Writing exercise

This weekend, spend some time outside (if possible — I know “spring” doesn’t always mean good weather; but you can also do this exercise by sitting in a cafe, pub, etc., as long as you’re near a window).

Write two pages about a stranger you see — on the street, in the park, near you at the movies, etc.

The idea is, whether you’re working on a novel already filled with characters or whether you’re starting a new piece from scratch, it’s great to take some time to observe those around you. So pick someone and start writing. Begin with a physical description of this person, then fill in his/her background as you imagine it. Envision what this person was doing in the place and time you saw him/her, and write about why. If you’re immersed in a writing project, see if there’s any room in it for this new character — and if not, see if this person (and your observations) leads you into a new story.

Enjoy.