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Pre-PiBo Day 5: Molly O’Neill Looks at the World with New Eyes
October 30, 2014 7:05 am
by Molly O’Neill
It’s day [whatever] of PiBoIdMo when it finally happens . . . you run out of ideas.
The blank page. It mocks you. And you’re panicked, because you’ve already plundered every cute/amusing thing your kids/pets have ever done, looking for inspiration. You’ve already turned your own experiences into rollicking, rhythmic (but never rhyming!) texts. You’ve perhaps even transformed Buzzfeed videos about unexpected animal friendships into whimsical odes to human emotions.
So now what? Well, now comes inspiration in the form of one of my favorite quotations:
“The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes.” —Marcel Proust
Even though this quote is nearly 100 years old, it’s meaningful, especially for a writer. In fact, Proust probably made this observation because as an author himself, he knew well that reaching past one’s initial, obvious, or cliched ideas to a place of true, fresh, personal creativity is among a writer’s greatest challenges—and greatest triumphs, when achieved. So, in Proust’s spirit, here are 5 tips to train your eyes, make new discoveries, and ultimately shape your words as a writer.
- Warm up your vision. Take one of your favorite ideas from a previous day’s writing and spin it into something fresh and new by changing one key element—like the point of view, the setting, or even a character’s identity. Switch the narrative voice from first person to third person, or turn from a contemporary setting to one that’s exotic or faraway or historical or fantastical. You can even turn human characters into animals and vice versa, or swap who the reader will see as the story’s hero/villain. And since the shape of your story was already established in your earlier creation (whether it was a full manuscript or just a simple outline), you’re temporarily free from thinking about plot and can instead play with transformation-enhancing details of voice and language. You may even realize that you enjoy the resulting version of the story more than your original! (An aside—one of my favorite books on writing covers similar ground: exploring how shifts in perspective can spark your creativity: check out 99 Ways to Tell a Story by Matt Madden.)
- Train your new eyes in real life. For one week, outlaw yourself from taking even a single photo. Every time you reach for your phone or other device to take a photo, force yourself instead to capture the moment differently, using only words! At the end of the week, select your favorite of these moments-turned-into-words on Facebook or Instagram and ask your friends and family if they can “see” the moment through your words alone. (If you like, snap a photo of your screen or notepad for more effective/visual social sharing.)
- Watch for details that make you ask “why.” Stories don’t always arrive in your mind, fully-imagined. Often, they start with a simple-but-intriguing image or detail, and the author’s curiosity to explore the story behind it. So study everyday life for places where paradoxes happen and tensions meet—for moments are memorable and yet unexpected at the same time. If you’re writing a humorous story, these details can sometimes add a layer of ridiculousness or absurdity that picture book readers will delight in. But more importantly, they make readers ask “why” enough to keep on turning pages. For example, imagine: Best friends who are suddenly not speaking, and no one knows why. A castle with a doorway that’s too small for any of its inhabitants to walk through. An abandoned home with a gift-wrapped package waiting at the door. With any of these jumping-off points or thousands of others like them, you can often reveal an interesting story to yourself (and your future readers) if you ask enough whys or what-ifs.
- Reverse the story-making process with visual storytelling. Many writers are accustomed to thinking that text always precedes art. But exercises in visual storytelling can engage your creativity in entirely different ways—making art an integral part of your creative process. To try this type of hybrid creativity, explore Storybird, which houses a curated collection of high-quality, original art and offers free and simple creative tools for authors. Simply select an image that catches your eye, and then use the art to enable your writing in one of countless ways—it can help spark or inspires story ideas; help you “unlock” or puzzle your way through a story, offering visual clues and perspective to offset your own imagination and talent with words; or simply enhance a story you’ve already been imagining. You can keep a story private, and share the link only with those you choose (like critique partners or friends/family); or you can add your stories into Storybird’s public library to get swift feedback from millions of young readers worldwide who use the platform.
- Remember that less is more. In art or photography, “negative space” is the white space in and around an image’s subject that helps viewers focus. For writers, there is sometimes a temptation to think that more words = better. But just like negative space can enhance artwork, sometimes a few well chosen words will say far more than an endless ramble. Fewer words means that each carries more power, so their precise selection and arrangement matters more. Similarly, remember that what’s not on the page is just as important as what is, and if a detail of your story can be portrayed through artwork, then it rarely needs to be repeated in the text. Your job as an author is to decide what does not belong in a story, as much as what does!
Here’s hoping you arrive at the end of these exercises—and PiBoIdMo—with powerful new eyes that would make Proust proud. Questions? Thoughts? Please share them, and your own suggestions to fellow writers seeking creative vision and unique perspectives, in the comments.
Molly O’Neill is Head of Editorial at Storybird where she works at the intersection of story, art, technology, and new publishing opportunities for authors and artists. Previously she was an editor at HarperCollins, where she launched the careers of talented authors and illustrators including bestselling phenom Veronica Roth (author of Divergent), heartwarming award-winner Bobbie Pyron (author of A Dog’s Way Home), and the distinctive narrative and visual voices of S. J. Kincaid (author of Insignia), Hilary T. Smith (author of Wild Awake), Sarah Jane Wright (illustrator of A Christmas Goodnight), and many others. Follow Storybird on Twitter for daily thoughts on art, writing, and creativity.
Posted by Tara Lazar
Categories: PiBoIdMo 2014, Picture Books
Tags: Molly O'Neill, Storybird
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I love using art (other people’s) to inspire stories. Thanks for the Storybird intro!
By Laura Purdie Salas on October 30, 2014 at 7:12 am
Well said, Molly. Let’s challenge ourselves to dig deep this year and move beyond the cliche.
By marciecolleen on October 30, 2014 at 7:15 am
These are some really great ideas to use when I am stuck. Thanks!
By lindaschueler on October 30, 2014 at 7:16 am
What wonderful creative advice for PiBoIdMo – or any time! I love the tip of changing key elements of a story to create something new and see it with new eyes. I’m looking forward to exploring the Storybird platform, too.
