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Storystorm 2021 Day 25: Angela Burke Kunkel Explores the Power of Creative Limitations

January 25, 2021 10:11 am

by Angela Burke Kunkel

In “Steal Like an Artist: Ten Things Nobody Told You About Being Creative,” Austin Kleon writes:

“The best way to get over a creative block is simply to place
some constraints on yourself.
It seems contradictory, but when it comes to creative work,
limitations mean freedom.”

Or, for those author-illustrators or art buffs out there, consider this quote from artist David Hockney:

“Limitations are really good for you.
They are a stimulant.
If you were told to make a drawing of a tulip
using five lines,
or one using a hundred,
you’d be more inventive with the five.”

(While you’re at it, do a Google image search of Hockney’s own tulip drawings. You’ll see everything from paintings from the 70s and 80s to recent iPad sketches. Notice how they’re all different. And notice that this man is in his 80s and still imposing creative challenges on himself.)

My second published picture book, PENGUIN JOURNEY (Abrams Appleseed, October 2021), started as just this type of exercise. I tend to write really long first drafts, over a thousand words, in order to figure out what I need to say. And, in the midst of cutting (so much cutting), I wondered one day: what if I could write a complete picture book draft, arc and all, in under a hundred words? I happened to be thinking about penguins, and a little phrase popped into my head: “waddle waddle.” It was fun to say. But was it a story?

Well, at my desk one day, I wrote a draft repeating the phrase “waddle waddle” as a lone Emperor penguin arrives at their breeding ground, meets a mate, cares for their egg, and copes with the harsh conditions of Antarctic winter. All in . . . 69 words.

My agent and I decided to go on submission with the story, and Meredith Mundy at Abrams Appleseed wrote back with a request: Could I drop the repeated “waddle waddle,” keep the the original spare language and rewrite the concept . . . in rhyme? Revising and resubmitting to Meredith presented yet another set of creative challenges! I had a hard time letting go of “waddle waddle,” and I had never written in rhyme before. But, with Meredith’s careful editorial eye, the story’s new opening lines unfolded:

Packed snow.

Moon glow.

Windblown.

All alone.

They also made room for illustrator Catherine Odell’s beautiful mixed media art. But neither would exist without just sitting down one morning and playing with self-imposed limitations.

For today’s Storystorm, I challenge you to let those ideas flow, but with constraints. What are your tendencies, and how could you do the opposite? In other words, what creative limitations can you impose on yourself? In the idea-generating phase, this may mean stretching your brain in another direction. Do you usually start with character? How about generating an idea that starts with setting instead? Or are you a rhymer whose drafts begin with a couplet? Can you write those few lines sticking with prose (or vice versa)? Or open to a page in the dictionary, or the nearest book, and place a finger on a word at random— where can you go from there? What ideas come up for you?

Sometimes, just sometimes, the habit of letting ideas come without judgement is just a little too open. Or the ideas begin to repeat. If you find this is the case, build a cage of your own making—then see how to break out of it. You just might like what you come up with as you plot your escape.

Angela Burke Kunkel is the author of PENGUIN JOURNEY (Abrams Appleseed, October 2021) as well as DIGGING FOR WORDS: JOSÉ ALBERTO GUTIÉRREZ AND THE LIBRARY HE BUILT (Random House/Schwartz & Wade, 2020). After soaking up the sun in the Southwest for a number of years, she now lives in Vermont with her family, two dogs, a guinea pig and a rapidly-growing bearded dragon (really, it’s rather alarming). Angela works as a school librarian and is a former English Language Arts teacher. Visit her at angelakunkel.com, on Twitter @angkunkel and Instagram @angkunkel.

Angela is giving away a picture book critique to one Storystorm participant.

Leave one comment below to enter.

You’re eligible to win if you’re a registered Storystorm participant and you have commented once below.

Posted by Tara Lazar

Categories: Picture Books, Storystorm 2021

Tags: Angela Burke Kunkel, Digging for Words, Penguin Journey

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645 Responses to “Storystorm 2021 Day 25: Angela Burke Kunkel Explores the Power of Creative Limitations”

1. Oh, my, Angela! What a creative challenge you got from yourself and then your editor! And you did it! You set a great example for us. Much continued success to you!

   By Jane Heitman Healy on January 25, 2021 at 10:18 am

2. great advice!

   By ryanrobertsauthor on January 25, 2021 at 10:19 am

3. Angela, I am now plotting how to escape the constraints of my inner critic. The floodgate is opening!

   By Joyce Uglow on January 25, 2021 at 10:20 am

4. “Build a cage of your own making…then break out!” Terrifying yet brilliant. I’ll give it a try. Congrats on your penguin book, Angela. Sounds wonderful!

   By stiefelchana on January 25, 2021 at 10:20 am

5. Great story generating ideas! Thank you.

   By chersugarlee on January 25, 2021 at 10:21 am

6. Hi Angela,
   I really like how you rewrote, Penguin Journey.
   Will definitely look for the book. Congratulations!
   Great post, thank you.
   Mark

   By Mark Bentz on January 25, 2021 at 10:21 am

7. I agree wholeheartedly, Angela! I tell students all the time that if I was told to write a poem about the night sky it would probably take me weeks to nail down an idea – but if you tell me to write a poem about the star Betelgeuse in Orion’s left shoulder, well, that I can do! (I suppose this is why I have an affinity for classic, structured verse!)

   By Matt Forrest Esenwine on January 25, 2021 at 10:21 am

8. Thanks for these suggestions!

   By Kathi Morrison-Taylor on January 25, 2021 at 10:22 am

9. Angela, I love words and I know that I use a lot of them. I think I’ll take you up on your challenge! Can’t wait to read your penguin book!

   By Marla Yablon on January 25, 2021 at 10:23 am

10. What an excellent challenge, Angela! Thank you! I sincerely enjoyed DIGGING FOR WORDS and look forward to reading PENGUIN JOURNEY.

    By Robin Brett Wechsler on January 25, 2021 at 10:23 am

11. This is a great idea thank you so much Angela! I’m going to brainstorm on my drive home!

    By Sarah Hetu-Radny on January 25, 2021 at 10:24 am

12. What wonderful words. Thanks so much for sharing your insights!

    By Meli Glickman on January 25, 2021 at 10:25 am

13. Wow- constraints? So funny to consider doing the opposite!
    i will give it a try! Congrats on your newest book, too:>

    By pollyrenner on January 25, 2021 at 10:25 am

14. Thank you for these great ideas, Angela!

    By Kim Nolan on January 25, 2021 at 10:26 am

15. I’ve never tried rhyming which is very hard to accomplish well, but will try word play instead. Thank you for the suggestion 🙂

    By Joan Swanson on January 25, 2021 at 10:27 am

16. Great ideas, can’t wait to get started!

    By daniellesharkan on January 25, 2021 at 10:28 am

17. Great ideas, Angela. I’m up for the challenge. Thanks!

    By pathaap on January 25, 2021 at 10:29 am

18. Thank you for this idea to add to my bag of tricks!

    By Julie Maria Harris on January 25, 2021 at 10:29 am

19. Terrific suggestions, thank you! PENGUIN JOURNEY sounds wonderful, congrats!

    By Karin Larson on January 25, 2021 at 10:29 am

20. I loved this post Angela. I always feel at my most creative within a framework but wondered if it meant my ideas weren’t creative enough. What you’ve said here makes a lot of sense, so thanks!

    By Jane Mackenzie on January 25, 2021 at 10:30 am

21. Thank you!

    By Paige on January 25, 2021 at 10:30 am

22. What a fun story about the writing of your book. I’m terrified of rhyme.

    By Colleen Muske on January 25, 2021 at 10:31 am

23. Love your rhymes! Thanks for telling about your process. I agree! When I write on assignment with lots of limitations, I feel very creative.

    By Amy Houts on January 25, 2021 at 10:32 am

24. You have inspired me! Thank you!

    By Christina Shawn on January 25, 2021 at 10:32 am

25. This is a great challenge. Boundaries are so good for eliminating mental clutter. If you only have so much time and space you’re going to focus on what matters. Love this.

    By Cynthia Mochowski on January 25, 2021 at 10:32 am

26. Thanks, Angela! I was just thinking about something similar – my drafts almost always come in right @ the ol’ 500 words – could I challenge myself to do a whole MS draft in no more than 400…? Thanks for the insightful example re PENGUIN JOURNEY. The bit you shared is gorgeous.

    By ejessmurray on January 25, 2021 at 10:33 am

27. Great advice on flipping the script to break blocks! Thank you!!!

    By Catherine Lee on January 25, 2021 at 10:33 am

28. Great tips for breaking out of old patterns.

    By amydunjey on January 25, 2021 at 10:33 am

29. A challenging exercise–but I love a good challenge. Thank you for this inspiration, Angela!

    By Rebster on January 25, 2021 at 10:35 am

30. I absolutely work best under a deadline too. If something is due, I’ll get it to you. If I have tons of time…my brain wanders. I like the idea of setting yourself constraints to mimic something like this. Thanks!

    By Jasmine Smith on January 25, 2021 at 10:37 am

31. Thanks for sharing how you plotted your escape, Angela. It’s very inspiring!

    By Cathy L. Murphy on January 25, 2021 at 10:39 am

32. I love this strategy and really enjoyed reading the “back story” of your book.

    By Ann Harrell on January 25, 2021 at 10:39 am

33. I’m an underwriter, so I like this!

    By maureenegan on January 25, 2021 at 10:40 am

34. Excellent suggestion – challenge accepted! Thank you

    By DaNeil Olson on January 25, 2021 at 10:40 am

35. Meredith is fantastic to work with – can’t wait to read PENGUIN JOURNEY!

    By Cathy Ballou Mealey on January 25, 2021 at 10:40 am

36. Thanks for the great advice!

    By Krista Maxwell on January 25, 2021 at 10:41 am

37. Angela, that’s a hard one, because, like you, my first drafts usually run long and then I cut them down to size. It will be quite a challenge, but I’ll try it. I’ll also try starting with a form I usually don’t write in like rhyme. Great post!

    By betlw on January 25, 2021 at 10:44 am

38. Thank you for the advice!

    By Leah Moser on January 25, 2021 at 10:45 am

39. I love the idea of a limited word count. That always makes me so much more intentional with my word choice. Thank you for the tips, Angela!
    -Maryna Doughty

    By marynadoughty on January 25, 2021 at 10:45 am

40. Thank you for the challenge Angela! Penguin Journey sounds really cute – congratulations!

    By Catherine on January 25, 2021 at 10:48 am

41. I love the idea of challenging yourself to write stories in different forms and styles that you are accustomed to.

    By Stacey Corrigan on January 25, 2021 at 10:48 am

42. This is so true – great advice! It’s one reason I love entering competitions as you often have to write to a written or visual prompt, which really makes you start to think creatively.

    By claireflewis on January 25, 2021 at 10:51 am

43. I love this idea. So helpful in moving past the “alone with all that can happen” stage of first drafts.

    By Susan on January 25, 2021 at 10:51 am

44. This sounds like very good advice! Thank you!!

    By mariemessinger on January 25, 2021 at 10:52 am

45. Congrats on Penguin Journey! I LOVE your book, Digging for Words, and I look forward to reading your new one. Thank you for the very helpful advice. I’m going to put some constraints on myself and see what happens!

    By Jenny Morales on January 25, 2021 at 10:52 am

46. Love this challenge! A blank page is always the hardest, so I love your idea of setting up limitations. Thank you for sharing!

    By heatherbell37 on January 25, 2021 at 10:52 am

47. This exercise was exactly what I needed today! Thank you!

    By triciacandy on January 25, 2021 at 10:52 am

48. What a great exercise, Angela. I wouldn’t have thought to use constraints without your post. It made me think of how winemakers pile rocks on vine roots in order to produce a better wine.

    By Lori Dubbin on January 25, 2021 at 10:53 am

49. Thanks for the post.

    By Gregory E Bray on January 25, 2021 at 10:53 am

50. Totally agree that limitations push you to be more creative. Thanks for the reminder!

    By Melissa H. Mwai on January 25, 2021 at 10:54 am

51. Thanks for sharing your creative challenges and approaches for breaking out of the cage, Angela. Congratulations on Penguin Journey! I’m looking forward to reading it.

    By Lucretia S. on January 25, 2021 at 10:55 am

52. Congratulations on your new book, Angela! I can’t wait to try this strategy.

    By Linda KulpTrout on January 25, 2021 at 10:55 am

53. Great perspective! Thank you!

    By Jessica Hinrichs on January 25, 2021 at 10:55 am

54. This is such a helpful strategy- thanks for sharing!

    By Janet Krauthamer on January 25, 2021 at 10:55 am

55. This makes sense. If the answer to “What is Art?” is “Selection”, then adding constraints narrows the focus of what can be selected.

    By Susan Claus on January 25, 2021 at 10:55 am

56. Very helpful ideas! Thank you.

    By Lori Gibson on January 25, 2021 at 10:56 am

57. Congratulations on your new book, Angela! I can’t wait to try this strategy. Thank you!

    By Linda KulpTrout on January 25, 2021 at 10:56 am

58. A comment in less than 10 words? Yes. THANKS!

    By Martha Moore on January 25, 2021 at 10:56 am

59. This is a wonderful challenge. Thank you and congratulations on Penguin Journey.
    Gail Hartman

    By thecrowsmap on January 25, 2021 at 10:56 am

60. Great idea. This is now my to do when I sit to write later. Thank you!

    By Valarie Giogas on January 25, 2021 at 10:59 am

61. Thanks for much for sharing your ideas and for the challenge! I often find I work better within limitations – number of words, structure, etc. It’s fun to try!

    By Rose Cappelli on January 25, 2021 at 10:59 am

62. Great post!

    By Kim Erickson on January 25, 2021 at 11:01 am

63. Great idea. I will try the dictionary one and fewer words.

    By asiqueira1307 on January 25, 2021 at 11:01 am

64. This is a fun way to reimagine writing a story – great suggestion!

    By Meg on January 25, 2021 at 11:03 am

65. I’ll lean into the comfort of limitations today! Thank you. Great post.

    By Aimee Haburjak on January 25, 2021 at 11:04 am

66. Thanks for the suggestion.

    By Bethanny Parker on January 25, 2021 at 11:05 am

67. Thank you, Angela, for sharing your writing with limitations exercise. I look forward to experimenting with your suggestions today.

