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Writing Exercise April 9, 2025
Writing Exercise April 9, 2025
Applying Symbolism in Writing
April 9, 2025
Exercise 1 (Beginner Friendly)
The Symbolic Object
Objective: Practice using a single object as a symbol to convey deeper meaning in a short scene.
Instructions:
1. Choose one of the following objects:
o A broken watch
o A flickering candle
o A locked door
o A withered flower
o A stray cat
2. Write a 250-350 word scene where this object plays a symbolic role.
3. Without explicitly stating its meaning, use the object to reflect a character’s emotions, a central theme, or a turning point in the story.
4. Aim for subtlety—let the reader infer the symbol’s significance rather than explaining it outright.
Example Prompt:
Your character receives a broken watch from a loved one who has passed away. How does the object shape their emotions and actions in the scene?
Exercise 2 (Advanced Challenge)
Layered Symbolism in a Short Story
Objective: Develop a short story that integrates multiple layers of symbolism to reinforce a central theme.
Instructions:
1. Select a theme such as:
o Loss and renewal
o Isolation and connection
o The passage of time
o Power and corruption
o Innocence and experience
2. Choose two or more symbols (e.g., a recurring color, an animal, an element of nature, a specific object) and integrate them into your story.
3. Write a 500-700 word short story where these symbols subtly reinforce the theme.
4. Ensure that the symbols evolve or gain deeper meaning as the story progresses.
Example Prompt:
A character moves into a house near the ocean after a personal tragedy. The tides, a locked chest in the attic, and a persistent seagull all come to symbolize different aspects of their healing process.
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