By kateywrites on October 30, 2014 at 7:16 am
Great suggestions. They should help me reach my 30 ideas goal. Thanks.
By Jim Chaize on October 30, 2014 at 7:17 am
Swap who the reader will see- Genius! I already have some ideas in my pocket for our 30 day challenge. Thanks for the insight!
By jodimckay on October 30, 2014 at 7:22 am
Thank you so much for your post! I loved it all and will definitely be putting these ideas to good use next month. I especially loved the end where you mention that as a writer, I also need to decide what doesn’t belong in the text. So incredibly true… And tough!
By Kim Chaffee on October 30, 2014 at 7:25 am
Molly, Thanks for sharing your great ideas. I often write from photos. I will try writing without a filter.
By ManjuBeth on October 30, 2014 at 7:28 am
I love the exercise of writing from photos! Doing it without a filter is a great adaptation. Or you could try describing something that’s offscreen in the photo — the home the person lives in, for example, or how they would describe a relationship with a certain family member, or the first snowstorm of the year in that particular setting, etc, etc. Same idea, but with a twist!
By Molly O'Neill on October 30, 2014 at 12:08 pm
Wow! These ideas are fantastic! The one that interests me most as an A/I is number 3. It’s a little farther than where my very visual self tends to go, and I am ready for adventure! Thanks, Molly!
By julie rowan zoch on October 30, 2014 at 7:30 am
Yes, you’ve captured it perfectly! PiBoIdMo is all about pushing past your normal “comfort zones” to find new pockets of creativity within yourself. Good luck!
By Molly O'Neill on October 30, 2014 at 12:09 pm
Lots of great tips to get the ball rolling!! Thanks Mollie!
By Nat Keller on October 30, 2014 at 7:30 am
Molly,
Thanks for the eye training exercise reminder. You always share great tips!
By lindamartinandersen on October 30, 2014 at 7:37 am
🙂
By Molly O'Neill on October 30, 2014 at 12:10 pm
Molly, Great post! Current brain research actually shows the more photos people take, the less the remember the action happening because they are not as present taking information in through the senses! Thanks for sharing.
By DianeKHower on October 30, 2014 at 7:41 am
How interesting! That makes total sense. I find brain science to be SO fascinating, don’t you?
By Molly O'Neill on October 30, 2014 at 12:11 pm
Thanks for the great perspective! I must remember to look this up on day xx.
By Sue Poduska on October 30, 2014 at 7:45 am
My eyes are wide open (or they will be after another cup of tea!). Thanks, Molly for all of these amazing pointers. I just signed up for Storybird!
By mariagianferrari on October 30, 2014 at 7:55 am
Awesome!
By Molly O'Neill on October 30, 2014 at 12:11 pm
The idea of asking “why?” should be a wonderful prompt, because after all, this is what kids do every day. Thanks, Molly!
By Susan Latta on October 30, 2014 at 8:04 am
Your suggestion of “details that make you ask why” may just be the thing that gets me over the hump…! Thanks for the great post. 🙂
By Jodi Moore on October 30, 2014 at 8:07 am
Glad to hear it!
By Molly O'Neill on October 30, 2014 at 12:11 pm
thanks for making me see the world of PB writing in a different way and for introducing me to Storybird
By Sharon Giltrow on October 30, 2014 at 8:26 am
Wow, this was a great post! Already getting me fired up!
By Talitha Shipman on October 30, 2014 at 8:28 am
Oooh, I’ll have to check out Storybird. Thanks!
By Debra Shumaker on October 30, 2014 at 8:28 am
Thank you, Molly and Marcel!
By Hayley B on October 30, 2014 at 8:34 am
Thanks for the introduction to Storybird — what an amazing resource!
By rowenarae on October 30, 2014 at 8:34 am
THANK YOU, Molly!!! I love these tips. Saved them in a special folder. LESS IS MORE! YEAH!
By Robyn Campbell on October 30, 2014 at 8:35 am
P.S. I have poetry on Storybird.
By Robyn Campbell on October 30, 2014 at 8:36 am
YEAH! to both your comments! 🙂 P.S. Follow me on Storybird so I can watch for your poems, please; I’m @molly over there.
By Molly O'Neill on October 30, 2014 at 12:13 pm
Taking the same story and shifting the perspective from the original main character was probably the best piece of advice for me. Really forces new dialogue and motivation. Thank you!
By Kelly Campbell on October 30, 2014 at 8:41 am
Thank you Molly! I’m saving this post to reread, reread, reread!
By Jennette Mutolo on October 30, 2014 at 8:47 am
Great article! Thank you!
By jport on October 30, 2014 at 8:47 am
Thanks, Molly! Very inspirational – my mind is already starting to devise a story for why the door is too small for its castle inhabitants.
By Ann K on October 30, 2014 at 8:48 am
That one made me curious, too, even while I was writing it! Make us a great story about it!
By Molly O'Neill on October 30, 2014 at 12:13 pm
Okay, NOW I’m ready to go. Bring it on!
By Michelle Heidenrich Barnes on October 30, 2014 at 8:58 am
Superb reminders to stay alert and enjoy the process of creativity.
By Doris Fisher on October 30, 2014 at 9:00 am
Great ideas, Molly. I will definitely be putting these to use!
By pathaap on October 30, 2014 at 9:03 am
What great and practical suggestions. Thanks.
By Linda Ford on October 30, 2014 at 9:15 am
Thank you! You provided training, resources, and tips in a clear, easy to follow manner. I will be using them. Thanks again!
By gweddle on October 30, 2014 at 9:16 am
I believe she said “never rhyming”, -and yet rhyming is as much a part of me as breathing.
By Nancy Colle on October 30, 2014 at 9:17 am
My comment was a little tongue-in-cheek. Many writers who are new to picture books think they can only write in rhyme, because they have childhood memories of rhyming stories. So for them, rhyme can be unnecessarily limiting, thus advice you’ll hear commonly echoed from publishing folk, that rhyme isn’t always the best approach. But if you know that rhyme is an essential element of your voice as a writer, then rhyme on!