    By judyrubin13 on January 25, 2021 at 11:06 am

68. Will put my finger on a word in a book and go from there. Great idea.

    By lynjekowsky on January 25, 2021 at 11:06 am

69. Thank you for sharing your journey with us. Quite inventive to think about restraints-I’ll have to try that. And, after work I’m going home to open the dictionary and see where my finger lands!! Thanks again!

    By Lori Shapiro on January 25, 2021 at 11:07 am

70. Limitations can be freeing! I’m going to try this! Thanks for the great suggestions!

    By Judy Sobanski on January 25, 2021 at 11:08 am

71. It truly is freeing to try something opposite of your norm. I love the growth it brings to my craft.

    By Susan Cabael on January 25, 2021 at 11:11 am

72. Penguin Journey sounds adorable! I write in prose, but I love brief rhyme and have it on my To Try This Year list. I’d love a critique!

    By Melissa Trempe is querying (@melissa_trempe) on January 25, 2021 at 11:15 am

73. Thank you Angela and Tara, 50 Precious Words challenge helped me create a story- which I am now expanding. Thank you for all the suggestions about limits. I’m going to try them all!! Even rhyming!

    By Nancy Ferguson on January 25, 2021 at 11:17 am

74. Wonderful post! Something I never considered doing before. Gonna definitely give it a try!

    By Eileen Ross on January 25, 2021 at 11:18 am

75. This is great. I was recently tasked with painting from a limited palette and it focuses the mind. It also made me think about how much more I can simplify the piece.

    By Sarah Tobias on January 25, 2021 at 11:18 am

76. Thank you for these suggestions!

    By katiemillsgiorgio on January 25, 2021 at 11:20 am

77. Congratulations on Penguin’s Journey – it sounds lovely! Thanks for sharing today’s inspiring approach to idea generation – off to set limits and build some cages!:)

    By suumac on January 25, 2021 at 11:20 am

78. Fantastic ideas! I have Austin Kleon’s book too! I haven’t ever tried placing limitation on my story development before… but ironically
    I do that with my art and illustrations!! I will definitely have to try that out— so many cool ways to get tired brains up and running! Thank you for your advice!

    By Artsybarncat on January 25, 2021 at 11:22 am

79. Angela,
    Beautiful words for your new book❤️
    Thanks for the post.

    By Janie Reinart on January 25, 2021 at 11:22 am

80. Thank you for your advice! I need to go grab a dictionary!

    By Jennifer Rathe on January 25, 2021 at 11:22 am

81. I thank you for this, Angela. The way a person’s creativity can be nurtured are numerous. I am eager to try some self-imposed boundaries and see what comes of it.

    By Teresa Daffern on January 25, 2021 at 11:23 am

82. I like creative challenges so this post makes a lot of sense to me, Angela! I like the idea of picking out a random word out of the dictionary as a starting point. That’s how I’m going to generate my idea today. Here goes! Thanks!

    By kmajor2013 on January 25, 2021 at 11:24 am

83. Thanks angela 🙂

    By Datta Prabhu on January 25, 2021 at 11:25 am

84. Great ideas on how to challenge ourselves! Thank you!!

    By Hollie Wolverton on January 25, 2021 at 11:26 am

85. Angela, your idea of working within limitations is so inspiring! It is true that we are most creative when being asked to stay between the lines and ask ourselves, “How can I still express my individuality?”

    By Michelle Losardo on January 25, 2021 at 11:27 am

86. Angela, thank you for the great suggestions. I love the idea of randomly picking a word from the dictionary! Now…I just have to find mine:)

    By Krista Harrington on January 25, 2021 at 11:27 am

87. Amazing transformation of a ms–kudos and I’m looking forward to reading Penguin’s Journey!

    By Nancy Furstinger on January 25, 2021 at 11:28 am

88. THANK YOU Angela, for encouraging us to “build a cage… and then break out” — another reminder that we are often in cages that we ourselves created and we do in fact have the freedom to climb out of them. I’m definitely going to try the long draft/then cut the fluff option. I get caught up in self-editing while I write and that can snuff the life out of my creativity like a wind gust!

    By PATRICIA J FRANZ on January 25, 2021 at 11:28 am

89. Great tips, thank you Angela!

    By Carole Shelton on January 25, 2021 at 11:29 am

90. I would have had a hard time giving up the words “waddle waddle” too! I love penguins and that’s the first thing I imagine when hearing those words. I am sure that you’re book turned out terrific without them though. Congratulations on your book!!!!

    By Corlie Aldrich on January 25, 2021 at 11:29 am

91. This was very helpful, especially when I started brainstorming about my tendencies and process and what the opposite approach would be. thanks

    By Joanne Roberts on January 25, 2021 at 11:29 am

92. Thanks for this post. I needed to hear this today!

    Moni

    By bookthreader on January 25, 2021 at 11:29 am

93. Build a cage and ideas will come! I love this! Thanks for sharing how you so successfully used this approach, Angela! Your opening lines of Penguin Journey are gorgeous and so evocative. Congratulations!

    By Suzanne Lewis on January 25, 2021 at 11:30 am

94. I love this idea, and use it with poetry all the time especially when I get stuck.

    By Cathy Lentes on January 25, 2021 at 11:30 am

95. Brilliant post! And so true – sometimes too much freedom limits your creativity. Thanks for sharing how Penguin Journey came about.

    By Angela De Groot on January 25, 2021 at 11:31 am

96. Angela, thank you! I have a current manuscript I plan to rewrite with your advice. And I think I’ll dig out the dictionary today for my StoryStorm idea. Congratulations on Penguin Journey, my kids and I look forward to reading it!

    By Jennifer Lowe on January 25, 2021 at 11:32 am

97. Love this! Thanks for sharing!

    By Janice Woods on January 25, 2021 at 11:33 am

98. Great tips here, thank you!!

    By Tara Cerven on January 25, 2021 at 11:34 am

99. Such great suggestions! Thank you so much!

    By Heather Rowley on January 25, 2021 at 11:35 am

100. Such a great post. It’s so true about limitations being a spark for creativity. Thank you! (and I can’t wait to read your book about penguins!)

     By jilltatara on January 25, 2021 at 11:37 am

101. Oh, I love this idea of limitations and trying the opposite of what you usually do! And my goodness, the first lines of your new PB are just beautiful. Congratulations!

     By Maria Oka on January 25, 2021 at 11:37 am

102. This post really resonated with me — I love working within constraints, but they are usually externally imposed, and this reminded me that I could impose my own. Thanks!

     By Susan Wroble on January 25, 2021 at 11:39 am

103. Loved everything about this post! Thank you for sharing your wisdom.

     By jstremer on January 25, 2021 at 11:43 am

104. Thank you Angela 😊

     By saintamovin on January 25, 2021 at 11:44 am

105. Love your suggestions Angela. Sometimes the “wide open” is just too smothering when it comes to an actual idea.

     By Writer on the run on January 25, 2021 at 11:46 am

106. Great challenge for this
     long winded storyteller. Thank you!
     Peace, Alicia

     By Alicia Shawn Gagnon on January 25, 2021 at 11:48 am

107. Thank you, Angela, for the inspiration! Great post.

     By Candace Spizzirri on January 25, 2021 at 11:49 am

108. Great idea, thank you. I’m going to give this a go.

     By sareenmclay on January 25, 2021 at 11:50 am

109. Have already tried one of your suggestions and it definitely sparked some ideas so thank you for sharing!

     By Joan Longstaff on January 25, 2021 at 11:50 am

110. I like this idea and I’m going to try it out -thank you for the tip and congrats!

     By danielledufayet on January 25, 2021 at 11:51 am

111. Thank you so much for sharing how your idea started for PENGUIN JOURNEY and the process involved for publication. It’s really inspiring. I love your advice for generating ideas. I will be pointing to words in a book today and am looking forward to seeing what ideas come from it!

     By Cristina Raymer on January 25, 2021 at 11:52 am

112. Both your books sound amazing. Good luck with Vermont winters!

     By Shannon Hitchcock (@ShanonHitchcock) on January 25, 2021 at 11:52 am

113. Thank you. I love working with limitations but rarely impose them on myself. Great idea.

     By crdram12 on January 25, 2021 at 11:52 am

114. “Build a cage of your own making…” Great advice!! I love it and have a revision idea form this post!! So helpful, thanks!

     By Laurel Ranveig Abell on January 25, 2021 at 11:56 am

115. Great post, came at a great time as I am brainstorming on a new idea and it feels TOO BIG. Love the idea of starting with setting!

     By Tanya Konerman on January 25, 2021 at 11:57 am

116. Thanks for the reminder. I was always amazed at what I could write in a few minutes in an on-the-spot exercise.

     By Joyce on January 25, 2021 at 12:00 pm

117. I would have a hard time getting rid of “waddle waddle,” too! 🙂 It was so much fun reading about your process for writing PENGUIN JOURNEY! Thank you for sharing with us!

     By Genevieve Gorback on January 25, 2021 at 12:00 pm

118. Wow, Angela this has opened my eyes. I have heard that limitations spark creativity but didn’t really understand it until I read how you did. I don’t know if I can write in rhyme yet but maybe I should give it a try.

     By Denise Seidman on January 25, 2021 at 12:04 pm

119. Two words: Thanks, Angela.

     By Dayne Sislen, Children's Book Illustrator on January 25, 2021 at 12:04 pm

120. Oooh – I love this suggestion! Imposing limitations is a brilliant way to come up with something fresh. Thank you, Angela, and congrats on your book!!

     By clairebobrow on January 25, 2021 at 12:05 pm

121. Fantastic thought exercise!

     By Earl @ The Chronicles Of A Children's Book Writer on January 25, 2021 at 12:07 pm

122. Thank you for your motivating message. I’m going to give it a try today! P.S. I am a school librarian as well.

     By tootienienow on January 25, 2021 at 12:07 pm

123. I love your ideas, thanks.

     By Jennifer Skene on January 25, 2021 at 12:07 pm

124. Hi Angela. This is a wonderful reminder. Another constraint is time. I challenge myself to come up with an idea in 20 minutes. Or while I’m driving home from the grocery store. Thank you!

     By Karen on January 25, 2021 at 12:09 pm

125. This is a very interesting concept. I plan on trying it. Thanks.

     By Renner Writes (@barbararenner) on January 25, 2021 at 12:09 pm

126. David Hockney’s tulips are truly inspiring. Writing to a prompt is a constraint that has helped me in the past, I can’t wait to try the ones you suggest.

     By Roberta Gibson on January 25, 2021 at 12:10 pm

127. This is a great post. I seem to do better with story ideas when writing for contests with restrictions. I guess the restraints give me the challange I need.Thank you for your insight.

     By M.A. Cortez on January 25, 2021 at 12:11 pm

128. Great challenge Angela! Thank you

     By Catherine Brewer on January 25, 2021 at 12:12 pm

129. I love the idea of using constraints to free up creativity! Thank you for the post.

     By Lauren Barbieri on January 25, 2021 at 12:12 pm

130. This is why I like story prompts — the limitations actually help me to get started rather than just staring at a blank wall.

     By Cheryl on January 25, 2021 at 12:15 pm

131. Letting go is so hard! I love this idea, as someone who writes long and then cuts, I think I’ll try this this week. Aim for 100 words or less! Thanks for the inspiration!

     By Shelley Isaacson on January 25, 2021 at 12:16 pm

132. I love this post. Thanks for the inspiration.

     By Elizabeth Saba on January 25, 2021 at 12:19 pm

133. To lose the waddle waddle was to gain! I’m going to think about this a lot.

     By catherine owen on January 25, 2021 at 12:20 pm

134. Can’t wait for the penguins!

     By Jessica Potts on January 25, 2021 at 12:20 pm

135. Thank you for the post. It was really inspiring.

     By Cortney Benvenuto on January 25, 2021 at 12:20 pm

136. Brilliant idea! Too much room to ‘waddle waddle’ can get you lost! 🙂

     By Monica A. Harris on January 25, 2021 at 12:21 pm

137. This is so true. When I would write form poetry the constrains made me stretch my creativity. Thank you for sharing this wisdom.

     By Annie War on January 25, 2021 at 12:22 pm

138. Your journey was so interesting. Take your book and totally change it. And you did.

     By Susan Drew on January 25, 2021 at 12:24 pm

139. I love this post! Setting limitations is an inventive way of approaching creativity. I can’t wait to read Penguin Journey!

     By Kathleen B. on January 25, 2021 at 12:26 pm

140. I love this post! Setting limitations is an inventive way to approach creativity. I look forward to reading Penguin Journey!

     By Kathleen B. on January 25, 2021 at 12:27 pm

141. Thank you for sharing, it was very interesting to see the transformation of those 69 words going into rhyme!

     By claudia sloan on January 25, 2021 at 12:28 pm

142. Thanks, Angela. Fantastic story and fantastic ideas.

     By David McMullin on January 25, 2021 at 12:29 pm

143. Wow, that was amazing! Congratulations! I think I do need those limitations! Thank you for sharing!

     By Patricia J Holloway on January 25, 2021 at 12:30 pm

144. Thank you Angela for this creative idea.

     By nataliecohn0258 on January 25, 2021 at 12:32 pm

145. Thank you. Love this idea…off to give it a try.

     By Roxanne Troup on January 25, 2021 at 12:33 pm

146. What a fun exercise! I can’t wait to try this. Thanks for the great blog post!

     By Eileen Mayo on January 25, 2021 at 12:34 pm

147. I like the process leading to your penguin book

     By Hélène Sabourin on January 25, 2021 at 12:34 pm

148. Great idea Angela! And a couple new creative books and people to learn about too! ❤️

     By jenabenton on January 25, 2021 at 12:34 pm

149. Great ideas and tips. Thanks, Angela!

     By Sarah Meade on January 25, 2021 at 12:35 pm

150. Great idea Angela, this makes perfect sense! Thank you!

     By Jo Martin on January 25, 2021 at 12:35 pm

151. I like the idea of setting restraints. It is sort of what happens with a student who procrastinates, but works well under pressure. The time constraint causes him or her to be much more productive. Thank you!

