalate with his every attempt to fix it.

Make the predicament appear hopeless.

You’ll be tempted to give your protagonist a break, invent an escape, or inject a miracle. Don’t do it!

This darkest, bleakest moment forces your hero to use every new skill and muscle gained through battling those obstacles.

The more hopeless the situation appears, the more powerful your climax will be.

Bring it all to a climax.

This is where your hero faces his toughest test yet. The stakes must be dire, the prospect of failure catastrophic.

The tension that has been building throughout crescendos during an ultimate confrontation, and all the major book-length setups are paid off.

Note: the climax is not the end. The real conclusion ties up loose ends and puts the journey into perspective.

Leave readers wholly satisfied.

A great ending :

  • Honors the reader for his investment of time and money.
  • Aims for the heart.
  • Keeps your hero on stage till the last word.

Don’t rush it.

A fully satisfying ending drops the curtain with a resounding thud.

  • More to Think About

1. Carry a writing pad, electronic or otherwise. I like the Moleskine™ notebook . 

Ideas can come at any moment. Record ideas for:

  • Anything that might expand your story

2. Start small. 

Take time to learn the craft and hone your skills on smaller projects before attempting to write a book . A book is not where you start; it’s where you arrive.

Journal. Write a newsletter. Start a blog. Write short stories . Submit articles to magazines, newspapers, or e-zines.

Take a night school or online course in journalism or creative writing. Attend a writers conference.

3. Keep perfectionism in its place. 

Reserve it for the editing and revision stage.

While writing, take off that perfectionist cap and just get the story down. At that stage, perfectionism is the enemy of progress.

  • Time to Get to Work

Few pleasures in life compare to getting lost in a great story.

Learn how to write creatively, and the characters you birth have the potential to live in readers’ hearts for years.

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Before you go, be sure to grab my FREE guide:

How to Write a Book: Everything You Need to Know in 20 Steps

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8 Creative Writing Examples That Will Spark Your Writing Genius

8 Creative Writing Examples That Will Spark Your Writing Genius

Jane Ng • 15 Nov 2023 • 6 min read

Looking for some creative writing examples to ignite your imagination? You’ve come to the right place! Whether you’re an aspiring writer searching for inspiration, or a student aiming to enhance your creative writing skills, we’ve got you covered. In this blog post, we’ll provide creative writing examples, explore different styles, and techniques, and showcase some truly inspiring pieces. 

So, let’s begin our adventure into the world of creativity and expression.

Table Of Contents

What is creative writing.

  • Types of Creative Writing Styles

Key Takeaways

  • FAQs About Creative Writing Examples

More Tips with AhaSlides

  • Six Thinking Hats
  • What is Systems Thinking?

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Creative writing is the art of using words to express thoughts, ideas, and emotions in imaginative and unique ways. It’s a writing form that goes beyond the technical and conventional aspects of writing like grammar and structure, focusing instead on capturing the essence of storytelling and personal expression.

In creative writing, writers have the freedom to invent characters, settings, and plots, allowing their creativity to flow without the constraints of strict rules or guidelines. This form of writing can take various forms, including short stories, poetry, novels, plays, and more which we’ll explore in the next section.

examples of creative writing

Types Of Creative Writing Styles

Creative writing encompasses a variety of styles, each with its unique characteristics and purposes. Here are some common types of creative writing styles:

  • Fiction: Storytelling with invented characters, plots, and settings across genres like mystery, romance, science fiction, fantasy, flash fiction and literary fiction.
  • Poetry: Expressive writing using rhyme, meter, and figurative language to convey emotions and imagery, including forms like sonnets, haikus, and free verse.
  • Drama/Playwriting: Crafting scripts for theatrical performances, incorporating dialogue, stage directions, and character development for stage productions.
  • Creative Nonfiction: Merging facts with narrative storytelling techniques to create engaging personal essays, memoirs, and travel writing.
  • Screenwriting: Developing scripts for movies and television, adhering to a specific format, and including scenes, dialogues, and camera directions.
  • Short Stories: Concise narratives exploring single themes with well-developed characters and plots within a limited word count.
  • Blogging: Creating conversational and relatable content, combining personal experiences, opinions, and information, covering a wide range of topics and formats.
  • Songwriting: Crafting lyrics and melodies to convey emotions and stories through music, blending language with melody in a unique creative form.

1/ Flash Fiction – Short Creative Writing Examples:

Ernest Hemingway’s Six-Word Story:

“ For sale: baby shoes, never worn. “

This poignant six-word story is often attributed to Hemingway, although its true authorship is debated. Regardless, it showcases the power of flash fiction to convey a complete narrative with just a handful of words. In this case, it tells a heartbreaking story of loss and unfulfilled hopes in a remarkably concise manner.

2/ GCSE Creative Writing Examples:

Here’s a GCSE (General Certificate of Secondary Education) creative writing example. GCSE creative writing tasks often require students to demonstrate their ability to craft engaging narratives.