By Molly O'Neill on October 30, 2014 at 12:16 pm
Thank you for taking the time to explain.
By Nancy Colle on October 30, 2014 at 1:27 pm
I will definitely use some of these. I love number 2!
By thestoryladyva on October 30, 2014 at 9:17 am
Molly, what a perfect quote to start off this PiBoIdMo challenge! Great tip to capture a photo in words, and thank you for letting us know about Storybird. Yesterday, I saw something unusual that made me ask “why?” and it didn’t occur to me to turn that into a story. Now, I’ll try to be more aware of those everyday moments.
By Melanie Ellsworth on October 30, 2014 at 9:25 am
Love the reminder to ask, “Why?” That will be key to this month.
By Joanna on October 30, 2014 at 9:25 am
These were great suggestions. I especially liked number 2.
By Alice Fulgione on October 30, 2014 at 9:26 am
Super suggestions, especially when you think you are running out of gas!!Thanks! 🙂
By seschipper on October 30, 2014 at 9:32 am
Lisa Connors
These are fantastic ideas that I’m excited to practice! Thank you!
By lmconnors on October 30, 2014 at 9:37 am
Feeling slightly giddy/sick at the thought of searching for the true gems in the storypile. Thanks for tricks to help play with and flesh out my ideas, Molly
By Wendy on October 30, 2014 at 9:38 am
Oh Wendy! Xxxxx
By loriannlevyholm on October 30, 2014 at 10:03 am
I think “slightly giddy/sick” is a common state for writers! 🙂 Here’s hoping for many gems in your storypile!
By Molly O'Neill on October 30, 2014 at 12:17 pm
I like your idea about taking a picture with our mind. Some of my favorite memories are these mental snapshots. Thanks, Molly!
By deborahholtwilliams on October 30, 2014 at 9:38 am
Thanks for the useful tips. Can’t wait to try Storybird!
By Louann Brown on October 30, 2014 at 9:40 am
If I ever needed suggestions on how to get my brain thinking differently, you just provided them. Wow! Totally new perspective on how to handle writer’s block–thank you!
By Janet Disotell on October 30, 2014 at 9:43 am
So good to hear. Wishing you a very creative month of writing and idea-generating!
By Molly O'Neill on October 30, 2014 at 12:18 pm
Great ideas!
By kpbock on October 30, 2014 at 9:50 am
Wonderful ideas! Thank you!
By Elizabeth Brown on October 30, 2014 at 9:53 am
Thanks, Molly for sharing Story Bird.Looks like fun ahead for PiboIdMo. with the art to inspire me!
By Barbara Cairns on October 30, 2014 at 10:02 am
Wonderful, tangible post. I love the quote and the ensuing ideas. Thank you.
By loriannlevyholm on October 30, 2014 at 10:02 am
All of your tips are great, but #3 is really intriguing! I look forward to collecting those kinds of details.
By Jacqueline on October 30, 2014 at 10:16 am
Great ideas–thanks, Molly! Can’t wait to check out out Storybird and also show my daughter!
By kroberts24 on October 30, 2014 at 10:23 am
Awesome! Storybird is a great site for kids: family-friendly, safe, and very positive. Hope you and your daughter will both enjoy it! You can even take turns writing a picture book together using the collaboration tool.
By Molly O'Neill on October 30, 2014 at 12:19 pm
Oooh, thanks for the heads up on Storybird, Molly! Images always trigger my imagination and I’m planning on visiting whether or not I get stuck. Often getting outdoors and vegging for awhile opens up the imagination too. :0)
By Donna L. Sadd on October 30, 2014 at 10:25 am
Wow. I could spend hours on Storybird. Thank-you, Molly, for sharing such a wonderful, inspiring resource. I might just complete my PiBoIdMo challenge on Storybird…
Is there a video component so that stories can be told or animated?
Cheers to Tara and to new eyes!
By Peyton Leung on October 30, 2014 at 10:25 am
Welcome aboard and glad that you’ve found Storybird! No videos at the moment but we’re busy growing and developing new tools and resources all the time, and welcome suggestions from our users. You can follow me over there as @molly and I’ll watch for your stories.
By Molly O'Neill on October 30, 2014 at 12:21 pm
Molly, I ma saving all these great story sparkers. You have ignited my passion for finding ideas with new eyes.
By kathalsey on October 30, 2014 at 10:29 am
Can’t wait to use Storybird. Great ideas. Thanks!
By Dawn on October 30, 2014 at 10:32 am
Thanks for pre-arming us with tools to get us unstuck, Molly!
By Patricia Toht on October 30, 2014 at 10:33 am
Storybird sounds great! I can’t wait to try it! 🙂 -Lily Stejskal
By storyfairy on October 30, 2014 at 10:33 am
It was great to learn about Story Bird — thank you for that and the other words of inspiration.
By Christy Mihaly on October 30, 2014 at 10:33 am
Thanks Molly for a wonderful inspiring post. Great ideas for the month ahead.
By bevbaird on October 30, 2014 at 10:46 am
Storybird is awesome 🙂
Thanks, Molly!
By kroberts24 on October 30, 2014 at 10:48 am
Molly – #2 is a real challenge. What a great way to get the juices flowing.
By Lauri Meyers on October 30, 2014 at 10:49 am
Love these suggestions! This is a post I need to read more than once-so much good stuff here. Thanks!
By Sandy Perlic on October 30, 2014 at 10:49 am
Storybird is wonderful! I just got my 3 homeschooled kids started 🙂 Thanks for the tips—I especially like #3..asking the why behind things. Asking why is a natural question for kids–being more kidlike and asking why will definitely help us be better kidllit writers.
By kirsticall on October 30, 2014 at 10:55 am
Lots of homeschoolers use Storybird! (Some homeschool parents even set up teacher accounts because it lets them create assignments, give grades, etc.) Let us know how it works for you and your kiddos–you can follow me over there; I’m @molly.