     By Colleen Owen Murphy on January 25, 2021 at 12:35 pm

152. Thanks for sharing your unique perspective, Angela

     By Jan Milusich on January 25, 2021 at 12:36 pm

153. Great insights Angela – creative limitations make a lot of sense. Thanks for sharing!

     By Deb Sullivan on January 25, 2021 at 12:36 pm

154. Great post! Thank you for inspiring our creativity with these ideas.

     By Sharon Williams on January 25, 2021 at 12:39 pm

155. Love this idea of the constraints. Congrats on your Penguin Journey book!

     By Amanda Malek-Ahmadi on January 25, 2021 at 12:39 pm

156. Blue sky thinking has its place, but you’re oh, so right about having to go full Maguyver/Tim Gunn “Make it work, people!”

     By Melisa Wrex on January 25, 2021 at 12:40 pm

157. Exactly! I always do better when I have a deadline (a boundary). Love the idea of brainstorming in the same way. Thank you!

     By Angie on January 25, 2021 at 12:41 pm

158. I like this idea and am going to open a dictionary right now.

     By danielle hammelef on January 25, 2021 at 12:44 pm

159. I love writing picture books because of the limitation of words. Each has to be selected as a perfect jewel. Excellent job done here, Angela.

     By TerriMichels on January 25, 2021 at 12:44 pm

160. Angela, Excellent ideas. George Harrison once opened a book and pointed to a spot on it. He consequently wrote While My Guitar Gently Weeps. If it worked for him, it can work for any of us. I love penguins and am looking forward to reading your newest book. Thanks for the inspiration.

     By Marilyn Wolpin on January 25, 2021 at 12:45 pm

161. Challenge accepted Angela! I’m that wordy person! I will work to constrain my verbosity! Congrats on your forthcoming book!

     By chardixon47 on January 25, 2021 at 12:45 pm

162. I love the idea of creating limits like an “escape the room” for your writing! Can’t wait to try this out today. Congratulations on conquering your book and thanks for sharing!

     By kskeesling on January 25, 2021 at 12:47 pm

163. Thank you for the great tips, Angela! I came up with an idea using your dictionary suggestion! Thanks again and congrats on your upcoming book. 🙂

     By Teresa Rodrigues on January 25, 2021 at 12:48 pm

164. Thanks Angela, I’m opening my dictionary!

     By Jany Campana on January 25, 2021 at 12:49 pm

165. Awesome challenge! Thanks for the inspiration

     By kimpfenn on January 25, 2021 at 12:50 pm

166. Great ideas! I love waddle, waddle. Can’t wait for the bearded dragon story!

     By Sue on January 25, 2021 at 12:52 pm

167. Sometimes my metaphorical cage is to work on home projects while my mind percolates on an idea, then limit myself to only two or three hours to write down as many of the details I have about a new concept or developed story and see what I come up with. Thanks for the insight, Angela.

     By Hank Dallago on January 25, 2021 at 12:52 pm

168. Thank you for this inspiring post! It was interesting to get a peek into how your new book evolved! Best wishes with your new book!

     By Mia Geiger on January 25, 2021 at 12:53 pm

169. I love this post and that you included Hockney! Thanks Angela.

     By bonzerb on January 25, 2021 at 12:53 pm

170. Angela, I LOVE the opening of your new book! (Tara, please leave me out of the drawing. Let it go to a new writer).

     By Michelle Cusolito on January 25, 2021 at 12:56 pm

171. “Limitations are really good for us…” I’m contemplating how that has been true in my life, not only in my picture book writing journey. Thank you, Angela, for challenging me to create from a position of limitation.

     By Brenda Flowers on January 25, 2021 at 1:01 pm

172. Great advice, Angela! I can’t wait to see Penguin Journey. Thanks for sharing the journey behind it.

     By Jessica Swaim on January 25, 2021 at 1:04 pm

173. Great idea. Thank you for the inspiration!

     By vgraboski61gmailcom on January 25, 2021 at 1:05 pm

174. What an interesting idea… Thanks.

     By Elizabeth Duncan on January 25, 2021 at 1:05 pm

175. What an interesting idea… I’ll try it!

     By Elizabeth Duncan on January 25, 2021 at 1:07 pm

176. Great ideas. thanks!

     By CHRISTINE GRAHAM on January 25, 2021 at 1:08 pm

177. Thank you for permission to do something different while still working with constraints.

     By NC Karuzis on January 25, 2021 at 1:11 pm

178. Great quote – thank you.

     By Joni Nemeth on January 25, 2021 at 1:13 pm

179. Super post! I love the idea of putting limitations on myself. I actually JUST did this, and you’ve given me even more ideas for different directions to try now. Thank you! And, congratulations!

     By Tracy Hora on January 25, 2021 at 1:13 pm

180. Thank you Angela. Your post got me thinking – job well done!!

     By Kimberly Marcus on January 25, 2021 at 1:14 pm

181. 💛Angela, thanks for the great ideas. I need to step out of my comfort zone.💛

     By Dawn Young on January 25, 2021 at 1:14 pm

182. These are great ideas to challenge myself. Thank you!

     By Maria Altizer on January 25, 2021 at 1:15 pm

183. Creative limitations! Thank you, Angela, for the challenge. I will take you up on it.

     I am delighted to be introduced to David Hockney, author & illustrator.

     Suzy Leopold

     By Prairie Garden Girl on January 25, 2021 at 1:16 pm

184. Thanks for sharing

     By Kay on January 25, 2021 at 1:17 pm

185. Great idea, Angela! It seems so counterintuitive, but it really does help.

     By kirstenbockblog on January 25, 2021 at 1:18 pm

186. Creative limitations! Thank you, Angela! I am up to the challenge.

     I am delighted to be introduced to author, illustrator David Hockney.

     Suzy Leopold

     By Prairie Garden Girl on January 25, 2021 at 1:18 pm

187. Normally I write long, but in my latest manuscript I’ve written short. Too short, I feared — but your words give me hope. And I know sometimes my kids want to hear less not more.

     By Julia Lyon on January 25, 2021 at 1:18 pm

188. Honestly, could just be where my head is at this morning… recovering from these past few weeks as a citizen.. but this STORYSTORM really resonnated with me… also, it reminds me of things I tell my clients BUT HAVE NEVER HONESTLY APPLIED TO MYSELF
     thank you

     By marsha weiner on January 25, 2021 at 1:23 pm

189. I like the idea of limitations/constraints. They do feel freeing!

     By Penny Merritt on January 25, 2021 at 1:23 pm

190. Thanks for the interesting blog. It does seem counter-intuitive but adds another dimension to the creative process.

     By Elizabeth Duncan on January 25, 2021 at 1:28 pm

191. Wonderful inspiration. I like the idea of limiting myself. Feels like a stress reliever. As I get ready to write, I will think, “limitation approach”. Thank you.

     By Marlena Leach on January 25, 2021 at 1:29 pm

192. Fabulous! Never thought of adding constraints.
     It’s like putting yourself in a box. I will definitely give it a try.
     Thank you:)

     By Nancy Colle on January 25, 2021 at 1:30 pm

193. Thanks for your suggestion to build my own creativity cage!

     By Alice Fulgione on January 25, 2021 at 1:31 pm

194. This was a hard one for me. I can’t really think of any themes/motifs in my writing. They kind of bounce all over the place. But they all have characters. What about a story without any characters?…

     By andynarwhal on January 25, 2021 at 1:31 pm

195. I love Austin Kleon’s works too. Great idea!

     By Lauren Hidalgo on January 25, 2021 at 1:32 pm

196. Great tips! I must try your way of thinking. Thanks for the post, Angela!

     By Cathy Ogren on January 25, 2021 at 1:32 pm

197. I love this idea! Can’t wait to build a cage, then break it. Thanks for sharing.

     By michelemeleen on January 25, 2021 at 1:35 pm

198. I like the idea of building a cage and then breaking out of it.

     By Cheryl Johnson on January 25, 2021 at 1:37 pm

199. Really smart advice. Thanks Angela!

     By bgonsar on January 25, 2021 at 1:37 pm

200. I tried writing a rhyming poem in 50 words or less about one subject. It won’t be sent to Vivian Kirkfield but it was a challenge. I am thinking about cutting words but thinking about the illustration potential as well. And I learned my limitations include rhyme schemes and overwriting stories.

     By Sheri Radovich on January 25, 2021 at 1:45 pm

201. I look forward to trying this strategy. Thanks!

     By Peggy Dobbs on January 25, 2021 at 1:47 pm

202. Great ideas, Angela! Thank you. Time to build a cage. 🙂

     By Bonnie Kelso on January 25, 2021 at 1:49 pm

203. Thanks for a great post!!!

     By Kirsti Call on January 25, 2021 at 1:51 pm

204. Angela, I love your example of your penguin story. While it seems counterintuitive, I’ll give this a try! Of course, less is often more!

     By Mary York on January 25, 2021 at 1:51 pm

205. Love the word constraint. My first thought was something about puppets. But that is a giant subject. After going through all the different types, I settles on the simplest, finger puppets. Now I have a first draft that will be a fun story to illustrate.

     By Susan VandeWeghe on January 25, 2021 at 1:53 pm

206. As someone who is overwhelmed by the blank canvas, constraint is the thing for me.

     By Mary Jo Wagner on January 25, 2021 at 1:59 pm

207. oh I like the idea of thinking of setting first. I tend to go with either character or situation. At least I think I do. Thanks for the tip!

     By iefaber on January 25, 2021 at 2:00 pm

208. ” . . . build a cage of your own making—then see how to break out of it. ” Those words create some interesting pictures in my mind. Hmm . . .

     By LeeAnn Rizzuti on January 25, 2021 at 2:02 pm

209. I think this is true. Some of my best writing comes from contests where the word count is very limited. (I tend to be wordy.)

     By martyfindley on January 25, 2021 at 2:02 pm

210. I never would have thought of this on my own, the idea of setting constraints to see where it leads you! Thank you so much for sharing your process!

     By Katie Williams on January 25, 2021 at 2:02 pm

211. Brilliant! Deadlines and constraints will force me to get the words on the page. Thank you.

     By writeknit on January 25, 2021 at 2:03 pm

212. Great post! I agree that restricting ourselves may be freeing!

     By Corey on January 25, 2021 at 2:08 pm

213. Angela, You’ve provided us with a twist on the word “constraints.” All too often I create an endless list of ideas that stay filed away. I’m excited to try building a “cage” and simplify my list, making it more manageable to motivate me into flushing out stories. Sending you inspiration and energy for your continued success…

     By marshaelyn on January 25, 2021 at 2:10 pm

214. Hi, Angela! I love hearing about the transformation of your Penguin story and how it began with a phrase! I also love the idea of setting constraints to encourage creativity. I find that this method really works!

     By Laura Bower on January 25, 2021 at 2:12 pm

215. Thanks for the great advice!

     By Rathi on January 25, 2021 at 2:13 pm

216. I love what these constraints did for your story, Angela. And kudos to Meredith Mundy for taking the story from cute to lyrical. Sounds magnificent!

     By Joyce on January 25, 2021 at 2:15 pm

217. I tried picking a word at random out of the dictionary and landed on anti-establishmentarianism. This picture book MS is going to be a hoot.

     By Bennett Dixon on January 25, 2021 at 2:17 pm

218. I love this idea of imposing creative limitations! Thank you!

     By Stacey Byer on January 25, 2021 at 2:17 pm

219. Intriguing idea!

     By deirdreprischmann on January 25, 2021 at 2:17 pm

220. I love the use of limitations whether it’s with the words or the illustrations

     By Laura rackham on January 25, 2021 at 2:18 pm

221. Putting limitations on my writer weak points is a great way to work on being a better writer! Thanks for the inspiration. I’m off to build a world (can you guess my weak point?) 😉

     By JEN Garrett on January 25, 2021 at 2:21 pm

222. This line really stuck with me: build a cage of your own making—then see how to break out of it. Thanks for your ideas.

     By Julie Augensen-Rand on January 25, 2021 at 2:24 pm

223. I love the information from your penguin story. It helps further formulate a story in my mind–from an idea I got doing StoryStorm! Thanks.

     By Jill Friestad-Tate on January 25, 2021 at 2:24 pm

224. I love the idea using limitations and restraints and come up with something new. It is true and ideas start repeating after a while if we don’t change something up! Thank you!

     By Shawna J. C. Tenney on January 25, 2021 at 2:29 pm

225. Thank you Angela for your insight!

     By lavern15 on January 25, 2021 at 2:29 pm

226. Love constraints and deadlines as an ADD writer. Ty,

     By kathalsey on January 25, 2021 at 2:29 pm

227. These are great ideas for pondering. I love “build a cage of your own making”!

     By Christine Pinto on January 25, 2021 at 2:32 pm

228. What a fascinating idea?! I hadn’t considered self-imposed restrictions before. Great exercise. Thank you.

     By Brian Burak on January 25, 2021 at 2:32 pm

229. Imposing structure and restrictions can absolutely free us up. I tried the random dictionary word and got a story idea right away. And I’m rethinking a way to approach one of my manuscripts. Great activity, Angela!

     By Melanie Ellsworth on January 25, 2021 at 2:32 pm

230. Love the dictionary idea! Congrats on your newest book!

     By Mary Ann Blair on January 25, 2021 at 2:34 pm

231. Oh, I love this, Angela. Bring on the constraints. note: it doesn’t work with m&ms I’ve found…

     By Sue Heavenrich on January 25, 2021 at 2:34 pm

232. I love waddle waddle! I bet that was hard to let go of, but I also bet your book will be beautiful and perfect! And you can still say waddle waddle! Thanks for this limitation tip!