Task: The Unexpected Visitor

“Imagine you are at home alone on a rainy evening. Your parents are out, and you’re engrossed in a book. Suddenly, there’s a knock at the door. You weren’t expecting anyone, and the hour is late. Write a short story (around 300-400 words) about what happens next.”

3/ Haiku Poetry – Creative Writing Examples:

Haikus are a traditional form of Japanese poetry known for their brevity and focus on nature and the changing seasons. Each haiku typically consists of three lines with a syllable pattern of 5-7-5, making them a concise yet evocative form of creative expression.

Matsuo Basho (1644-1694):

“An old silent pond…

A frog jumps into the pond—

Splash! Silence again.”

imaginative writing words

4/ Screen Writing – Creative Writing Examples:

Screenwriting is a unique form of creative writing that brings stories to life on big and small screens. Here are a few famous examples of screenwriting from iconic films and TV series:

1/ Movie – “Get Out” (2017) Script – Written by Jordan Peele:

Jordan Peele’s screenplay combines horror and social commentary, making “Get Out” a thought-provoking and chilling cinematic experience.

2/ TV Series – “Breaking Bad” (2008-2013) – Created by Vince Gilligan:

Vince Gilligan’s screenplay for “Breaking Bad” masterfully portrays the transformation of a high school chemistry teacher, Walter White, into a drug lord. The series is celebrated for its character development and moral ambiguity.

5/ Playwriting – Creative Writing Examples:

These plays represent a diverse range of styles and themes within the world of playwriting. They have had a significant impact on the theater and continue to be performed and studied worldwide.

1/ “Romeo and Juliet” by William Shakespeare:

This timeless tragedy explores themes of love and conflict between the Montagues and the Capulets. It’s one of Shakespeare’s most famous plays, known for its poetic language and unforgettable characters.

2/ “Death of a Salesman” by Arthur Miller:

Arthur Miller’s classic play delves into the American Dream and the disillusionment of a traveling salesman named Willy Loman. It’s celebrated for its exploration of the human condition and the pursuit of success.

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6/ Personal Essay – Creative Writing Examples:

Personal essay examples showcase how writers can draw from their own life experiences to create engaging narratives that resonate with readers.

1/ “A Journey to Self-Discovery”

In this personal essay, the author reflects on a transformative backpacking trip through the mountains. They recount the physical and emotional challenges faced during the journey and how these challenges ultimately led to profound self-discovery and growth. The essay explores themes of resilience, introspection, and the power of nature to inspire personal change.

2/ “Lessons from My Grandmother’s Kitchen”

This personal essay takes readers into the author’s childhood memories of spending time with their grandmother in the kitchen. Through vivid descriptions of cooking rituals and family gatherings, the author reflects on the valuable life lessons and cultural heritage passed down through generations. The essay touches on themes of family, tradition, and the importance of preserving cultural identity.

7/ Blogging – Creative Writing Examples:

Here are a few famous examples of blogs known for their creative and engaging writing styles:

1/ Wait But Why by Tim Urban:

Wait But Why is known for its in-depth articles and entertaining infographics that explore a wide range of topics, from science and technology to philosophy and human behavior.

2/ Cup of Jo by Joanna Goddard:

Cup of Jo is a lifestyle blog that features thoughtful and relatable content on relationships, parenting, travel, and more. Joanna Goddard’s writing style is warm and inviting.

8/ Songwriting – Creative Writing Examples:

Here are three famous examples of songwriting known for their creative and impactful lyrics:

1/ “Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen:

Queen’s epic and operatic “Bohemian Rhapsody” features intricate lyrics that tell a complex narrative and create a timeless rock masterpiece.

2/ “Yesterday” by The Beatles:

“Yesterday” by The Beatles is a classic ballad with introspective lyrics that explore themes of nostalgia and lost love.

3/ “What’s Going On” by Marvin Gaye:

Marvin Gaye’s “What’s Going On” is a socially conscious song with lyrics that address issues like war, racism, and environmental concerns.

imaginative writing words

Through the power of words, writers can transport readers to distant worlds, evoke deep emotions, and share profound insights. Throughout this exploration of creative writing examples, we’ve witnessed the diverse tapestry of possibilities, from captivating personal essays to timeless poetry, from gripping screenplays to enchanting song lyrics.

Whether you’re a seasoned writer or just starting your creative journey, the key lies in unlocking your imagination and letting your ideas flow freely. So don’t forget that AhaSlides provides a dynamic platform for creative writing, offering interactive features that can enhance your storytelling. Whether you’re crafting a captivating presentation, conducting a workshop, or seeking feedback on your work, AhaSlides empowers you to engage with your audience in new and exciting ways.

FAQs About Creative Writing Examples

What is a good example of creative writing.

One famous example of creative writing is the opening paragraph of Charles Dickens’ novel “ A Tale of Two Cities “: “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of Light, it was the season of Darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair, we had everything before us, we had nothing before us, we were all going direct to Heaven, we were all going direct the other way—in short, the period was so far like the present period, that some of its noisiest authorities insisted on its being received, for good or for evil, in the superlative degree of comparison only.”

