Shutterstock / Yuganov Konstantin©There is so much to be inspired by at this time of the year and, with Christmas on the horizon, we’ve made it this week’s writing prompt.
If you’ve got the desire to put pen to paper and submit your own short stories to the “Friend”, these snippets might help.
Christmas post
Sending and receiving cards and gifts. Perhaps it’s a handwritten card, or a personalised e-card. What about a card from a mystery sender? Does the card or gift go astray in transit?
For a historical story, maybe your character is one of the first Christmas card artists? Or, for a more modern approach, does your character write the poems that are printed on the inside?
Letters to Santa Claus. One of the most important jobs to do before Christmas for children around the world! What will they wish for?
Traditions old and new
What traditions does your character and their family observe? Are there any obscure traditions from the old days that have largely been forgotten? That would make an interesting historical story!
Do your characters have strange traditions that are unique to them?
What about traditions from around the world? What about the Giant Lantern Festival in the Philippines or The Yule Goat in Sweden?
Ghosts of Christmases past
Speaking of traditions, ghost stories were a staple of Christmas in bygone times. While “A Christmas Carol” has survived to the 21st Century, it’s largely the exception.
Winter, especially at this time of year, with its long, dark nights, is the perfect setting for a spooky tale.
Just remember to keep it light-hearted and ambiguous if it’s a ghost story for “The People’s Friend”!
Community and togetherness
At this time of the year, everybody makes an effort to ensure that nobody goes without, even Ebenezer Scrooge (with a bit of “gentle” persuasion!). Is there a story about a community coming together to support each other?
Activities to raise money for charity, donating toys, setting up foodbanks, knitting blankets, providing shelter.
Christmas stories and messages of kindness go hand in hand.