     By dedra davis on January 25, 2021 at 2:42 pm

233. Great post! Thanks, Angela! I’m off to take notes on a new idea… 🙂

     By Sheri Dillard on January 25, 2021 at 2:46 pm

234. I too, love penguins.

     By Sharon Lillie on January 25, 2021 at 2:48 pm

235. I love the idea of constraints!

     By Janet Johnson on January 25, 2021 at 2:50 pm

236. Thank you for this idea of imposing limitations on myself! I’m trying this tonight!!

     By Jeannie Santucci on January 25, 2021 at 2:50 pm

237. I agree 100,000 % constraints are definitely necessary at times! I find I can do any illustration I want to do, sometimes, I can not even think of what to do. Thank You!

     By gattodesign on January 25, 2021 at 2:51 pm

238. Thank you for this inspiring and thoughtful post. I’m looking forward to reading PENGUIN JOURNEY.

     By Claire A. B. Freeland on January 25, 2021 at 2:53 pm

239. This has been my favorite Storystorm post this year! Thanks for the great challenge!

     By Ink Bottle Studio on January 25, 2021 at 2:59 pm

240. It is so much easier to begin when there are some boundaries. Thank you for your post and inspiration, and congrats on Penguin Journey!

     By Sara Weingartner (@SJWeingartner) on January 25, 2021 at 3:06 pm

241. Angela, what a fun way to generate ideas! I think this will work for me. Thanks so much for sharing with us and for a chance to win a copy of your book.

     By Pamela Haskin on January 25, 2021 at 3:12 pm

242. This is really freeing!

     By Jud Ward on January 25, 2021 at 3:14 pm

243. Love your post and example. Bet there’s another story for Waddle Waddle. It is fun to say. Thanks for sharing. Lots to learn here.

     By Carole Calladine on January 25, 2021 at 3:14 pm

244. This is so true. I response VERY well to limitations. Thanks Angela!

     By Phaea Crede - Jet the Cat (Is Not a Cat) author (@PhaeaCrede) on January 25, 2021 at 3:16 pm

245. Thanks, interesting ideas! Might try constraints on words and time and see what happens. I look forward to seeing Penguin Journey!

     By Lisa Billa on January 25, 2021 at 3:17 pm

246. I love this idea of constraints! I too, usually start out writing waaay too much and then cut, cut, cut. I’m really looking forward to trying this out! Thanks for this great post.

     By Penelope McNally on January 25, 2021 at 3:21 pm

247. Thanks for this post, Angela! There is so much truth to this approach! When I was “stuck” creatively in 2020, participating in contests with themes and word limits really helped me. I will definitely continue using this strategy in 2021. Thank you for the suggestion! 🙂

     By Abby Wooldridge on January 25, 2021 at 3:21 pm

248. I love the idea that you built a story around the words “waddle, waddle.” T

     By Tanja Bauerle on January 25, 2021 at 3:26 pm

249. From a fellow wordy author to another, thank you for these ideas. I ALWAYS need suggestions of how to break out of my routines! 🙂 Thank you for these ideas!

     By Michele Rietz on January 25, 2021 at 3:26 pm

250. Thank you for sharing these ideas, bumpers are often just what I need to keep the ball rolling and out of the gutter. Challenge accepted!
     Thank you also for sharing your revision story, it’s always encouraging to know we all need to cut our darlings sometimes for a stronger result.

     By jenfierjasinski on January 25, 2021 at 3:30 pm

251. Thank you, Angela, for the terrific post! Hard to do-but a good push for me to finish up the last few days of Storystorm. Congratulations on your newest book.

     By Gail Aherne on January 25, 2021 at 3:33 pm

252. I love constraints in the creative process. They open so many doors… thanks for the reminder!!

     By Lisa Oppenheim on January 25, 2021 at 3:34 pm

253. Excellent challenges, Angela. Thank you. Congratulations on your success. My daughter and I loved Digging for Words. Thanks again Tara. Rosanna

     By romontanaro on January 25, 2021 at 3:34 pm

254. Thanks for the idea on adding constraints. I loved the metaphor of building our own cage, to then break free!

     By Carrie Tillotson on January 25, 2021 at 3:45 pm

255. Limitations are also useful timewise as well (to an extent). If I think I have all the time in the world, I don’t concentrate so well or make the decisions I need to make about cutting etc

     By junegraham on January 25, 2021 at 3:48 pm

256. I’m excited to try out some limitations. Great advice, Angela! And I loved reading about your journey with PENGUIN JOURNEY. Can’t wait to read it!

     By Gabi Snyder on January 25, 2021 at 3:50 pm

257. How amazing that “waddle, waddle” evolved into a wonderful story! I like the idea of constraints to jumpstart creativity.

     By Anne C. Bromley on January 25, 2021 at 3:52 pm

258. What a great idea! Can’t wait to try it.

     By Pat Trattles on January 25, 2021 at 3:57 pm

259. I loved your idea of picking a random book and selecting a word. I tried it for myself and what a journey it took me on! Thank you!

     By Maria on January 25, 2021 at 3:57 pm

260. I love this advice. And I love the challenge of constraints. Thanks Angela!

     By Dan Marvin on January 25, 2021 at 4:00 pm

261. I love the idea of self imposed restraint. It works in my art, too. I often tell myself I’m going to do a painting entirely in green, or blue. It never finishes up that way, but it gets me started!

     By Emily Chibwana on January 25, 2021 at 4:01 pm

262. Such true advice! I find both for myself and for my students, whenever there is a constraint, a final piece becomes easier and often more intriguing! It becomes a manageable challenge! Thanks for sharing, and congrats on your books (and sorry you had to let go of “waddle waddle”–it is fun to say, though it sounds like you’re happy with the result)!

     By Pamela Brunskill on January 25, 2021 at 4:01 pm

263. Thanks for sharing the interesting story of how Penguin Journey evolved. I love Austin Kleon’s books on how to make art, and appreciate the reminder about CONSTRAINTS and limitations! I need them! Your four spare lines you shared are inspiring me to take a stab at that style. Thank you!

     By allyenz on January 25, 2021 at 4:05 pm

264. Thank you for your blog today. Absolutely fantastic! Definitely a spin in the works! Love it, thank you for opening up my mind to a new way of thinking. Best wishes 🤗🌼

     By lisakhan9 on January 25, 2021 at 4:05 pm

265. I need a break from my norm. Thanks for these ideas. When the constraints push back, perhaps they will become a part of my next story.
     Im adding Penguin Journey to my October/November TBR list.

     By Beatrice Brown on January 25, 2021 at 4:06 pm

266. I will absolutely try this! Challenge on! Thank you!

     By Susan Schade on January 25, 2021 at 4:07 pm

267. Oh how I love your words in DIGGING FOR WORDS, Angela! But it’s this line that I can’t believe right now—”build a cage of your own making—then see how to break out of it. You just might like what you come up with as you plot your escape.” It is so true that constraints are a key way to break free. I go to this wonderful Friday Art Club in Instagram that has us draw for two minutes, five minutes, 15 minutes. It always ends with a ten second animal! Ten seconds! And believe it or not, it’s the lion I made in ten seconds that I’m really happy with. I LOVE your post today! Thank you so much. I’m looking forward to seeing your penguin book. It sounds utterly delightful.
     Tara, you are a dynamic, giving, and talented woman. Thanks for being you.

     By marty on January 25, 2021 at 4:07 pm

268. Great advice/ideas. Thank you!

     By Debbi G on January 25, 2021 at 4:08 pm

269. I love constraints—usually in the form of a deadline. This is a bee approach for, but can’t wait to try it. Waddle, waddle!

     By Fern Glazer on January 25, 2021 at 4:10 pm

270. Thank you, Angela! What a creative way to think about generating ideas! I love hearing about your personal experiences.

     By Amy Cory on January 25, 2021 at 4:13 pm

271. Thanks for sharing that you had to rewrite your penguin story and how that challenged you. I have such a hard time letting ideas come without judgment. I feel inspired to let some of that judgment go now 🙂

     By Lisa on January 25, 2021 at 4:14 pm

272. Thank you for the inspiration of going slow and less is more for your creativity.

     By readmybook2002 on January 25, 2021 at 4:17 pm

273. This has been the best advice so far in Story Storm. The contraints release you from writer’s block.

     By Andrew Syers on January 25, 2021 at 4:18 pm

274. Definitely going to try this “limitations” idea! Thanks for sharing.

     By Janet Halfmann on January 25, 2021 at 4:19 pm

275. Makes so much sense. Create some limitations. Actually as PB writers we are trying keep the words down. But it would be interesting to set a word goal to see what happens.

     By Elyse Trevers on January 25, 2021 at 4:20 pm

276. Can’t wait to read Penguin Journey! Thank you for this idea, Angela!

     By erintsiska on January 25, 2021 at 4:22 pm

277. What excellent suggestions! Thanks for the inspiration.

     By Suzanne Alexander on January 25, 2021 at 4:22 pm

278. Love the sound of your penguin story. Can’t wait to read it.
     Kerry

     By Kerry on January 25, 2021 at 4:26 pm

279. What a way to expand creativity, by setting limits! Great idea. Thank you.

     By Cassie Bentley on January 25, 2021 at 4:31 pm

280. I love this idea. I can’t wait to try it. Thank you!

     By Linda Bozzo on January 25, 2021 at 4:33 pm

281. What an interesting idea! Thank you

     By Kris H on January 25, 2021 at 4:35 pm

282. Great advice! It’s so interesting to think about our tendencies as writers and how to go beyond or around them.

     By Sara Ackerman on January 25, 2021 at 4:36 pm

283. I think Mom would do well to limit herself to 100 words. That would be a fun challenge. Most days, she says, “I told you a hundred times to stop that naughty behavior.” So, yeah. She’s not much with the numbers, but she gets what 100 means… Thanks, Angela!

     Love and licks,
     Cupcake

     By Genevieve Petrillo on January 25, 2021 at 4:37 pm

284. I think I’m a kindred spirit — I write long, and would definitely build a story around “waddle waddle.” I hope you get to use that phrase in a different manuscript. It sounds like Penguin Journey turned out beautifully, though. I’ll check it out.

     By janetfrencksheets on January 25, 2021 at 4:38 pm

285. Thanks for sharing penguin’s waddling journey to PENGUIN JOURNEY. You had multiple cages to break out of to escape to the final product. Congratulations! And thank you for all the concrete suggestions for building our own cages.

     By Joannie Duris on January 25, 2021 at 4:39 pm

286. Thank you, this is great advice.

     By Keren Dibbens-Wyatt on January 25, 2021 at 4:45 pm

287. What an excellent idea! Maybe I’ll make a list of constraints and keep them in a jar on my desk… hmmm, maybe a constraint a day will keep writer’s block at bay? 😉 Thank you Angela

     By tinefg on January 25, 2021 at 4:46 pm

288. Great post, Angela! Thank you!

     By Emily Durant on January 25, 2021 at 4:49 pm

289. Thank you for this post – exactly what I needed to jumpstart me this monday!

     By georgeandjohanna on January 25, 2021 at 4:59 pm

290. So true! This is why I enter writing contests. Sometimes the guideline limitations for various writing contests serve to focus my creativity. This is also why I prefer rhyming poetry!

     By Patricia on January 25, 2021 at 5:00 pm

291. Love deadlines and constraints, thanks

     By Kathy Mazurowski on January 25, 2021 at 5:04 pm

292. Thanks for your post. Good luck with your book.

     By Chelle Martin on January 25, 2021 at 5:05 pm

293. Great idea! I always love a new challenge.

     By Brandy Dixon on January 25, 2021 at 5:05 pm

294. Yes! I love this idea, as it helps me focus. Otherwise, I am finding I don’t get things done. I will try your suggestions over and over again. Thank you!

     By boardmancamera on January 25, 2021 at 5:08 pm

295. Thanks Angela! I have found that limitations really do inspire creativity. Great way to start the week!

     By Mary Warth on January 25, 2021 at 5:09 pm

296. Wonderful idea. I always write too much.

     By Sherri on January 25, 2021 at 5:09 pm

297. Mmm limitations, I like it. I usually write best to the wire, so I’m
     going to try some new constraints.

     By FrannyG on January 25, 2021 at 5:12 pm

298. This is great advice! Thanks so much and undying gratitude to Tara Lazar for all of these amazing guest posts.

     By authorlaurablog on January 25, 2021 at 5:18 pm

299. So much synchronicity in this post! Was just discussing constraints and creativity length in a writing group yesterday. I went to see Hockney’s exhibition when it came to Melbourne awhile back and really enjoyed it. And I LOVED Digging for Words, Angela – such a beautiful story. Thanks for these tips. Am inspired to get started on this rainy day in Melbs 🙂

     By Cassy Polimeni on January 25, 2021 at 5:20 pm

300. I love this! Another author guilty of being overly wordy… this resonates so much!

     By 🇵🇪Sara Fajardo🇺🇸 (@safajarwrites) on January 25, 2021 at 5:25 pm

301. I love this idea of constraints and your penguin book sounds amazing! Also writing 1,000 words then cutting is also excellent. Thankyou.

     By Kaye Baillie on January 25, 2021 at 5:26 pm

302. I enjoyed looking at Hockney’s tulips and appreciated the reminder about Austin Kleon. I have to go back and read his book. Setting parameters creates a mental sandbox that encourages play. Thank you for your inspiring post, Angela!

     By Jill Lambert (@LJillLambert) on January 25, 2021 at 5:28 pm

303. nice idea! Today I’m going to give myself the constraint of generating an idea from just one word

     By Heather Stigall on January 25, 2021 at 5:29 pm

304. Interesting how a story idea that started with Waddle Waddle wound up being acquired sans the Waddle. Congratulations on Penguin Journey!!

     By jessica shaw on January 25, 2021 at 5:30 pm

305. Nice job with the opening lines of PENGUIN JOURNEY. I love to write concise, meaningful lines.

     By Manju Beth Howard (@ManjuBeth) on January 25, 2021 at 5:31 pm

306. I agree wholeheartedly, the mind needs to focus on something narrower. Thanks so much for the tips and challenge, love it!