By Molly O'Neill on October 30, 2014 at 12:22 pm
The NOT taking picture challenge is a fabulous idea! I’m going to try it!
By gasamie on October 30, 2014 at 10:56 am
Loved this post! Printed it out and pinned it to my bulletin board. Thank you!
By Nancy Armo on October 30, 2014 at 10:57 am
Great ideas everyone of them! I’m bookmarking this, because I know I have to go digging sometime next month.
By JEN Garrett on October 30, 2014 at 11:01 am
Love the Proust quote and all of your suggestions–especially the writing from art one. This post is definitely a keeper–Thank you!
By Buffy Silverman on October 30, 2014 at 11:08 am
Five awesome tips…Thank you! 🙂
By Ashley Bohmer on October 30, 2014 at 11:12 am
Can’t wait to try Storybird. Thanks for the tip, Molly!
By Lori Alexander on October 30, 2014 at 11:17 am
Great ideas! Thanks for sharing, Molly.
By Sherry Walz on October 30, 2014 at 11:25 am
Great tips! I will be reviewing some manuscripts and turning them upside-down! Just recently found Storybird, but will be learning more about it, also.
By Maria Bostian on October 30, 2014 at 11:29 am
I love the quote, and #3. Asking the whys and what-ifs will really push your creativity, and help you write great stories.
By Sandy Powell on October 30, 2014 at 11:34 am
Great suggestions. I had not heard of Storybird before. I’ll look it up. Thanks!
By Judy Cox on October 30, 2014 at 11:34 am
Love this list! Can’t wait for Saturday…;~)
By Donna L Martin on October 30, 2014 at 11:36 am
Great suggestions, Molly. Thank you! I agree that asking “why” is a great way to get story ideas.
By danielledufayet on October 30, 2014 at 11:37 am
Can’t wait to try these, especially Storybird.
By Dee Knabb- can't wait to try these, especially Storybird. on October 30, 2014 at 11:37 am
Oh my goodness, I tried Storybird quite awhile ago and completely forgot about it! Thanks for the plug 🙂 I’ll go check it out again. And thanks for the ideas on getting ideas. I especially like the idea of NOT taking a picture (*ouch) and trying to explain it. (And congrats on those successes at HarperCollins!)
By Marcy P. on October 30, 2014 at 11:40 am
Awesome, Marcy (and thanks)! Our picture book tools are great for writers, but if you haven’t visited for awhile, we also have a poetry tool, and a longform/serialized format for novels. Give me a follow over there (I’m @molly) and I’ll watch for your stories!
By Molly O'Neill on October 30, 2014 at 12:25 pm
Storybird looks amazing…how did I not know about this? 🙂 Thank you for a new source for ideas!
By Laura K Zimmermann on October 30, 2014 at 11:50 am
Yay!
By Molly O'Neill on October 30, 2014 at 12:25 pm
Storybird seems like an awesome source for inspiration, contemplation, and even relaxation. Good post!
By Sherri Jones Rivers on October 30, 2014 at 11:57 am
Well said, Sherri. Hope you find all that and more when you use Storybird!
By Molly O'Neill on October 30, 2014 at 12:26 pm
This is a great post with such useful information and ideas! Thanks!
By kdveiten on October 30, 2014 at 11:57 am
Thank you Molly for the resource, Storybird, and for suggesting we see things differently. Expand your mind, I say.
By Pam Miller on October 30, 2014 at 11:59 am
I played with Storybird a while back. I need to go back and try it again and get my kids to play with it, since they are doing PiBoIdMo too!
By Darshana on October 30, 2014 at 11:59 am
Hope you and your all have a successful PiBoIdMo–I love that you’re making it a family project! P.S. You can even take turns writing a picture book together on Storybird using the collaboration tool.
By Molly O'Neill on October 30, 2014 at 12:28 pm
What an incredibly helpful post. Thank you Molly! Such great starting block to unglue ourselves. T.
By tanjabauerle on October 30, 2014 at 12:04 pm
This is so good! Must keep for reference! (The no photos will be the hardest for me, might try that when I don’t have a newborn to stare at all day long!)
By Juliana Lee on October 30, 2014 at 12:06 pm
Ah, yes, that would make it especially hard! Congrats on your new inspiration and hurrah for a new future reader in the world!
By Molly O'Neill on October 30, 2014 at 12:29 pm
Great tips, Molly. Thanks for your post. Lately, I’ve been browsing Pinterest for unique illustrations. I often come across images that spark my interest and get me thinking about new stories.
By Rachel H on October 30, 2014 at 12:08 pm
Definitely–I love Pinterest and sites like Instagram for story sparks, too. P.S. Storybird is on Pinterest and Instagramtoo, sharing lots of visual inspiration — give us a follow!
By Molly O'Neill on October 30, 2014 at 12:31 pm
Super suggestions all! Love the Proust quote and also the idea of white space, both in our art and our writing. So much good material here. Know I’ll be referring back to it often in the coming month — Thanks!!! Marty McCormick
By Marty McCormick on October 30, 2014 at 12:08 pm
I like to draw out my ideas before putting them on paper. Didn’t know about Storybird, but going to check it out. Great tips.
By Stephen Martin on October 30, 2014 at 12:34 pm
Thank you, Molly. This and the work on storybird.com is really amazing.
By apserione on October 30, 2014 at 12:37 pm
Molly! Of course! Create ideas from ideas! I love it! I imagine most times we do it naturally, without even thinking about it. But during PiBo when racking the brain and you think your out of ideas, what do we do but try to think of brand spankin’ NEW ideas. I LOVE this post! When stuck, it is much easier to think of ideas from our ideas!
By Carrie Charley Brown on October 30, 2014 at 12:41 pm
Super tips! Thanks for those, Molly!
By Rebecca Colby on October 30, 2014 at 12:48 pm
Whoops – add me to the list of Storybird delinquents who forget to pop over there and see what’s new on a regular basis! Will definitely add those tools into my PiBoIdMo story planning. Thanks Molly!
