As writers we seek to create words that leave the page and create an image in the mind of readers. Not a static image, but a moving picture that draws the reader into a corporeal experience. Russian born American writer Ayn Rand said it this way. "Words are a lens to focus one's mind." If the reader walks through a field with our character we want them to hear the crunch of snow under boots, or feel the stiff winter breeze make eyes water, smell the wood smoke in the crisp air, and when we spot the cabin in the distance we want them to draw a conclusion. In other words, we work to engage the senses and sometimes it’s not as easy as one would think.
Today’s writing prompt is and exercise in the sense of touch. It is designed to help practice putting into words tangible details of what our hands feel and the thought process as we take in that information. For instance, if you touch an orange, what does it feel like? It’s easy to come up with words for how it tastes: Tangy, tasty, sweet, sour, delicious, or juicy. But how does it feel? If I tossed one to you and you caught it, you might say it feels like a ball. But what of the texture and other features? Is it smooth, rough, or somewhere in between? What about its weight? What is its shape? Is it big or small? Wide or narrow? Squishy or hard? Solid or springy?
Sense of touch writing prompts
For this writing prompt, I offer a couple of possibilities.
1) For this first writing exercise it is helpful to have a buddy. Tell them you will be playing a game where you will be blindfolded and will have to guess what you are touching. Have them select random items and place them in a box. I suggest at least 10 things and a box at least the size of a shoe box.
- Get a pedicure
- Go for a walk in the rain
- Get a massage
- Try waxing some part of your body
- Give yourself a facial
Practicing the expression of the thought process in relation to the sense of touch will help prepare you to bring life to your writing. Have fun with this one!