     By Rozana Rajkumari on January 25, 2021 at 5:33 pm

307. I can see this really getting those creative juices flowing. reminds me of frank Zappa… thank you!

     By tasha woodson on January 25, 2021 at 5:37 pm

308. Thanks for sharing your journey on your book. Congrats! I’ll think about it!

     By tinamcho on January 25, 2021 at 5:42 pm

309. Great idea! I find that often my most unique stories come with constraints.

     By Linda Schueler on January 25, 2021 at 5:45 pm

310. Thank you, Angela, for sharing your writing process. I loved how you tried something new when writing Penguin Journey, and then had to redo it in rhyme. That was quite a challenge. I promise to challenge myself this year and to keep trying something new.

     By authordebradaugherty on January 25, 2021 at 5:48 pm

311. Love the idea of constraints!

     By Jennifer Angel on January 25, 2021 at 5:48 pm

312. So glad to see requests for rhyme.

     By Christine Van Zandt, author of A BRIEF HISTORY OF UNDERPANTS on January 25, 2021 at 5:49 pm

313. Thank you for the challenge. Good lucks with your new book.

     By Aly Kenna on January 25, 2021 at 5:55 pm

314. Thank you, Angela, for sharing your process!

     By sonjaglad on January 25, 2021 at 5:59 pm

315. Hooray for constraints–thanks for the suggestion!

     By Buffy Silverman on January 25, 2021 at 6:04 pm

316. I love this idea! Well, I hate it, because I know it will challenge me, but I can really see how it would be beneficial. Thank you!

     By Elizabeth Masterman on January 25, 2021 at 6:07 pm

317. I tend to be a pantser, so I could try outlining for a change. I also write in generalities first, creating long drafts which I hone as I whittle away the extraneous to get to the crux of the story. Outline from a specific idea; it will be interesting to see the first draft after doing so.

     By Susan Jobsky on January 25, 2021 at 6:08 pm

318. Thank you Angela- such an interesting take on being creative. I will have to try that!

     By Cathy McDonnell on January 25, 2021 at 6:15 pm

319. Thanks for sharing your journey, especially the waddle one. I’ve gotten hooked on words that help me tell a story, but had to let them go to move the story on. Thanks for sharing your journey.

     By rindabeach on January 25, 2021 at 6:17 pm

320. The opening lines of PENGUIN JOURNEY are absolutely lovely. What a great idea to use constraints! When I have a wide-open choice, it leads to indecision as I try to find the perfect option. I’ll try this!

     By cindyjohnson2013 on January 25, 2021 at 6:22 pm

321. I completely agree with your assessment of writing constraints! Too many choices can be overwhelming sometimes. Plus, writing constraints can also push you to be even more thoughtful in the writing process, helping every word to be important and meaningful.

     By Michelle S. Kennedy (@MichelleSKenned) on January 25, 2021 at 6:22 pm

322. This is so true! Thanks for the reminder to impose limitations for creativity.

     By Poupette on January 25, 2021 at 6:23 pm

323. I love this idea, thank you! It makes me think of the way some writers (myself included) find it easier to revise than to draft. Sometimes you just need a starting place.

     By htaylorwrites on January 25, 2021 at 6:23 pm

324. I have been very much wed to the idea of starting with a first line and ending with a last line. So my constraint is to start with the last line.
     And so she did.

     By Garnett Natasha on January 25, 2021 at 6:26 pm

325. Ponder this – A picture is worth a thousand words so how can we keep the word count below five hundred?

     By Stephen S. Martin on January 25, 2021 at 6:31 pm

326. Oh I loved that! You made me step out of my comfort zone. I’m a rhymer so it felt a bit strange at first but then felt really good. Thank you for that! ❤️

     By Jayne Wilson on January 25, 2021 at 6:34 pm

327. Great quotes. As a person who builds around a character, I will challenge myself to beginning with a setting.

     By nrompella on January 25, 2021 at 6:34 pm

328. Great idea! I’m going to try the 100-word limit on my next project.

     By Robin Wiesneth on January 25, 2021 at 6:35 pm

329. Thanks Angela for this inspiring post. Constraints to help us challenge our idea. Love it.

     By bevbaird on January 25, 2021 at 6:36 pm

330. I love this idea. I think pushing yourself and asking those questions to put you on your head is great. I think I’m also going to try it with my character and ask them what they’d do and then do the opposite. See if my shy Garbage truck wants to be brave and what needs to happen for him to feel brave enough to do XYZ… Thanks for the inspiration.

     By Aundra- Writing & Teaching & Parenting (@JasperSammyand) on January 25, 2021 at 6:39 pm

331. Lifelong outside the box thinker here. Most of the time I don’t even know there’s a box I was supposed to be in. But I’m with you. Sometimes drawing a box makes my creative juices flow.

     By Carlie Cornell on January 25, 2021 at 6:40 pm

332. Thanks for the ideas! 🙂

     By susaninez0905 on January 25, 2021 at 6:45 pm

333. “plot your escape”–ha, ha, I love it. But great idea. I think I’ll trap myself into a story with no dialogue…

     By lisanevada on January 25, 2021 at 6:51 pm

334. Great post. I like how you challenged yourself, succeeded with a 69-word story and then found yourself challenged again by the needs of the editor. But you did it! And in rhyme!! So inspirational.

     thanks for sharing your journey, Angela, and congratulations on Penguins Journey.

     By Linda Hofke on January 25, 2021 at 6:59 pm

335. I’m sure you’ll find a home for “waddle waddle.” It IS fun to say.

     By amomnextdoor on January 25, 2021 at 7:07 pm

336. Glad to hear you mention writing long first drafts followed by intensive cutting. Thanks

     By John McGranaghan on January 25, 2021 at 7:12 pm

337. Thanks for this excellent food for thought. Limitations! If I’m good with deadlines maybe I can be good with limitations, too, just never considered them! I love the lyricism of your opening line in your new pb, so evocative.

     By goodreadswithronna on January 25, 2021 at 7:12 pm

338. Great advice! (As an aside, I don’t know what I’d do if an editor asked for rhyme, I’d probably try to negotiate meter as a compromise 🙂

     By mariamd542 on January 25, 2021 at 7:16 pm

339. I’ve never tried writing a book in under 100 words, though I do have one that’s just under 200. And I like choosing a random word from the dictionary! Now where did I put that thing?

     By Megan M. on January 25, 2021 at 7:20 pm

340. Great ideas, thank you!

     By andreesantini on January 25, 2021 at 7:25 pm

341. Appreciate the sharing and idea starters.

     By chaunceyelephant on January 25, 2021 at 7:28 pm

342. Congratulations and thank you, Angela. Yes, got to have limits in place, unlimited (infinity) can cause inaction.

     By YauMei Chiang on January 25, 2021 at 7:28 pm

343. Angela, these lines really resonated with me: “If you find this is the case, build a cage of your own making—then see how to break out of it. You just might like what you come up with as you plot your escape.”

     Now to figure out a cage for myself!

     By Jessica Fries-Gaither on January 25, 2021 at 7:30 pm

344. Thanks for the idea❤️❤️

     By EmmieRWerner on January 25, 2021 at 7:31 pm

345. That was fun!

     By Laurel Santini on January 25, 2021 at 7:31 pm

346. Thanks for sharing! Love this idea. Also – it must have been so hard to get rid of “waddle waddle” – it is so fun to say out loud!

     By Katie Brandyberry on January 25, 2021 at 7:35 pm

347. This idea sounds good. I’ll give it a try. I like “Waddle Waddle,” too.

     By Janet Smart on January 25, 2021 at 7:43 pm

348. Great example! I’ve found I flourish with constraints as well!

     By Sarah Lynne John on January 25, 2021 at 7:54 pm

349. What an interesting post! I’m intrigued with the idea of imposing some limits. I find I’m forced to be more creative when writing a poem in a particularly demanding form. Why not try this with a picture book? On another note, I’ve been struck by the number of times throughout this month that the phrase that sparked the idea or started the writing process often isn’t in the finished product.

     By mbhmaine on January 25, 2021 at 7:54 pm

350. Your suggestion maybe just the constraint I need to force myself into a better writing space! Thank you!

     By carmelamccainsimmons on January 25, 2021 at 7:56 pm

351. A positive way to look at limitations!! Thanks for sharing! Congrats on your books!

     By Marci Whitehurst on January 25, 2021 at 7:56 pm

352. Thank you for the guidelines to try. “Waddle waddle” might still be in a future book for you!

     By mommamoocow on January 25, 2021 at 7:57 pm

353. I absolutely love this idea!

     By Dawn Prochovnic on January 25, 2021 at 8:01 pm

354. Thank. you Angela! I love the book, Steal LIke An Artist! So your ideas really appealed to me! I’ll try it! And looking forward to reading your books.

     By Betsy on January 25, 2021 at 8:03 pm

355. These ideas made me THINK about my idea-generating process…what’s working and what’s not. Thank you!

     By Lori Sheroan on January 25, 2021 at 8:07 pm

356. Brave rave. You gave. No blanks. Our thanks.

     By Mary Lou Johnson on January 25, 2021 at 8:12 pm

357. Thank you for sharing!

     By Tricia Thatcher on January 25, 2021 at 8:12 pm

358. wow. 69 words. I’m impressed and intrigued and going to try something new. thanks.

     By Mitchell Linda on January 25, 2021 at 8:20 pm

359. Great post. I may try the super short story limitation, thank you!

     By Susan Latta on January 25, 2021 at 8:21 pm

360. Narrowing down the possibilities can help in opening up your mind, it can feel counter intuitive but sometimes I feel the most free with an assignment of some kind!

     By Carrie Williford (@carrietimes) on January 25, 2021 at 8:21 pm

361. Wow. 69 words. I will be looking for Penguin Journey. Thanks for a fun post with some good ideas.

     By rosihollinbeck on January 25, 2021 at 8:29 pm

362. Thank you, Angela! Less is definitely more in terms of the quality and impact of our words.

     By Armineh Manookian on January 25, 2021 at 8:39 pm

363. Thank you, Angela! 69 words! Inspired to try that–

     By Midge Ballou Smith on January 25, 2021 at 8:49 pm

364. Thanks for the illustration of the tulips! I do appreciate limitations that I can break if needed. And once again, I just have to say how much I love Digging for Words and what a great inspirational book it was for my classes to kick off the new year!

     By Brinton Culp on January 25, 2021 at 8:54 pm

365. Love this advice and hearing how it worked for you. Thanks!

     By Christine Fleming McIsaac on January 25, 2021 at 8:58 pm

366. I love this art of the creative spirit! You gave a simply perfect practice to challenge the free side and hone in on something new using techniques we get choose. Can’t wait to see your penguin story.

     By A Brewer on January 25, 2021 at 9:01 pm

367. Congratulations on your success, Angela! This is great advice! Thank you!

     By claudine108 on January 25, 2021 at 9:25 pm

368. Waddle waddle! Thanks for the reminder to challenge ourselves sometimes. Constraints DO make for interesting brainstorming material.

     By Stephanie Lau on January 25, 2021 at 9:26 pm

369. I love a challenge and I will try to write with some constraints as you have suggested. And thank you for sharing your experience writing Penguin Journey. I will add this book to my must read list.

     By Jeannette Suhr on January 25, 2021 at 9:30 pm

370. I like that, limiting oneself. Thanks for sharing, Angela!

     By paulajbecker on January 25, 2021 at 9:30 pm

371. Anything self imposed anything (diet/exercise/social media ban) can turn out to be difficult but oh, so worth it. Thank you!

     By Dina Ticas on January 25, 2021 at 9:42 pm

372. Thanks for your post! This one really resonates with me.

     By karynellis on January 25, 2021 at 9:43 pm

373. So how many words did the final end up being? Thanks for sharing, Angela!

     By Terri Sabol on January 25, 2021 at 9:50 pm

374. Thanks for an inspiring post Angela! This is great advice!

     By jbbower on January 25, 2021 at 9:51 pm

375. Thanks for the tips on creating ideas.
     Congratulations on your penguin book!

     By Heather Kelso on January 25, 2021 at 9:56 pm

376. Great opening lines, Angela! Thanks for sharing.

     By Sara Trofa on January 25, 2021 at 9:57 pm

377. Thank you for your insight. This will be a challenging exercise. Looking forward to it. Your new book sounds wonderful!

     By Jennifer on January 25, 2021 at 9:57 pm

378. Changes in routine can create new ones….maybe I will try it.

     By matthewlasley on January 25, 2021 at 9:58 pm

379. I like the challenge of “a cage of your own making.” Thanks for offering the idea!

     By Jennifer Blanck on January 25, 2021 at 9:58 pm

380. Thank you for this post. We always hear that we have to let our imagination go, no constraints… but you are giving us a new take on how to generate new and exciting ideas and I can’t wait to sit down and build up a little “cage” for them 🙂

     By roberta abussi on January 25, 2021 at 9:59 pm

381. Thank you Angela! I love the assonance in the opening lines of your new book. Beautiful and inspiring!

     By Amy Grover on January 25, 2021 at 10:10 pm

382. Fantastic post, Angela. Who immediately came to mind was Dr. Seuss and his 50-word limit to create THE CAT IN THE HAT and look what came of that constraint! ❤

     By writersideup on January 25, 2021 at 10:11 pm

383. It’s always interesting to see peoples methods. Thanks for sharing!

     By authoraileenstewart on January 25, 2021 at 10:26 pm

384. This is a great idea, thanks so much!

     By Kathryn Cunningham on January 25, 2021 at 10:27 pm

385. I would have never thought of constraints like that, so interesting!

     By Lydia Lukidis on January 25, 2021 at 10:37 pm

386. Definitely a valuable creativity technique. I love your examples and how you rose to the new challenge when it was presented. Congratulations on your new book! And thanks for sharing.

     By Jennifer Phillips on January 25, 2021 at 10:45 pm

387. Build a cage of my own making? I like it! What a great exercise. Thank you Angela!

     By Brittney on January 25, 2021 at 10:46 pm

388. This exercise in limitations is going to be an invigorating challenge – one that has been sorely needed for me. Off to think outside of my cage! Thanks for the inspiration tonight!

