Hot Words at a Writing Retreat
This year’s WriterPath Retreat closed with an exercise that generated some terrific “hot” words.
We sat in a circle as each writer pitched their concept, character transformational statement, log line, thematic significance statement–we didn’t care what technique they used. We simply wanted them to briefly convey the essence of their story in a way that made us want more.
Everyone had 2 minutes both for their pitch and to receive feedback. Then we came back around a second time, giving everyone a chance to refine their pitch based on earlier feedback. Everyone was on the spot and so incredibly brave. Lots of apologies as a way of warming up until people understood their fears were costing them precious time.
When listening to all the varied story ideas and concepts and significance of their pieces, I was struck at how certain words really peeked my interest. I call those words “hot” words. They’re sexy, provocative, intriguing, beguiling, mysterious and catch attention — a good thing.
- secrets
- danger
- flee
- stolen
- collide (the exact right active verb is always a plus)
- heartbreaking
- crumbling
Share your “hot” words on Twitter using #hotwords.
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