Is a verse example of creative writing?

Yes, a verse can be a good example of creative writing. Creative writing encompasses a wide range of forms and styles, and poetry or verse is certainly one of them.

Ref: Study.com

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Fantasy and Imagination Vocabulary Word List (310)

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    58. Praxis - This word is used to describe translating an idea you have into action. For example, for imaginative writing, you may translate one of these word prompts into a flash fiction idea. 59. Edlritch - Eldritch is a synonym for something spooky, eerie, or unsettling. 60.

  2. 1800+ Creative Writing Prompts To Inspire You Right Now

    Here's how our contest works: every Friday, we send out a newsletter containing five creative writing prompts. Each week, the story ideas center around a different theme. Authors then have one week — until the following Friday — to submit a short story based on one of our prompts. A winner is picked each week to win $250 and is highlighted ...

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    33 Imaginative Essay Topics and Fun Prompts. Yes! We have some excellent imaginative essay topics and writing ideas here. With fun prompts covering topics like field trips to the moon, talking to animals, and fairy-tale sequels, students will have all sorts of chances to let their imaginations—and their pencils—run wild.

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    Creativity. 25 Creative Writing Prompts to Ignite Your Creativity. Ignite your creativity with 50 unique creative writing prompts, designed to inspire your next masterpiece. Brooks ManleySeptember 1, 2023March 7th, 2024. Creative writing is a vast and dynamic field that offers a platform for individuals to express their ideas, emotions, and ...

  5. 7 Imaginative Narrative Writing Prompts To Create The Perfect Story

    Prompt 6 - Saturday. After a long day at work, Amy comes home later than usual and is worried about the kids and her husband. She gets into the house, but everyone is shocked to see her and wouldn't talk to her, even her husband. Amy thinks it's a game until she walks into her room and sees herself lying on the bed.

  6. Imaginative Writing: Exploring Different Types and Benefits

    Imaginative writing is a powerful form of creative expression that allows you to explore and express your thoughts, ideas, and feelings. It comes in many forms, including fiction, poetry, and non-fiction. In addition to being a great form of escapism, imaginative writing can also stimulate the mind, expand knowledge, and encourage creative ...

  7. 48 Incredible Imaginative Writing Prompts » JournalBuddies.com

    48 Incredible Imaginative Writing Prompts. Yes! We have for you two incredible lists of imaginative writing prompt ideas — With imaginative writing prompts, you can create a safe space in your classroom where your students are willing to open up and write pieces that are serious, silly, emotional, compelling, or downright funny. Take a look ...

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    7. A farmer's son from a small village at the edge of a magical kingdom discovers a map and a sword. If you're a fantasy junkie, you'll love this one. It's probably more suited to an extended work (e.g., a novel) than a short story, but if you're clever, then you could definitely make it work as either one.

  9. Essential Creative Writing Tips and Techniques

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    Imaginative Writing is often seen as an easier section in the IGCSE English Language exams, but it is often neglected in the classroom. Effective imaginative writing, just like essay writing and analysis, requires a clear plan and structure and powerful use of creative writing techniques. While most IGCSE English students understand basic ...

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    14 Types of Creative Writing Novel. Novels are fiction by definition. Lengths typically fall between 75,000 to 100,000 words. The author must create a story that can carry an entire book. Novella. Novellas usually run between 10,000 and 40,000 words and typically follow a single character's point of view.

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    5 Key Characteristics of Creative Writing. Creative writing is marked by several defining characteristics, each working to create a distinct form of expression: 1. Imagination and Creativity:Creative writing is all about harnessing your creativity and imagination to create an engaging and compelling piece of work.

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    This way of writing is really useful when we need to write narrative and imaginative essays for tests or just for practice. In this chapter, we're going to talk about the important parts of creative writing, the kinds of questions you might see on tests, and how the things you learn in non-fiction writing can help you write amazing stories. 1.

  17. Fantasy and Imagination Vocabulary Word List (310)

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  18. creative writing

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    What is creative writing? The answer can be simple, but breaking it down is far more useful. Learn more and gain some insightful tips for yourself, as well! ... original writing that expresses ideas and thoughts in an imaginative way. It's the "art of making things up" or putting a creative splash on history, as in creative nonfiction. In any ...

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  22. Imaginative vs Creative: Deciding Between Similar Terms

    The words we use can have a significant impact on how our message is received. In this section, we will explore the proper usage of the words "imaginative" and "creative." How To Use "Imaginative" In A Sentence "Imaginative" refers to the ability to form new ideas, images, or concepts in the mind.

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    To make the writing prompt clear and easy to read, click on the existing text and customize it. To add a heading, ... or any other imaginative scenario. Wrapping up. Microsoft Designer is a game-changer for educators looking to inspire their students' creativity. The AI-generated images, customization options, and easy access to your creations ...