     By Kimiko Wadriski on January 25, 2021 at 10:51 pm

389. I love writing in rhyme. I am trying expand my horizons and write in prose. Maybe a different angle to the story. Thank you.

     By Thelia Hutchinson on January 25, 2021 at 10:51 pm

390. What a great idea! Thanks so much for sharing.

     By Julia on January 25, 2021 at 10:53 pm

391. Angela, your post was very helpful! “Build a cage of your own making—-then see how to break out of it.” That is a perfect suggestion for results and for transferring control back to the writer/artist! I loved Kleon’s “Steal Like an Artist,” as well as Kim Stafford’s “Meditations and Poems for Writers” – both very encouraging. I think Shutta Crum mentioned setting constraints for herself with her wonderful one-word (!) book, “Mine!” You have a great idea here! Thank you again!

     By writeremmcbride on January 25, 2021 at 10:56 pm

392. Whenever I wonder if I’m going to make it to the end of the month, I surprise myself and come up with one or two ideas. I’ll have to check out your penguin book. Our first grade always does a unit on penguins every year. Thank you for your post!

     By Megan Whitaker on January 25, 2021 at 11:01 pm

393. Waddle, waddle! Thank you for your post! Some good ideas for sure.

     By susanfilkins on January 25, 2021 at 11:03 pm

394. This was a great idea that took me in some new directions. Thanks!

     By R.L.S. Hoff on January 25, 2021 at 11:03 pm

395. Love this idea! Thank you!

     By mariamarianayagam on January 25, 2021 at 11:05 pm

396. Thanks for the share. I’m going to take another look at constraints that will set me free!

     By Linda Sakai on January 25, 2021 at 11:06 pm

397. Great post. Thanks for the challenge. Here’s to seeing what comes of using a new constraint.

     By Maria Marshall on January 25, 2021 at 11:19 pm

398. This is just my kind of exercise, love this, thanks!

     By Charlotte Offsay on January 25, 2021 at 11:25 pm

399. Thank you Cindy and congratulations on Penguin Journey😀

     By Artelle Lenthall on January 25, 2021 at 11:29 pm

400. I loved reading the origin story for Penguin Journey! Thank you for your insights.

     By Nancy Vona on January 25, 2021 at 11:34 pm

401. I love the idea of constraining our options as a brainstorming activity. I’m trying it right now. Thanks!

     By Carol Gwin Nelson on January 25, 2021 at 11:35 pm

402. This is so great! Thanks for the tips and inspiration!

     By Kathiann Weatherbee (@WeatherbeeBooks) on January 25, 2021 at 11:36 pm

403. Thanks so much! This is very helpful! 🙂 Jill Dana

     By JillDanaBooks on January 25, 2021 at 11:43 pm

404. Contests are helpful for me because of word count limit or specific theme. This is great advice to think of starting point for a story outside of what we usually do.

     By Ashley Sierra (@AshleySierra06) on January 25, 2021 at 11:54 pm

405. Love this idea: freedom within bounds. I’ll have to challenge myself a bit more. Thanks for your post! And your opening lines to PENGUIN JOURNEY are beautiful!

     By jenlinville2021 on January 25, 2021 at 11:56 pm

406. Interesting advice in your article. I would love to receive this book.

     By Elise Katz on January 25, 2021 at 11:57 pm

407. I don’t know if you are aware of this- your post came out on the same day as Susanna Hill’s Valentiny contest! Guidelines require writing a story about the theme (with an arc!) that is kid friendly- all in 214 words! This, the Halloweensie Contest (similar in nature but only 100 words allowed!) and Vivian Kirkfields #50 Precious Words contests are some of my favorite writing challenges for just this reason. I have a cache of (very short) stories thanks to following this exact same advice. You are obviously on to something!

     By ingridboydston on January 26, 2021 at 12:01 am

408. Thanks for your advice. You second to last paragraph resonates with me a lot. I am a creature of habit and routine. Therefore, thinking about my creative process, and doing the opposite will definitely be a road worth exploring.

     By Erika Suckow on January 26, 2021 at 12:09 am

409. Amazing how engineering is so similar to the arts. Constraints, boundary conditions, and assumptions often force you into a solution….much like you describe constraints developing a story. I needed to read this today! Thank you!

     By Cathleen Collins on January 26, 2021 at 12:10 am

410. Great advice – thanks!

     By Heather Gallagher on January 26, 2021 at 12:14 am

411. This will be interesting to try. Thanks for the idea.

     By Cindy S on January 26, 2021 at 12:17 am

412. What a motivating post! Congratulations, too, on your new book. Very cool back story about how it came to be.

     By Jenny Boyd on January 26, 2021 at 12:18 am

413. I love it! Thanks for the advice! P.S. I really love penguins, too.

     By wyszguy on January 26, 2021 at 12:32 am

414. Angela, what a unique spin on the age-old brainstorming idea. Now that’s thinking “inside the box” with boundaries. Thank you.

     By Sharon Coffey on January 26, 2021 at 12:46 am

415. Great post. Thanks for sharing!

     By Christine M Irvin on January 26, 2021 at 1:09 am

416. Looking forward to trying this out! Thanks, Angela!

     By ruthwilson48 on January 26, 2021 at 1:16 am

417. Love the idea of going from excess to minimal. Great way to expand the creative instincts

     By PATRICIA OPPENHEIM on January 26, 2021 at 1:17 am

418. Fences allow you to build upward instead of meandering down the street. I love what constraints do for my creativity! Congrats on Penguin Journey. It sounds beautiful.

     By Lisa Kingsford on January 26, 2021 at 1:19 am

419. Love this approach! Thanks so much,Angela! Congratulations on your new book!

     By Shaunda Wenger on January 26, 2021 at 1:37 am

420. Using limitations to set yourself free – love it!

     By Renata Wurster on January 26, 2021 at 1:39 am

421. Great info!
     Brain flow.
     Mind blown.
     Not alone.

     By Susan J. Klaren on January 26, 2021 at 2:12 am

422. Thank you Angela! This is a great solution to the ‘staring at a blank page’ dilemma.

     By dazzlengsy on January 26, 2021 at 3:01 am

423. Thank you for sharing

     By savannahpalma on January 26, 2021 at 3:13 am

424. Your post reminds me that true artistry can come forward when you dare to try something different. Thanks!

     By @carriecookhere Carrie Cook on January 26, 2021 at 3:17 am

425. ANGELA: I, too, am one of those people who writes a BAZILLION words, and then painfully cuts, cuts, CUTS AWAY! THANK YOU for the INSPIRATION to challenge myself by setting limitations. This is TRULY the MOST UNIQUE post! In our chosen fields, we’re constantly being told to NOT set boundaries–to go above and beyond. But here, you’ve given us MORE FREEDOM by learning the IMPORTANCE of setting some limitations. THANK YOU for the INSPIRATION!!! Now, perhaps I can try my hand at writing something that focuses more on the illustrations, MAKING myself HAVE TO use fewer words in the process. I CAN’T WAIT to see where this takes me! I’m SCARED AND EXCITED ALL AT ONCE!!! 😉 

     By Natalie Lynn Tanner on January 26, 2021 at 3:30 am

426. I love this counterintuitive idea and will definitely use it.

     By Hanna Geshelin on January 26, 2021 at 3:37 am

427. Thanks for so many great ideas in so few words! You are true to your theme. I just generated 6 ideas using a random word generator. They might not all be good, but one in there might be …
     I am going to also sit down and identify all my stories, whether they began with character, or setting, were in rhyme or prose, or both…
     I know I’ve done varied.. but finding my pattern might help me stir the pot again.

     By bonnie fireUrchin ~ pb illustration & writing on January 26, 2021 at 3:40 am

428. Thank you. It seems like being flexible was also important in your success.

     By Sharon E. Langley on January 26, 2021 at 4:04 am

429. How wonderful! I took part in Susanna Hill’s writing contest last year and it challenged me in exactly the same way. I had so much fun doing it and you’ve inspired me to do it more. Thank you!

     By Sensitive and Extraordinary Kids on January 26, 2021 at 4:06 am

430. Self constraint – now that’s an interesting idea. Picture Books already have a restraint, so adding more is a challenge.

     By steveheron on January 26, 2021 at 5:07 am

431. Thank you Angela for your helpful post. It’s so easy to get into a rut, but so much harder to get out of it again.

     By Lydia Loeber on January 26, 2021 at 6:22 am

432. Thanks for this post, Angela. Self constraint? I’ll try!

     By mona861 on January 26, 2021 at 7:38 am

433. I love this idea and think it will be very fun to implement. Thanks for your article!

     By Jamie Bills on January 26, 2021 at 7:47 am

434. Great idea! Will be interesting to try!

     By Jessica Coupé on January 26, 2021 at 8:33 am

435. I always work well with “assignments” . It takes me right back to grade school and wanting to get an “A”.

     By Julia A Mills on January 26, 2021 at 8:56 am

436. Constraints are the BEST! It’s why I love writing contests and challenges. I participate in a poem-a-week challenge that does exactly what you describe. A word is chosen at random and we need to create a poem around it, using that word as part of a rhyme pair. It’s AMAZING what the brain will come up with when it has such a constraint. 4 out of the last 5 PB manuscripts I’ve written have come from this method. Congrats on your latest book! Sounds adorable! Will definitely check it out!
     Rebecca Gardyn Levington

     By Rebecca Gardyn Levington on January 26, 2021 at 9:09 am

437. What a wonderful challenge.

     By Anita Banks on January 26, 2021 at 9:11 am

438. Great post about how structure/limitations can add so much support in the creative process! One reason I love writing contests/challenges (like Susanna Leonard Hill’s upcoming Valentiny contest!). Sometimes I forget this can be done without a contest to write for 🙂 Thank you so much, Angela!

     By Nicole Loos Miller on January 26, 2021 at 9:14 am

439. Thank you for sharing this fantastic perspective on creativity! My first drafts are always too long as well, and I end up surprised by what I create with constraints. Hooray for writing challenges!

     By pbbeckyk on January 26, 2021 at 9:17 am

440. Great post, Angela! I’m always looking for new ways to challenge myself. I adored DIGGING FOR WORDS. Looking forward to reading your future books!

     By sherry fellores on January 26, 2021 at 9:18 am

441. Thank you sharing this limitation concept. It is something I will have to try!

     By Bettie Boswell on January 26, 2021 at 9:23 am

442. Constrained creativity – love it! Maybe it’s why I love participating in writing challenges with set word counts, themes, and sometimes even must-use words. Thanks for the insightful post!

     By ptnozell on January 26, 2021 at 9:25 am

443. I love the concept of constrained creativity! Thank you for the prompt.

     By Jay on January 26, 2021 at 9:46 am

444. I love the idea of working with constraints. I gives me a jumping off point. I will try varying constraints, as the author suggested.

     By Debra Katz on January 26, 2021 at 9:49 am

445. Great advice. Thank you for sharing.

     By jms5880 on January 26, 2021 at 10:14 am

446. Thanks for the advice!

     By Rona Shirdan on January 26, 2021 at 10:24 am

447. I love it. Thank you!

     By Cedar Pruitt on January 26, 2021 at 10:35 am

448. This made me think… how do my ideas usually start? Hmmm. While I figure that out I’m going to try to start using the ways you shared. Thanks!

     By Christine Fleming McIsaac on January 26, 2021 at 10:38 am

449. Thank you for the fresh look at constraints.

     By freda lewkowicz on January 26, 2021 at 11:07 am

450. Great tips! Thanks so much. And congratulations!!

     By curryelizabeth on January 26, 2021 at 11:25 am

451. Intimidating but intriguing! You’d already gotten me started. I usually start with character, but perhaps a setting! Thank you.

     By Barbara Senenman on January 26, 2021 at 11:38 am

452. This is one of the things I love most about writing picture books–the constraints. They’re challenging (and tough!), but I feel like they keep me from feeling nearly as lost as I did when I was trying to write novels. 💖

     By beckylevine on January 26, 2021 at 11:39 am

453. Interesting idea, Angela. I’ll give it a try. Thank you.

     By Arlene Schenker on January 26, 2021 at 11:44 am

454. Thanks, Angela. Creative constraints seem to make the blank page a little less blank for me. ❤

     By Christine @ Goodjelly on January 26, 2021 at 11:53 am

455. thank you! definitely an interesting and valuable approach to shake up the norm!

     By Karen Gebbia on January 26, 2021 at 12:00 pm

456. Ooh, I like the idea of constraints helping creativity. It sounds counter-intuitive, but I think it would work for me. Thanks!

     By HelenAddyman on January 26, 2021 at 12:02 pm

457. This worked for me with a recent SCBWI regional party activity. 12 lines for drawing and/or 12 word poem for a child and I won, but I really had to think differently. I also loved you took on the challenge of your editor’s requests and this resulted in a published book. Congrats!

     By Laurel Goodluck on January 26, 2021 at 12:22 pm

458. Thank you for the ideas! Going to try boxing myself in a little to see if I can break out!

     By Shannon Fossett on January 26, 2021 at 12:24 pm

459. As a way-too-wordy writer, I’m impressed you got an entire manuscript in 69 words. That’s my challenge for today. Thanks for sharing how Penguin Journey developed. I, too, love ‘waddle waddle.’ Hope you find another story for it!

     By marty on January 26, 2021 at 12:42 pm

460. I love the brilliantly counterintuitive thinking of boundaries providing unlimited freedom. Can’t wait to try it! Thank you.

     By Kristin Sawyer on January 26, 2021 at 12:47 pm

461. Very impressive strategy. I am going to have to try this! Many thanks.

     By Cindy Jeklin on January 26, 2021 at 12:58 pm

462. Deadlines and themes of contests always get me going faster than just the blank page of a new picture book.

     By Lauri Meyers on January 26, 2021 at 1:14 pm

463. There are really helpful ideas in your post – thank you!

     By Mary-Claire on January 26, 2021 at 2:05 pm

464. Love the idea of finding your writing habits and doing the opposite. Thank you!

     By brittanypomales on January 26, 2021 at 2:07 pm

465. Thanks for the post! Angie Isaacs

     By angie9091 on January 26, 2021 at 2:21 pm

466. Will be an interesting concept for me to start in a different direction from my usual. I am the worst in judging my own work. Need to stop listening to that! Thank you

     By sharon lane holm on January 26, 2021 at 2:24 pm

467. Love this constraint challenge. As an author-illustrator I’ve often found imposing limitations on my drawing (like starting with someone’s random squiggle) brings me somewhere I would never have explored if given the freedom of a blank white page! Same for writing!

