Shutterstock / smikeymikey1©Sometimes it only takes one small idea to inspire a short story, poem or novel. The changing seasons are always a good place to start, and we take a look at some summer themes now.
Thinking Ahead
Here on the Fiction Desk, we’re always thinking ahead.
We always advise sending your story in six months before the issue you’d like it to appear in, which could mean you are writing summer stories in winter!
That doesn’t mean you can’t write them when the sun is shining, and hold on to them until the appropriate time
If you’re planning stories set in summer, here are some themes and ideas that may help.
Summer Time
Here are some prompts to help get you into ‘summer’ mode. Hope you find them helpful!
Summer fayres. Bunting. Cream teas and home baking.
Summer food – strawberries at Wimbledon. Barbecues. Ice-cream.
Candy floss at the fair.
Sunny days and lighter nights.
On The Beach
Midsummer. St Swithin’s Day.
End of term. Sports day. Prize giving.
Days at the beach. City breaks. Holidays in the sun. A story set on a cruise?
Grand hotels. B&Bs. Tents.
Swimming. More time in the garden. Mowing the lawn.
Family holidays. Sand in the sandwiches. Are we there yet?
Summer In The Past
We welcome stories with a historical setting, as well as stories set in the present day.
So, summer in the past – whose story would you like to tell?
Your story can be set anywhere, too – home, or abroad.
Whatever The Season
Whatever season you’re writing for, always keep our reader at heart.
What would she like to read about?
What type of characters would appeal to her?
We look for a mix of genres; your summer story might be a romance, or a cosy crime; a story with lots of drama, or something more reflective.
Best of luck!
For more ideas for your fiction writing, take a look at some other story starters!
Lucy Crichton Better known as “Fiction Editor Lucy”, I am always on the look-out for the very best short stories, poems and pocket novels. As well as sourcing enjoyable content, I enjoy working with our established contributors, encouraging new talent, and celebrating 155 years of “Friend” fiction!
