Have you ever picked up a seashell and wondered where it’s been? Or held a pair of sunglasses and imagined the stories they could tell? One of my favorite ways to shake up a writing slump or explore new story ideas is to start small—really small. Like… object-sized.
Today’s prompt is all about reimagining the ordinary. I want you to pick a summer object—something simple and seasonal like a beach towel, popsicle stick, pair of flip-flops, or even a garden hose—and give it a secret backstory.
Why This Works for Writers
Giving objects a hidden history helps you:
- Strengthen your world-building muscles
- Develop empathy and creative thinking
- Spark new characters or plots from unexpected angles
- Practice writing from unusual perspectives
Plus, it’s just fun.
Writing Prompt:
Pick a Summer Object – Write Its Secret Backstory
- Choose a summer-themed object (real or imagined).
- Ask: Where did it come from? Who owned it before? What hidden purpose might it have? Did it witness something strange?
- Now write its secret history. Go weird, go heartfelt, go magical, go mysterious—whatever feels right.
Need a Few Ideas?
- A beach umbrella that was cursed during a summer solstice storm.
- A cooler that keeps things cold… because it’s a portal to an ice realm.
- A pair of flip-flops once worn by a runaway mermaid.
- A sandcastle bucket that once belonged to a sea witch’s apprentice.
- A sunhat that stores someone’s forgotten memories in its woven brim.
Try This Twist:
Write the story from the object’s perspective. What does the sunhat see? What does the beach ball remember? What does the garden gnome regret?
Final Tip:
Don’t overthink it. Let your imagination stretch. This is the kind of playful creativity that can lead to powerful story seeds.
🖋️ Your Turn:
What summer object are you giving a backstory to? Share your mini story or opening lines in the comments—or tag me if you post it elsewhere!
Happy writing ^_^
Sara's Writing Sanctuary 