     By aidantalkin on January 26, 2021 at 2:25 pm

468. Great strategy for getting unstuck.
     Thanks!!!

     By Diane Kress Hower on January 26, 2021 at 2:30 pm

469. This is one of my favorite posts of the month. Limitations really are a stimulant. This sparked a few ideas. Thank you!

     By rgstones on January 26, 2021 at 2:32 pm

470. Thanks for sharing how a phrase turned into a concept and into a book!

     By Naomi Gruer on January 26, 2021 at 2:36 pm

471. Thank you for such an inspiring post! Congratulations on your books!!

     By Shirley Ng-Benitez on January 26, 2021 at 2:40 pm

472. Thank you, Angela, for the examples and the suggestions. This information really helped me generate some ideas. 🙂 — Kim

     By naturewalkwithgod on January 26, 2021 at 3:08 pm

473. Great suggestions. Thanks for sharing.

     By Dawn M. on January 26, 2021 at 3:12 pm

474. I strongly agree that a blank page without any constraints is far more daunting. Thanks for encouraging limits as a way to increase output.

     By Sondra Z on January 26, 2021 at 3:22 pm

475. Thats a great idea!I can’t wait to get started, thank you.

     By JC on January 26, 2021 at 3:29 pm

476. Thank you. I tend to write too sparsely. I will try the opposite and write something way to long and then cut.

     By Trine Grillo on January 26, 2021 at 3:48 pm

477. As this month progresses, it continues to be fascinating to learn how other authors create. Thanks for your take. It makes sense.

     By Deborah W. Trotter on January 26, 2021 at 4:30 pm

478. I used to think it was counterintuitive for creative people to set limits for themselves, but it actually forces you to be even more creative. Thanks for sharing your success story!

     By Julie Reich on January 26, 2021 at 4:37 pm

479. Thanks for a great post, Angela! I love your idea of imposing creative challenges and limitations. Best of luck with your upcoming book!

     By Melissa Stoller on January 26, 2021 at 4:42 pm

480. I love the idea of placing limitations! Can’t wait to come up with a creative way to try it out. Thanks for sharing!

     By Jen Helwig on January 26, 2021 at 5:13 pm

481. Doing the opposite of what I normally do. I’m up for the challenge!

     By Kaye Wright on January 26, 2021 at 5:28 pm

482. Many years ago, I loved writing in lyrical verse – the limitations of having to fit a rhyme-and-meter scheme were also liberating, as you say. I love the idea of trying this for writing a picture book or story as well. Thank you, Angela!

     By Amy Fae on January 26, 2021 at 5:38 pm

483. What a creative approach. Thanks for sharing.

     By shirley301 on January 26, 2021 at 5:39 pm

484. Angela, this is so helpful. I love so many words that I often have a hard time limiting myself. Here’s to trying new techniques to generate ideas.

     By susanzonca on January 26, 2021 at 6:00 pm

485. Great idea! I’m terrible at limiting my first draft of words. I’m going to try this strategy. Thank you!

     By Sarah Stuart on January 26, 2021 at 6:03 pm

486. This advice is truly novel. “Build a cage of your own making then see how to break out of it”… I can find at least at least ten stories from that one sentence. Thank you. 🙂

     By Marilyn R Garcia on January 26, 2021 at 6:27 pm

487. Thanks for participating!! Congratulations on your latest book!

     By Kelly Conroy on January 26, 2021 at 6:27 pm

488. I love the suggestion of creating constraints to inspire new ideas. Working on problems or a new way of seeing things always makes me more creative!

     By Andrea Mack on January 26, 2021 at 6:54 pm

489. Great post. Thanks for the inspiration, Angela.

     By Laura De La Cruz on January 26, 2021 at 7:29 pm

490. Super cool suggestion. Thank you!

     By Michele Helsel on January 26, 2021 at 7:39 pm

491. Thanks for this suggestion! Lynn Street

     By streetlynn on January 26, 2021 at 7:48 pm

492. Thanks for the post! I look forward to reading your latest book.

     By kathydoherty1 on January 26, 2021 at 8:02 pm

493. Helpful post.

     By Sue (Susan Uhlig) (@susanuhlig) on January 26, 2021 at 8:33 pm

494. Love this suggestion, Angela. I’ll be eager to read your new book!

     By jensubra on January 26, 2021 at 8:54 pm

495. Thanks for your post!

     By jjarson1 on January 26, 2021 at 9:21 pm

496. Goodness I love this post so much. Thank you for writing it! Every word resonates, challenges and inspires me. I can’t wait to set some new constraints and play on the pager. Thank you for this post, Angela!

     By Robin Bailey on January 26, 2021 at 10:04 pm

497. I am going to get a dictionary right now and let my finger waddle!! Great idea and thank you.

     By Meredith Fraser on January 26, 2021 at 11:02 pm

498. Loved reading your post! Thank you.

     By Sylvia Mary Grech on January 26, 2021 at 11:14 pm

499. I like the idea of doing the opposite of your natural tendencies. I have only been writing for about 10 months and I have 2 possible book manuscripts but they are very different. I definitely tend to be wordy. Thanks for the advice.

     By Melissa Warren on January 26, 2021 at 11:32 pm

500. Yay…another justification for my growing dictionary collection!

     By sharonkdal on January 26, 2021 at 11:39 pm

501. Hi Angela, I love STEAL LIKE AN ARTIST and all the Austin Kleon books. Thanks for a great post!

     By Rebekah Lowell on January 27, 2021 at 12:01 am

502. So smart to challenge yourself, both with word count and rhyming. I can’t wait to read your book!

     By manuscriptmechanic on January 27, 2021 at 1:27 am

503. What great advice! Thank you!

     By Kathy Crable on January 27, 2021 at 1:48 am

504. Thank you for sharing your personal journey with your penguin book. Can’t wait to read Digging for Words.

     By storiesbythesea on January 27, 2021 at 2:41 am

505. Outstanding post. Thank you for the insights (and tulips).

     By Heather Kinser on January 27, 2021 at 2:45 am

506. wow. just wow!

     By Marzieh Abbas on January 27, 2021 at 6:49 am

507. LOVE this idea generating approach! Thank you so much for sharing.

     By cravevsworld on January 27, 2021 at 7:27 am

508. What a good idea. Thanks for this post!

     By ofmariaantonia on January 27, 2021 at 8:47 am

509. This is actually what I like about writing in rhyme (even though I don’t write in rhyme very often!): just like with word counts, the limits imposed by rhyme and meter give me a clear focus.

     By calliebdean on January 27, 2021 at 9:46 am

510. Thank you so much, Angela! I LOVE this idea! Your book sounds adorable and I can’t wait to read it.

     By donnacangelosi on January 27, 2021 at 10:53 am

511. Thanks for the reminder to give yourself fun exercises to spice it up.

     By Lynn Alpert on January 27, 2021 at 10:54 am

512. “how could you do the opposite” — what a perfect challenge. Thanks, Angela!

     By Val McC on January 27, 2021 at 11:24 am

513. Great post, Angela! I love your suggestions for getting us out of our comfort zones. It’s constraints vs. comforts.

     By CindyC on January 27, 2021 at 11:35 am

514. What an interesting exercise. I wouldn’t have thought to set limits to be more creative!

     By Joy Wieder on January 27, 2021 at 12:16 pm

515. FABULOUS!

     By Tania on January 27, 2021 at 12:32 pm

516. I am always struggling to “make it short!” Thanks for this!

     By 58chilihed13 on January 27, 2021 at 12:33 pm

517. Limits totally help. Great read. Thank you.

     By Laura N. Clement on January 27, 2021 at 1:04 pm

518. Brilliant. Exactly what I need to hear today. Thank you!

     By LenoraBiemans (@BiemansLenora) on January 27, 2021 at 1:08 pm

519. Love this concept! Thank you Angela!
     Anna Levin

     By rhumba20 on January 27, 2021 at 1:25 pm

520. I loved Digging for Words and look forward to Penguin Journey!

     By annettepimentel on January 27, 2021 at 1:54 pm

521. Great advice, thank you! Also fascinating to see how the text of your story changed.

     By Coral Jenrette on January 27, 2021 at 1:54 pm

522. Ahhhh…but the knowing where to cut? That’s where the “rub” will be, right? Thanks for the inspiration.

     By paulabpuckett on January 27, 2021 at 2:07 pm

523. Love the quote, “Limitation means freedom.”

     By Susan Niemann on January 27, 2021 at 2:54 pm

524. What a terrific challenge! I love this: “…build a cage of your own making—then see how to break out of it. You just might like what you come up with as you plot your escape.”

     By LaurenKerstein on January 27, 2021 at 3:03 pm

525. Maybe this is why contests are such idea sparkers?! I’m on board, Angela. Thank you!

     By Wendy Greenley on January 27, 2021 at 3:12 pm

526. Hi Angela! I needed to hear your words of advice today. Can’t wait to read your books. Thank you!

     By Joni Hay Patras on January 27, 2021 at 3:49 pm

527. Letting ideas come without judgment is not just hard but sometimes deflating- Great idea but now what?
     The cage image works well – capture just part of the idea, not the whole forest surrounding it! Thank you, Angela:)

     By patti ranson on January 27, 2021 at 4:07 pm

528. Great insights! Poetic forms can be freeing in much the same way.

     By libbydemmon on January 27, 2021 at 4:19 pm

529. Thanks for sharing! Love the perspective.

     By paulaobering on January 27, 2021 at 5:15 pm

530. Like the exercise I did at a workshop where we were given a topic and asked to brainstorm vocabulary relating to it. All these words went up on a whiteboard – over 100 of them – and then we were asked to write on that topic without using any of those words! We had to get very creative.

     By Sheri on January 27, 2021 at 6:05 pm

531. I love the thought of approaching your writing and stories from different angles. Thank you!

     By stacey miller on January 27, 2021 at 6:06 pm

532. Oh, I love your idea of creative limitations. I’m definitely going to try this.

     By suzannepoulterharris on January 27, 2021 at 6:13 pm

533. Hockney as an inspiration for writing – great idea!

     By mariearden on January 27, 2021 at 6:38 pm

534. Love following the process of this story… “stretching the brain” and being open to the flow of the Universe is the path of really good books. ♥

     By Vera Lisa Smetzer on January 27, 2021 at 7:07 pm

535. Get rid of your favorite words AND try to rhyme???? Whoa… not sure I could do that! Good job!!

     By kidlitgail on January 27, 2021 at 7:12 pm

536. Such a smart approach — thanks for the inspiration!

     By Jennifer on January 27, 2021 at 7:43 pm

537. Helpful advice here!

     By Bill Canterbury on January 27, 2021 at 7:45 pm

538. Thank you for your inspiring post! I liked the challenges you mentioned for creating story ideas.

     By Mark Ceilley on January 27, 2021 at 9:06 pm

539. Angela! I was just talking about your 1st book with a mutual friend of ours (Elise) and saying how I remember reading about it during StoryStorm and now here you are again! Thank you for this great advice. I am always helped along by a constraint!

     By marykatesmithdespres on January 27, 2021 at 10:01 pm

540. Your penguin book sounds wonderful. Thank you for your ideas to use creative limitations

     By claireannette1 on January 27, 2021 at 10:15 pm

541. This advice resonates with me! I have done something like this before but didn’t consider it an exercise I should continue. Now I am definitely going to look at other ways to challenge myself.

     By Sarah Skolfield on January 27, 2021 at 10:53 pm

542. Neat idea to try with my brainstorming and writing – thank you, Angela!

     By Beth Elliott on January 27, 2021 at 11:16 pm

543. Great idea! Limitations is why I love writing contests like Fall Writing Frenzy or Halloweensie.

     By Karen Pickrell on January 27, 2021 at 11:43 pm

544. Interesting technique and one worth trying. Thanks

     By Judith Snyder on January 27, 2021 at 11:58 pm

545. Something I used to hate as a kid was when we had prompts for writing exercises. I wanted to let my creative ideas flow without having the expectation of some boring prompt holding me down. But it wasn’t too long before I had a shift in perspective, right around the end of elementary school. I started looking forward to the prompts because I saw them for what they really were: a challenge to test the mettle of my imagination. Maybe they were too vague, or encouraging a certain type of response that I wasn’t interested in. How could I change that? How could I have fun with it and make it mine? These days, I meet prompts and guidelines with arms wide open (under the sunlight).

     By Jose Cruz on January 28, 2021 at 12:25 am

546. Thanks Angela, for illustrating the ideas of constraints and “cages” – I’m excited to try some!

     By Stephanie D Jones on January 28, 2021 at 2:03 am

547. Thank you for sharing this writing challenge, Angela!

     By Mary Beth Rice on January 28, 2021 at 3:13 am

548. Thanks, Angela, for giving me a new perspective. I do use refrain, like freewriting for ten minutes. But had not thought of using it in other ways.

     By Zoraida Rivera on January 28, 2021 at 9:41 am

549. Just reading the two quotes about limiting oneself and constraints in creative work felt liberating, thank you Angela!

     By babybluesnowflake on January 28, 2021 at 9:42 am

550. I’ve been working through prompts. This is helpful! Thank you so much for participating!

     By Misty Morris on January 28, 2021 at 10:34 am

551. A neat concept you have here, and one to ponder. Maybe you can use “waddle, waddle” somewhere else. It is FUN to say.

