Think about all the objects in THIS BOY'S LIFE

Generative Craft Exercise #3: Object Lesson

Choose an object—a tool, a candle, a computer, a painting, a bracelet or ring (anything); or choose an animal: a moth, a weasel; or choose something: a hand, a hair in the sink… Then quickly free associate, think on the page. Shoot for momentum. Don’t slow down to think too much. First, describe it. Make us see it and feel it – engage as many senses as possible. Then: What does this object remind you of? Make a metaphor or simile of this object: What is like this object in your life? See if you can extend this metaphor throughout the meditaion. What is the past life of the object? Who are the people and places associated with this object? What kind of person are you in the presence of this object? What is your past life in connection to this object?

Once you’ve emptied as many of these quick free associations onto the page, then go back and see if there are any thematic patterns in the many different observations, descriptions and reflections, then attempt to make these patterns more clear, more resonant. Attempt to make the piece, the written piece, as well as the object, speak to an audience larger than yourself.

Length: No less than two double-spaced pages, no more than three double-spaced pages.

Make two copies of your story (Part II). One to give to me, one to share with another person in class.