By Cathy Ballou Mealey on October 30, 2014 at 12:58 pm
We’ll be glad to see work from you pop up on Storybird, Cathy–and yeah, lots of exciting new stuff happening all the time. Give me a follow there; I’m @molly. And happy creativity month!
By Molly O'Neill on October 30, 2014 at 1:24 pm
I’m going to be more alert to the “why’s” that come up in my head. Why is it called a driveway? Shouldn’t it be a parkway? But wait–don’t you drive on a parkway? Not all are story idea worthy, but the alertness you suggest will certainly help. Thanks!
By Pat Miller on October 30, 2014 at 1:03 pm
I love the idea of NOT bringing my camera or using my phone to click pics. all the time. You are right.. It forced me to write a much better description. Thanks for the Storybird info too.
By Karen Lawler on October 30, 2014 at 1:03 pm
Wow! I am bookmarking this post because I know I’ll want to come back to it again and again for inspiration. What you wrote about “negative space” also applying to writing really resonates with me. And I am excited to check out Storybird. Thank you!
By gabisnyder on October 30, 2014 at 1:07 pm
Awesome on all counts, Gabi!
By Molly O'Neill on October 30, 2014 at 1:23 pm
Great workout tips… warming up, training, watching, reversing, and remembering. Is it nap time, yet? Storybird, I’m flying your way!
By LovableLobo on October 30, 2014 at 1:30 pm
These are fantastic ideas. I really liked #2.
By jdewdropsofink on October 30, 2014 at 1:56 pm
Wonderful ideas, Molly! Many thanks for directing us to the best camera: our own eyes! It really is all about training our brains to see differently and pirating our own ideas is a good first step.
By Anne Bromley on October 30, 2014 at 2:27 pm
“Pirating your own ideas” is the perfect description–and it gave me a laugh! Happy writing/creative stealing month! 🙂
By Molly O'Neill on October 30, 2014 at 2:30 pm
Less is more. Less is more. Less is more. I think this needs to be my new mantra for November!
By Carol Federoff on October 30, 2014 at 2:33 pm
Great ideas! As a child I used to love looking at the models in catalogues and imagining lives for them.
By dianneyoung65 on October 30, 2014 at 2:43 pm
What a great post!! I will try to incorporate these wonderful ideas in the next 30 days and after. I especially like the challenge of not taking a photo for a week and trying to describe the moment on FB or social media strictly with words. Capture the details with words… which is what we, as writers, should be practicing daily. Story telling through photos…another great tip. Thank you for taking the time out to share with us!
By Kelly Vavala on October 30, 2014 at 2:46 pm
Turning human characters into animals and vice versa is a great idea! I can’t wait to try it!
By Nancy Piper Davis on October 30, 2014 at 2:54 pm
I like number 2 the best. I’ll remember that when I get stuck!
By Rebecca on October 30, 2014 at 2:57 pm
I love Tip 3 about asking Why? I think Why takes my stories to places better than what I first imagined. It’s such a great reminder to me because even though I’ve used “Why?” in the past, I have a tendency to forget about it until I’m several revisions in. I think I need to make me a WHY? poster for my writing space 🙂
By Penny Parker Klostermann on October 30, 2014 at 3:00 pm
Thank you for sharing Storybird with us, Molly. I’m also going to share it with our school librarian. She is always looking for new ways to incorporate technology into her lessons.
By Kristen Yakubisin on October 30, 2014 at 3:03 pm
Great strategies – I esp. like the “going without a camera”. Makes me look harder/closer/more deeply at things. and people.
By Sue Heavenrich on October 30, 2014 at 3:14 pm
Thank you Molly. I have to frequently remind myself that well-chosen words are better than ‘rambling’ (which I tend to do!).
I learned a great exercise in a course last year where you take a piece of writing and pare it down by half, then half again, and so on, until you are left with the most spare and concise writing – often leaving only the most powerful and emotive words.
By Teresa Daffern on October 30, 2014 at 3:27 pm
Ooops! I used number three to start a story (while gazing at traffic beyond the floor to ceiling windows on a bright sunny day at the public library). I will tuck this idea away until December 1st. But, I’ll return to your post often during PiBo because your tips quickly provided such wonderful inspiration. Thanks.
By Yvonne on October 30, 2014 at 3:36 pm
Thanks for the inspiring post! I love the suggestion for using an older story as a framework.
By hethfeth on October 30, 2014 at 3:36 pm
Thanks Molly! I think I’ll take another peek at all those pictures of my kids and grandkids with an eye for the stories, real or not, that they conjure up. I’m looking forward to exploring Storybird.
By Carol Nelson on October 30, 2014 at 3:41 pm
Thank you, thank you, thank you for this! As someone who often has problems with wondering if an idea is good enough (let alone trying to come up with one,) and just getting words down on the page, this will be very useful to me.
I definitely plan on checking out storybird.
By angelcat2014 on October 30, 2014 at 3:53 pm
Thanks for sharing Storybird with us. It sounds fun and I hope it will get my creative juices flowing.
By Nadine Gamble on October 30, 2014 at 3:57 pm
I love these ideas! Thank you…
By Deirdre Englehart on October 30, 2014 at 4:18 pm
Inspiring! My word reducer: 1) sketch the scene, 2) write only what’s left to be said, 3) shred sketch.
By Jenifer Heidorn on October 30, 2014 at 4:31 pm
Great ideas! Thanks for sharing!
By Christine M. Irvin on October 30, 2014 at 4:32 pm
Looking through different eyes is a good reminder! You’ve prompted an idea. . . I have boxes of old glasses frames that I am going to label with character types. . .when I slip on those frames I will have to think like that character. At SCBWI LA, Judy Schachner started her keynote by telling us she was a raccoon. Now THAT is staying in character!
By Kathryn Ault Noble on October 30, 2014 at 4:40 pm
For actors, “new eyes” may come through method acting, to inhabit the character they will portray. It is more challenging for us to inhabit a rabbit who likes to wear floppy hats, but perhaps that is more or less what you’re getting at. Thanks, Molly!
