Writers Often Write About The Unexpected

 

Some writers are known for their unusual story lines and their edgy, unconventional characters. Often these characters are hard to forget, such is their unforgettable image planted in the mind of the reader. 

Writers also use tension and suspense to maintain a reader's interest. Writers use imagery and fine details to engage the reader and often throw in something quite unexpected to ensure the reader stays engaged. 

Encourage student writers to create a list (in their writer's notebooks) of unexpected or unusual events that have taken place across the course of their lives. Think about a surprising turn of events, or a mysterious or inexplicable occurrence.

 Remind them they can use these listed events to create a piece of writing. They can apply an unexpected event to themselves, or link it to a character of their choosing. They can place the event anywhere they like and have it happen at the time that suits the story they wish to tell. Alert them to the mood and reaction of the character when unexpected things happen. Such responses are important in developing the character to whom these things are happening.

Look for unexpected and unusual events as you read from the works of various authors, and mindfully share such extracts with student writers. Show them how you would use such crafting of words in your own writing by writing in the style of a mentor author. Young writers might then be encouraged consider borrowing from the style of such writers when creating their own pieces. 

These unusual or unexpected events often launch a story -they  are not the central focus of the story. The aim here is not to recount every minute detail of the initial event, but to use its energy to go somewhere equally surprising. 

The writer uses the event to propel the story forward. It may serve  to explain what happens next. Writers frequently use such events as inspiration for creating exciting stories.  It is important for young writers to be cognisant of this. Surprising events in their own lives could lead them to create a whole new story...



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