Posted on: Sun, 4 Nov 2001
Reposted on: Sat, 6 Nov 2004

This is the fourth "Remembering" exercise.

(You can find the previous exercises at http://www.internetwritingworkshop.org/pwarchive/topics.shtml#remember )

The point of these exercises is to learn to draw from our own experiences - our most elemental resource as writers. By remembering key moments, special feelings or moments, in our lives, we are better able to describe what our characters are dealing with.

For example, I will never, I hope, be chased through a jungle by a predator - but I have been terrified when chased by a neighbourhood dog. The experiences were different, but the fears have much in common. (And I can also remember how, after the fact, I wished I *had* dealt with the situation - I can give my protagonist stronger nerves to deal with the threat.)

I will never win an Olympic gold medal - but if I remember the feeling of doing well in a local competition, I can imagine what that must feel like.

In the previous weeks, we have dealt with serious topics: beauty, fear, peace. This week, I'd like us to focus on something less dramatic, but no less important. This week, we are to remember a moment when we had fun - be it as a child playing a game, or as a grown-up in a relaxed moment. Think back to an enjoyable moment or activity, then tell us about it.

Be honest, don't embelish. On the other hand, remember to use strong words, to involve the senses, so others can share the experience.

Every week, the exercise says to "Have fun" - that is truer than ever this week! Fun is not abstract, not fancy; fun comes from relaxing and living in the moment. So relive that moment (doing so can only help us all as writers!) And don't worry too much about definitions - if the memory brings a smile to your lips, then it surely meets the standard of "fun"!

So, to summarize the exercise: in 300 words or less, describe a fun moment in your life.

The current and previous exercises are archived at: http://www.internetwritingworkshop.org/pwarchive/index.shtml

Have fun!