Intro to Creative Writing
From Prompts to Plot Twists: How Our Creative Writing Journey Unfolded
As we bring this week’s Masterclass to a close, let’s take a moment to breathe, celebrate, and appreciate how much we’ve achieved this week. Seriously, can we talk about how amazing this class has been? Every single one of you brought your A-game, and it’s honestly so inspiring to see how passionate, creative, and hungry you all are to grow as writers. From discussing the heart of creative writing to exploring storytelling fundamentals, crafting dynamic characters, and finding your unique voice, each of you has embraced this journey with enthusiasm and determination. The creative sparks ignited in this class are truly inspiring. Thank you for showing up, for being open, and for trusting the process.
I have to say, one of my favorite moments this week was our wheel of writer aspirations. Seeing how diverse your goals are, from writers experiencing block to writers breaking down the complex, to aspiring writers building entire worlds was such a reminder of how versatile creative writing can be. But here’s the thing: no matter which path you choose, it all starts here. With your ideas. Your words. Your courage to create something from nothing. That’s the magic, and you all have it in spades.
A special shoutout to our flash fiction activity participants! Look at how far we’ve come… from flash fiction to a full-fledged short story! It’s like moving from a snapshot to a single chapter in a book. From describing the sky to wrapping up suspenseful moments, your contributions brought life and vibrancy to every story thread. Each turn of the wheel, each input, whether it was Lyza’s depiction of the sky, Lirian's choice for Carrie’s next move, or Tin's chapter wrap-up, demonstrates the collaborative magic of our group. You’ve shown that storytelling isn’t just about words; it’s about connection, emotion, and imagination. To my incredible students… Naomi, Hanna Mabel, Tristan Dyln, Patricia, Zaren Yzabelle, Max, Erin, JJ, Lyza Kim D., Ginnie, Lirian, Aihia Kashieka, Diego, Sheena, and Tin; you have made this experience unforgettable. Check out how all the pieces from Classes 1-3 came together!
Shoutout to our prompt challenge participants, too! You alll took the task of revealing your characters without backstory and ran with it. Like, how did you manage to pack so much personality, style, and energy into so few words? My mind is blown. Check out all the responses.
And let’s not even talk about the short story challenge. Lyza Kim may have snagged the win (and deservedly so), but every single entry was powerful, unique, and full of potential. You’re not just learning—you’re growing as writers. I see it, and I hope you do, too. Each word you write takes you one step closer to your dreams. See Lyza's entry below:
In spoon theory, a spoon represents both the physical and mental energy required to complete what I like to call "quests." These are just daily tasks, but they're much more amusing when called that. We all have spoons we can use to complete quests. Most people have an unlimited supply, but others, like me, have very limited spoons to spare.
The story of my life could be summed up using the last nine hours of today. For four hours, I was passionately engaged in my creative pursuits—my main quest. I got to stick to it for a while, but then life handed me side quests that lasted more than four hours. As a result, I had to cram this short story into the few minutes I had left before the day ended. And then, writer's block usually kicks in for me, but not today. Being around fellow creatives must have inspired me!
I’m not complaining about the side quests, though. They are fulfilling for the most part and essential for the upkeep of daily life. I enjoy doing them. However, they require spoons—a lot of spoons, sometimes. Today in particular, my side quests involved taking care of sick loved ones, endless chores, and a trip to the pharmacy (OH NO, THE OUTSIDE!!!). If I had ten spoons at the start of today, I’m down to just one tonight—which I’m spending right now writing this.
I often wonder, "Am I lagging behind?" My peers are building families and careers, and people younger than me have honed their talents better than I ever have. Some are published or professional writers. They can spend as many spoons as they want practicing their craft, while I can only spare one a day. My progress feels like a snail’s crawl compared to theirs.
But that’s just it! Comparison is the thief of joy, as Roosevelt said. Disclaimer: I’m not saying this to “positive mental attitude” my way through life. I acknowledge that I’m neurodivergent, and that reality is inherently challenging and, at times, traumatizing. But everyone has their own journey to take, and I can crawl like a snail as much as I want toward the finish line. Before this workshop, I hadn’t realized how much grace and compassion I owed myself.
Tolkien, whom I consider to be an immortal being because his works have withstood the test of time, began writing The Lord of the Rings in 1937. It wasn’t published until 1955—18 years later. Maybe 2042 will be my year, too!
And as we move forward, I want you to remember this: writing isn’t just about getting it perfect; it’s about showing up, being brave, and letting your voice be heard. Some weeks will be tough, and some weeks you’ll feel like you’re unstoppable. Ride both waves because both are a part of the process. Your stories matter. Your voice matters. Keep writing, experimenting, failing, and trying again. It’s all part of what makes you a writer.
So, until the next talk, my students, keep that creative energy alive. Journal your ideas, try a new writing prompt, or just daydream a little longer than usual. Whatever you do, don’t stop creating. You’ve already proven how much you can do, and I can’t wait to see what’s next.
Stay creative, stay inspired, and most of all, stay you. ✨ See you in the next class!
If you missed the session or want to explore writing techniques in more detail, you can request a copy of "Intro to Creative Writing" deck by contacting us.