By Mike Karg on October 30, 2014 at 4:41 pm
Cliches are hidden in some of my ideas. How frustrating when I find them out after I’ve written the first draft. Moving past them this November!
By Shena Ashcraft on October 30, 2014 at 4:52 pm
Those are excellent exercises for generating story ideas! This is definitely a Pinnable post (because I get the feeling I’ll be referring to it when my creative juices are running low). 🙂 Thank you!
By teresarobeson on October 30, 2014 at 5:02 pm
This is a WONDERFUL entry with tons of good advice- And I love the Storybird website! So glad to know about it now.
By John Strong on October 30, 2014 at 5:24 pm
Super post – LOVE the idea of writing instead of taking pix. WILL use that one!
By Joanne Sher on October 30, 2014 at 5:24 pm
Thank you for these creative tips!
By Stephanie Geckle (@SPGeckle) on October 30, 2014 at 5:24 pm
Molly, Great post! Thanks for your time and suggestions. I plan to capture more moments by writing, instead of the camera.
By Beth Blee on October 30, 2014 at 5:30 pm
How much do I love that you quoted Proust? Oh so much! What a great primer; it’s like a mini-masterclass.
By Kelly Ramsdell Fineman on October 30, 2014 at 6:17 pm
Molly, these were fabulous suggestions! I’m bookmarking this!
By Jarm Del Boccio on October 30, 2014 at 6:19 pm
What great tips, thanks!
By Cassandra Federman on October 30, 2014 at 6:25 pm
Saving this post! Awesome thanks!
By Freckled Daisy Creations on October 30, 2014 at 6:25 pm
Great tips Molly! Now to head to Storybird…
By erikammon on October 30, 2014 at 6:45 pm
I learned about StoryBird some time ago but had forgotten about it. I will probably sign up this time.
Thanks, Molly, for the interesting, creative, fun ideas.
– Lynn A. Davidson
By Lynn A. Davidson on October 30, 2014 at 7:09 pm
What a great quote from Proust! Thanks for sharing that one.
And love this: “Stories don’t always arrive in your mind, fully-imagined. Often, they start with a simple-but-intriguing image or detail, and the author’s curiosity to explore the story behind it.” So true, and so important to remember for all this idea conjuring that’s about to happen.
By Caroline on October 30, 2014 at 7:17 pm
Thank you so much for the ideas. They are wonderful!
By Joyce Tucker on October 30, 2014 at 7:18 pm
Great information! Thanks so much for your insights, Molly!
By Beth Barrett on October 30, 2014 at 7:28 pm
Great suggestions. (Priya Gopal)
By Priya on October 30, 2014 at 7:33 pm
Thanks! This is going in the “save it” file for inspiration!
By Daryl Gottier on October 30, 2014 at 7:42 pm
Less is more. Thanks for the reminder. Actually this post is filled with gems. Awesome!
By Pia Garneau on October 30, 2014 at 7:47 pm
Thank you for the tips, Molly. I very much appreciate your help!
By Doris Stone on October 30, 2014 at 7:48 pm
Love love love the Marcel Proust quote – thank you, Molly, for sharing that, as well as your own story spark tips. My golden PiBoIdMo nugget today? Your Storybird suggestion…I can’t wait to fly over and check it out. 🙂
By viviankirkfield on October 30, 2014 at 7:54 pm
Really liked the quote from Marcel Proust because I’m always, always looking for new ways to improve my writing.
By Jenifer McNamara on October 30, 2014 at 8:38 pm
Thank You, loved the idea of changing elements and asking what if to get additional inspiration. Also thank you for your Storybird idea.
By Donna Rossman on October 30, 2014 at 8:39 pm
Nice to see you and meet you, Molly! We use Storybird all the time in our school library. Very awesome to meet one of the good people behind it. Thanks for all you do!
By mwinne2 on October 30, 2014 at 8:49 pm
Awesome ideas. Definitely bookmarking your post.
By Kara Stewart on October 30, 2014 at 9:31 pm
Great suggestions, Mollie. I’m sure I’ll revisit this later when I’m facing a blank page! As for your #5: it’s like art. Carve away anything that doesn’t look like your story! 🙂
By Jane Heitman Healy on October 30, 2014 at 10:15 pm
Molly, great ideas to train our eyes! Especially like #2 about making a word picture! Thanks for the post!
By Janie Reinart on October 30, 2014 at 10:37 pm
Thank you for the wonderful ideas!
By Joan Kassmann on October 30, 2014 at 10:44 pm
My kids have had a lot of fun using Storybird in their classroom. I will have to check it out for myself. Thank you for your fabulous ideas and suggestions.
By Celeste Elbert on October 30, 2014 at 11:00 pm
Great tips Molly. Thanks for introducing me to Storybird and the 99 ways to tell a story. I love (and need) the inspiration! And the word picture concept…wow…I’ve already started doing that. Very helpful.
By Mary Zychowicz on October 30, 2014 at 11:08 pm
Love the Marcel Proust quote…will stick with me. Great post, thank you!
By Jamie Deenihan on October 30, 2014 at 11:10 pm
So many helpful tips!! Thanks Molly!
By Jill Siegel on October 30, 2014 at 11:37 pm
Wonderful exercises! I will have to try them all during PiBoIdMo. Thank you for the fabulous post.
By Maria Oka on October 30, 2014 at 11:38 pm
My favorite part: Watch for details that make you ask “why.” Love this! I’ll have to check out Storybird too. Thank you!!
By Susie Sawyer on October 30, 2014 at 11:41 pm
Thanks, Molly, for these great ways to find ideas!
By Tina Cho on October 30, 2014 at 11:52 pm
I definitely will file Molly’s post where I can access it quickly on the day that I’m running out of steam. Great practical advice! Thanks
By Kimberly Sebastian on October 31, 2014 at 12:05 am
Thank you for sharing! I am excited to check Storybird out.
