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IWW
Practice-W Exercise Archives
Exercise: Generation Gaffes
These exercises were written
by IWW members
and administrators to provide structured practice opportunities for its
members.
You are welcome to use them for practice as well. Please mention that
you found
them at the Internet Writers Workshop
(http://www.internetwritingworkshop.org/).
Prepared by Katherine Highcove
Posted on: January 13, 2018
Posted on: October 1, 2023
In 400 words or less, show a scene in which an uncomfortable topic is
suddenly introduced into a family gathering. Indicate how the subject
is brought up and how the family members react.
______________________
Every family has a taboo topic. Some families have several. Think
back on your own family circle and recall the times that an uninformed
newcomer, an outspoken child, a senile elder, or an ornery in-law
spoke up and started a situation.
This prompt could be a catalyst for interesting dialogue. Let your
characters speak to each other as your imagination or your memory-
hears them. Perhaps some are prone to use slang, poor grammar and
profanity. Perhaps others strive to remain civil, aloof and composed.
Others remain silent, but their body language says it all.
As the scene plays out, give clues why the topic made waves, and imply
the results of the discussion. Has anything changed or been resolved?
______________________
Critique: How did you react to the scene? Would you have felt
comfortable at this gathering? Why or why not? Would you opt to read
more about this family?
Web site created by
Rh al Nadeau and
the administrators of the Internet Writing Workshop.
Modified by Greg Gunther.
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