By klmcmorranmaus on October 31, 2014 at 12:11 am
I’m definitely going to check out Storybird and 99 Ways to Tell a Story. And the Marcel Proust quote is going into my idea notebook to inspire me this month. Thanks, Molly!
By Debbie Austin on October 31, 2014 at 12:25 am
Molly…what a great post. Looking to develop those ‘Proust-proud eyes’ this year through PiBoIdMo. I particularly love your point on white-space in the “story,” as is found in illustration. Thanks for the inspiration. – Damon Dean
By SevenAcreSky on October 31, 2014 at 12:50 am
Love this!! I am going to try and see things with”new eyes.” Thanks for the five tips.
By Ashley Bankhead on October 31, 2014 at 1:04 am
Love your tips to “train your eyes, make new discoveries, and ultimately shape your words as a writer” Thank you 🙂
By Dawn Young on October 31, 2014 at 1:10 am
Can’t wait to look into Storybird. So agree, say more with less and let the pictures tell the story the words didn’t include. Great tips.
By Keila Dawson on October 31, 2014 at 1:37 am
‘Make Proust proud.’ I love this quote, Molly. Thank you for posting the great jump starters. Story ideas often come to me in rhyme. After having read your clear advice for rhythm but never rhyme I think this November I will unwrite the rhyme intentionally to see where it might take the voices in my idea well. Your former editor is showing in this post and I love that you’re sharing it!
By imartypoet on October 31, 2014 at 4:35 am
Molly, love your quote and your reminder about Storybird. My students love to use it and I guess I never thought of using it myself for inspiration! Thanks for your great ideas in this post!
By debkrygeris on October 31, 2014 at 5:46 am
Molly,
I checked out Storybird. What a great place to go for ideas. Pictures are really idea starters for me, so thanks so much for creating such a great collection all in one place. I know I’ll be going back to Storybird frequently.
Thanks Molly!
By Cindy S on October 31, 2014 at 7:36 am
Sometimes words just jump off the page for me. The way they are put together, I have to write them down. They resonate for some reason. What a great way to inspire writing. Trying to figure out why that specific combination of words speaks to me and then turning it into a story.
By Becky P. Hurd on October 31, 2014 at 9:13 am
Oh, I like thinking of the negative so that the positive pops.
By yetteejo on October 31, 2014 at 9:47 am
Thanks for letting us know about Storybird. I can’t wait to check it out!
By Sandra Lawson on October 31, 2014 at 9:56 am
These are also GREAT ideas for teachers to use with students who are stuck and aren’t sure what to write about. Thanks.
By Stacey Shubitz on October 31, 2014 at 10:46 am
Thank you for sharing!
By Anita Banks on October 31, 2014 at 11:48 am
As a photographer as well as a writer, this post hits home. I am a huge fan of macro photography, up close and personal. A photographer sees with new eyes – as do all creatives. May your eyes be open to all the wonderful ideas just waiting to be discovered. All the best, my fellow PiBoIdMo peeps.
By stephseclecticinterests on October 31, 2014 at 11:52 am
What terrific exercises for achieving “fresh eyes.”
By Lori Dubbin on October 31, 2014 at 12:00 pm
Great post…love the asking why tip.. I am quick to see things, but not always to ask why; I assume I know why without thinking creatively or from a kid’s perspective. Also, the idea to ban phototaking and write instead is great….my kids groan when I take out my camera so maybe they would groan less, though they groan a bit when they see me taking notes for a new poem as well!
By Rebekah Hoeft on October 31, 2014 at 12:23 pm
Great ideas! I will have to return to these when, as you say, I hit “that day” in PiBoIdMo!
By januaryfae on October 31, 2014 at 1:12 pm
I love the idea of using Storybird for drafting and/or dummying up a story. Thanks for sharing this!
By Carrie Finison on October 31, 2014 at 1:23 pm
Thank you, Molly. This is such a great post to keep in my ‘back pocket’ for the inevitable dry day(s) that awaits me!
By Tracy Molitors on October 31, 2014 at 1:59 pm
Thanks for those bright, therapeutic ideas, Molly. I’m printing them out!
By MickiGinsberg on October 31, 2014 at 2:00 pm
Definitely going to try looking at everything with new eyes! Janet
By Janet Halfmann on October 31, 2014 at 3:05 pm
I’m definitely going to try out Storybird…just hope I don’t get sucked in for hours on end and forgo the writing!
By Jennifer Sommer on October 31, 2014 at 3:52 pm
Excellent advice! I love Storybird! And I love your thoughts for future use of the fabulous illustrations available!
By Sue Frye on October 31, 2014 at 5:04 pm
Sometimes a few of your own doodles on a page can get the wheels turning. Thank you!
By Anna Levin on October 31, 2014 at 5:08 pm
I loved the ideas, especially interested in trying negative space and storybird. Only heard of storybird yesterday. I like multilayered collaging poetic images in photoshop to generate ideas as well .
By pearlz on October 31, 2014 at 5:36 pm
Wow Molly! What fantastic ideas – wanted to stop right now and try some of them. I loved the idea of “negative space” for a writer. I will be going to “Storybird” for sure. Thank you.
By Vicki Wilke on October 31, 2014 at 5:37 pm
Thank you for the wonderful post.
By Katie on October 31, 2014 at 6:41 pm
Thanks for helping grease the wheels, Molly.
By teresa m.i. schaefer (@TMISchaefer) on October 31, 2014 at 9:22 pm
Wow!
By Lori Mozdziez on October 31, 2014 at 10:02 pm
Great post. Molly! I love using photos to help inspire my stories and love looking for the “why” behind things.
Thank you for the information about Storybird… I will definitely be checking it out
By saputnam on October 31, 2014 at 10:09 pm
Fun to think about all the ways to interpret the phrase “new eyes”…..
By hmmmmm on October 31, 2014 at 10:15 pm
Molly: The post by Marcel Proust resonates with me. I will continue to use my *powerful eyes* for writing ideas. Thank you. ~Suzy Leopold
By Prairie Garden Girl on October 31, 2014 at 10:37 pm
Wow. Thank you so much for the link to Storybird.
By Maria Marshall on October 31, 2014 at 10:42 pm
As someone who loves using instagram I am looking forward to experimenting with the practice of writing about something instead of taking a picture of it. Thanks for these great ideas.
By cmwritergirl23 on November 1, 2014 at 1:13 am
Thank you for the post Molly. All your suggestions are really getting me thinking. Several ideas surfaced just while reading them!
By Angela Turner on November 1, 2014 at 1:50 am
Thanks for all the great ideas! Sometimes thinking and playing with ideas is more valuable than actually writing.
By Andrea on November 1, 2014 at 7:25 am
Thanks for your post, Molly! I love your ideas, especially the photo Instagram tip.
By Loni Edwards (@LoniEdwards) on November 1, 2014 at 7:43 am
Thanks Sometimes we forget to look around
By Carolyn Rohrbaugh on November 1, 2014 at 8:04 am
Thanks for reminding us to use different perspectives when approaching our stories.
By Tracey M. Cox on November 1, 2014 at 10:22 am
These ideas inspire me to try a different approach, and it resonates with me that fewer words lends more power to each. Thanks, Molly!
By hollyruppel on November 1, 2014 at 11:00 am
There are some great exercises here. The first one I am going to try is capturing the moment in words. Inspiring ideas. Thanks for sharing.
By Shirley Johnson on November 1, 2014 at 12:19 pm
Molly: The quote by Marcel Proust resonates in me. Thank you for the five tips to train my eyes and to discover more. ~Suzy Leopold
By Prairie Garden Girl on November 1, 2014 at 1:11 pm
Thanks for the intro to Storybird!
By Melanie Lucero on November 1, 2014 at 4:40 pm
my eyes are wired open 🙂 thank you
By Cecilia on November 1, 2014 at 4:45 pm
I hope I can copy and paste and re-read these before coming up with ideas this month. Thanks.
By Sheri Rad on November 1, 2014 at 5:20 pm
Thank you for sending Storybird my way. I’m looking forward to checking it out (as soon as I bookmark this post!)
By Shari Della Penna on November 1, 2014 at 6:11 pm
So many great things to think about, thanks!
By Laurie L Young on November 1, 2014 at 7:06 pm
I never heard of Storybird – thank you for your post it was very inspiring and enlightening!
By angelapadron on November 1, 2014 at 7:20 pm
Can’t wait to check out Storybird-looks like a lot of fun!
By Joan Waites on November 2, 2014 at 10:34 am
Well said! I will check out Storybird! 😀
By thiskidreviewsbooks on November 2, 2014 at 2:30 pm
Molly, thank you for adding even more ways to expand creativity, and the resources! 🙂
By writersideup on November 2, 2014 at 7:10 pm
I can’t wait to try the idea of describing an interesting scene rather than photographing it. What an excellent challenge!
By sardyhar on November 3, 2014 at 1:49 am
I wear bifocals, but I’m a trifocal kind of girl. Most of the time, what I see is blurry. But I also try to see things with new eyes. It’s easy to forget. Glad for this post that’s not only a reminder but walks me around in it for a while. I’ve ordered the book and will check out Storybird soon. Thanks, Molly!
By carolmunrojww on November 3, 2014 at 9:25 am
Im in, thanks Tara. James kelly,
By james kelly on November 3, 2014 at 2:52 pm
I can’t wait to get started using your idea tools, and Storybird ,too. It llooks amazing! Thanks, Molly and Tara.
By Joanne Roberts on November 3, 2014 at 3:52 pm
The “negative space” thing is exactly what I needed to hear today. Thanks for the great post! Heading over to check out Storybird. 🙂
By rgstones on November 3, 2014 at 8:38 pm
Watch for details that make you ask “why.” I like this tidbit.
By Marge Gower on November 4, 2014 at 1:46 am
Very helpful post, Molly. Thank you. Love the artwork.
By wendymyersart on November 4, 2014 at 4:57 am
Point number 2 reminds me of the scene in the (book) movie The Book Thief where Max helps Liesel see with her eyes – so he can see too, since he is stuck hiding in the basement. A very good point, thank you 🙂
By Christie on November 4, 2014 at 10:38 am
Wonderful, Molly! Thank you!
By Erin O'Brien on November 4, 2014 at 12:39 pm
You are so right! As an artist I should be grabbing a pen to draw a scene rather than always taking a picture. Even words would be better sometimes rather than just a photo.
By Dani Duck on November 4, 2014 at 8:16 pm
Jeanette Koscheski I always thought that “less is more” was a
wise saying, especially for picture books.
By Jeanette Koscheski on November 8, 2014 at 2:24 pm
Such brilliant ideas, thanks for all the great tips!
By jeanjames on November 9, 2014 at 12:29 pm
Great ideas, Molly! I’ll be returning to this post a lot. Thank you.
By donnacangelosi on November 18, 2014 at 9:30 am
Sometimes we forget that each character has his or her own point of view. Each has a reason for what they do.
Thanks for the reminder to look from different eyes.
By Rick Starkey on November 19, 2014 at 10:27 am
Thank you for the Storybird link and other suggestions for visual aids.
By Sydney O'Neill on November 20, 2014 at 2:38 pm
I am practicing how to “train my eyes” in real life. My eyes are open.
By KASteed on November 28, 2014 at 2:27 pm
Thank you very much for all the suggestions to view things differently!
By Brook Gideon on November 30, 2014 at 9:08 am
Ooh, I love the tip about painting the picture with words instead of just taking a snapshot. I’ve been doing that a lot lately and it’s like a muscle that gets stronger the more I use it (or the reverse).
By Andrea J Loney on December 1, 2014 at 5:01 am
Reblogged this on Your Storybird Updater and commented:
#proud
Molly did a guest post!
By cherry_blossom on December 16, 2014 at 11:36 am
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By O’Neill, Molly | Writing for Children and Teens on August 10, 2015 at 4:41 pm