     By Sherri Jones Rivers on January 28, 2021 at 11:01 am

552. Thank you for that inspiring post!

     By Helen Lysicatos on January 28, 2021 at 11:27 am

553. Thank you for sharing.

     By acottykid on January 28, 2021 at 11:49 am

554. Interesting, Angela… box yourself in, and then blow out the walls. Thanks!

     By Babs Ostapina on January 28, 2021 at 12:04 pm

555. Ooooh! Break free of the cage of your own making!

     By Brenda Grant Lower on January 28, 2021 at 12:43 pm

556. Hi Angela! I believe limitations are great for creativity. Limitations push us out of our comfort zone and that’s when the growing really begins. Sometimes, being too free with our thoughts and words can hold us back from getting anything done. There are too many possibilities as far as the direction to take your story. Thank you for your insight. So much helpful information!

     By Nichole Bowers on January 28, 2021 at 2:03 pm

557. This really speaks to me–i need structure! Thank you Angela!

     By Amy H on January 28, 2021 at 2:09 pm

558. One more wonderful way to find ideas! This year’s Storystorm has been one of the most inspiring and your post just added one more idea to the mix. I think this is a great concept! Thanks you for sharing this.

     By Mary Zychowicz on January 28, 2021 at 2:28 pm

559. Oh my goodness, Angela. If an editor wanted me to rhyme, I would be so completely out of my depth. Wow. Way to go and push yourself. I guess you never know what you can do until you try, right? Thanks for the inspiration!

     By Aimee Satterlee on January 28, 2021 at 2:53 pm

560. I love the idea of putting constraints on brainstorming.

     By Katie L. Carroll on January 28, 2021 at 3:14 pm

561. Thank you for the wonderful idea Angela!

     By Deborah Foster on January 28, 2021 at 3:19 pm

562. You are inspirational with your flexibility and creativity. Your constraint writing exercise is fantastic. Thanks!

     By Karen Conley Chun on January 28, 2021 at 3:20 pm

563. Thank you for the inspiration. Now if I can just stop rhyming!

     By LAURA BARENS on January 28, 2021 at 4:01 pm

564. Placing your own constraints and then plotting your escape is a great exercise! I’m currently trying to cut my current WIP in half. Thank you, Angela!

     By Judy Bryan on January 28, 2021 at 4:06 pm

565. Thank you for this post and sharing.

     By Aimee Larke on January 28, 2021 at 5:47 pm

566. I love imposing limitations. Thanks for the post!

     By amyrsinn on January 28, 2021 at 6:51 pm

567. Great idea of opening the dictionary or a random book and pointing to a word to start a story.

     By Caren on January 28, 2021 at 7:24 pm

568. Love the limitations idea, which is akin to doing flash fiction challenges. It forces you to be inventive! Also, thanks for the David Hockney quote and images – he’s a huge source of inspiration to me, not only for his work, but for continuing to experiment as he ages. Thanks for a wonderful post, Angela!

     By clairebobrow on January 28, 2021 at 7:40 pm

569. Now I have to consider what my patterns are so that I can limit them.

     By TL Fales on January 28, 2021 at 7:47 pm

570. Thanks so much! I agree that creative limitations have power–thanks for the reminder! I’m going to go to the dictionary now and see which words I find and where it leads! Thanks!

     By Diane O'Neill on January 28, 2021 at 8:17 pm

571. This is such a good post thank you! I also tend to write double my intended word count and have to cut cut cut. I can’t wait to try this limitation idea.

     By Susannah Crispe on January 28, 2021 at 8:40 pm

572. PENGUIN JOURNEY sounds great! And these tips using structure and confines are really helpful! They helped me generate 2 new ideas! Thanks for the inspiration! Good luck on your own writing journey!

     By Tonnye W. Fletcher on January 28, 2021 at 8:54 pm

573. Constraints I understand!

     By Karen L Ledbetter on January 28, 2021 at 10:48 pm

574. Quotes from Austin Kleon & David Hockney got my attention from the get go. Your journey with Penguin Journey is inspirational. Constraints are good.

     By topangamaria on January 29, 2021 at 1:21 am

575. Your spare opening lines show how evocative even just a few words can be when they are the right ones. Quality over quantity, and a good reminder about the way limits can lead to something new.

     By BethN on January 29, 2021 at 7:41 am

576. I LOVE the waddle, waddle line! I can just picture a cute little penguin waddling 🙂

     By Meaghan Br on January 29, 2021 at 7:56 am

577. This is great! I struggle with word count all the time. 🙂

     By melissamiles1 on January 29, 2021 at 12:36 pm

578. I love the idea of letting ideas come without judgement and then plotting an escape. Thank you!

     By Patricia Alcaro on January 29, 2021 at 1:26 pm

579. I have connected with what you said and who you are on so many levels. This is the way I work…. sort of disheveled… sort of pick a form… sort of find a theme… sort of meet a deadline and it flows! I am a teacher, a doctor of education, a creativity prof, a writer and a beginning illustrator. See…. a disheveled mess, but somehow it all works! Thanks for the affirmations!

     By syorkeviney on January 29, 2021 at 1:41 pm

580. My first drafts are often about twice as long as they need to be, and I swear I’m trying to be conservative when I write them. I LOVE sparse rhyme, and have a couple of my own. Thank you for this idea of building ourselves a cage and then figuring out how to break out of it!

     By Susie Sawyer on January 29, 2021 at 3:39 pm

581. I’m definitely going to have to challenge myself and try this!

     By Kimberly Wilson on January 29, 2021 at 3:47 pm

582. I think about this often! How limitations inspire us…I get overwhelmed without them.

     By kaitlinsikeswrites on January 29, 2021 at 4:06 pm

583. Wow, what you can do with limitations. Congratulations on your ways of thinking and your new book coming out.

     By Virginia Rinkel on January 29, 2021 at 4:21 pm

584. My creative juices are flowing! How great!

     By Masha Sapron on January 29, 2021 at 5:17 pm

585. Fantastic prompt for the day. I adored this, and 2 days later and still adding to the word bank for fun ideas.

     By Patricia Tiffany Morris on January 29, 2021 at 6:53 pm

586. Interesting twist on brainstorming.

     By rjtraxel on January 30, 2021 at 3:33 am

587. I needed this reminder about the power of constraints right now. Thank you!!

     By kelliejanebyrnes on January 30, 2021 at 5:13 am

588. This is exactly what I needed to work on sparse text. Thank you, Angela.

     By Dee Knabb on January 30, 2021 at 7:03 am

589. I love this reminder. Thank you!

     By Joy Pitcairn on January 30, 2021 at 8:31 am

590. Great advice. I do find my ideas flow when I look at things from a different perspective. Thanks!

     By Beth Charles on January 30, 2021 at 9:48 am

591. I love a challenge. What a great way to try out something new. The teenager in me wants to rebel, but the mom in me thinks imposing limitations is a cool idea to try something new! Thanks for sharing!

     By Kari Gonzalez on January 30, 2021 at 11:00 am

592. Oh, absolutely! A wide open page or brain or space can be suffocating. I definitely thrive better with a little bit of fencing. 🙂

     By Elizabeth Metz on January 30, 2021 at 11:35 am

593. Wow! I never thought about limitations this way, but it’s so true!

     By Kristy Nuttall on January 30, 2021 at 11:40 am

594. Such an interesting idea! I’m going to take one of my manuscripts and limit the way I want to say it to see if it helps me hone in on the heart of the story. Thanks!

     By Ellen Leventhal on January 30, 2021 at 12:16 pm

595. Those are beautiful opening lines! It never ceases to amaze me how much emotion and information can be packed into such sparse text.

     By Anna Brooks on January 30, 2021 at 12:34 pm

596. Yes! This is great. Build the cage to break free. Cool exercise. Thanks!

     By teacherwriteracker on January 30, 2021 at 12:42 pm

597. I love constraints! (My constraint was my comment had to be only 3 words!)

     By Bonnie Auslander on January 30, 2021 at 1:11 pm

598. Nice exercise.

     By colleenrkosinski on January 30, 2021 at 1:32 pm

599. Thank you for the inspiration!

     By AlisonMarcotte on January 30, 2021 at 4:33 pm

600. I love this idea! Thanks for sharing.

     By Renée Neubauer on January 30, 2021 at 4:44 pm

601. A great look at constraints. Thank you for the post.

     By dlapmandi on January 30, 2021 at 5:46 pm

602. I love this idea…I write like I talk, which is a lot! We need to change this! Thank you for the challenge! Great post!

     By Kelly Vavala on January 30, 2021 at 5:53 pm

603. Angela, no joke, just bought Digging For Words TODAY! I wholeheartedly agree with you about creativity blossoming under constraint. I’ve played with constraints in my grown-up writing (essays love constraints.), but not with kid-lit. I’m dying to experiment! Congratulations on Penguin Journey.

     By Amy M. Miller on January 30, 2021 at 8:38 pm

604. This is a great idea! Thank you so much for your insight.

     By jennyb_writes on January 30, 2021 at 9:55 pm

605. Your post has inspired me to work in a new way. Thank you for gifting us with new ideas to inspire creativity.

     By Amy Bradshaw on January 30, 2021 at 9:57 pm

606. Angela, I like the idea to play with our self-imposed limitations in our daily basics. Congrats for your book “Penguin Journey”I wish I could read this year.

     By Gaby on January 30, 2021 at 10:34 pm

607. This is a great reminder of the power of constraint! I’ve seen it be true whenever I’ve participated in Madness Poetry, and need to put it in practice more regularly. Thank you for your insight!

     By Amelia Shearer on January 30, 2021 at 10:39 pm

608. Imposing creative limitations and deadlines work well for me — thanks for sharing.

     By Ave Maria Cross on January 30, 2021 at 10:43 pm

609. Great approach! And beautiful opening lines for PENGUIN JOURNEY!!

     By kristenrashid on January 30, 2021 at 10:53 pm

610. I love this idea! Restricting but freeing. Thank you!

     By Betsy Devany on January 31, 2021 at 8:44 am

611. Finding ideas without judgment and setting creative limitations before you start writing is a great exercise to try! Thank you, Angela.

     By Lisa L Furness on January 31, 2021 at 9:06 am

612. This is such empowering advice – set limitations! Wow – I would never have thought of this, but I’ll be trying this for sure.

     By doreenrobinson on January 31, 2021 at 9:13 am

613. I so relate to this post, Angela! I love writing spare rhyme. Look forward to finding your book.

     By littleredstoryshed on January 31, 2021 at 9:25 am

614. Can’t wait to see your Penguin Journey. That snippet is exquisite!

     By Laura Purdie Salas on January 31, 2021 at 9:38 am

615. I am definitely going to try your “point to a word in the dictionary” idea. Thanks, Angela.

     By jimchaize1 on January 31, 2021 at 11:43 am

616. What a great tip! Thanks for sharing David Hockney’s quote. Inspiring!

     By Kathy Berman on January 31, 2021 at 1:27 pm

617. I had a critique group once that would give assignments like that every once in a while. It’s good to challenge yourself – you might find some hidden talents & gems!

     By Debbie Meyer on January 31, 2021 at 1:50 pm

618. This is a fun approach I’m going to try. BTW, I just reluctantly returned DIGGING FOR WORDS to the library. Loved it!

     By Lou Aamodt on January 31, 2021 at 1:55 pm

619. Angela, thanks for your idea to impose some constraints. I feel the opening in that. Your writing sounds so poetic!

     By Yehudit Sarah on January 31, 2021 at 2:36 pm

620. Thank you and great tip!

     By Michelle Kashinsky on January 31, 2021 at 3:04 pm

621. Thanks so much, Angela!

     By Melissa McDaniel on January 31, 2021 at 4:10 pm

622. I am waiting for Digging for Words from our public library! I love the idea of some constraints – it is kind of like haiku with the syllable count – it forces you to choose the best words.

     By Anne LeBlanc Gr 4/5 teacher 🇨🇦📚❤️✍️🖖😃 (@AnneLeBlanc2) on January 31, 2021 at 5:02 pm

623. Your advice on limitations for writing tp become more creative is one I haven’t come across, but I have experienced it for sure during my art class days! It’s interesting how the mind operates when you’re only allowed to work with certain parameters.

     By Naria Gaarder on January 31, 2021 at 5:39 pm

624. Thanks, Angela. This is a fabulous idea.

     By Judy Palermo on January 31, 2021 at 8:47 pm

625. In awe of your editing and revision bravery!

     By Lisa Clewner on January 31, 2021 at 9:00 pm

626. Your story sounds beautiful! I look forward to reading it.

     By Jen Walsh Hawks on January 31, 2021 at 9:46 pm

627. Penguin Journey sounds lovely. It’s interesting how the revision process works. I do like the idea of doing the opposite of my tendencies. Sounds promising.

     By Mary Worley on January 31, 2021 at 10:08 pm

628. Thank you so much for the challenge to write against our tendencies, Angela!

     By Jolene Ballard Gutiérrez on January 31, 2021 at 11:41 pm

629. It’s funny, but sometimes I find comfort and structure when I start a draft under conditions like a rule-laden writing contest or with a shortened rhyme scheme. Some of my favorite rhymers have come from conditions like that!

     By Jennifer Broedel (@JBroedelAuthor) on February 1, 2021 at 1:11 am

630. Great idea! Thank you!

     By Rachel S. Hobbs Gunn on February 1, 2021 at 2:48 am

631. These are great suggestions. Thanks!

     By srkckass on February 1, 2021 at 8:20 am

632. Thanks for the prompt!

     By Jen (aka RandomlyGenerated) on February 1, 2021 at 1:54 pm

633. Great suggestions. Thanks Angela!

     By jeanjames926 on February 1, 2021 at 2:05 pm

634. “Build a cage and then find a way to break out of it.” I love that!

     By Audrey on February 1, 2021 at 5:10 pm

635. Loved your suggestions, Angela. Very helpful indeed!

     By angiecal76 on February 1, 2021 at 6:24 pm

636. Thanks for the ideas and inspiration!

     By kmshelley on February 1, 2021 at 10:44 pm

637. Thank you so very much for sharing your inspiration, Angela! Best of luck with your book.

     By Lynne Marie on February 2, 2021 at 1:41 pm

638. I love the concept of imposing limitations – on lots of areas of life. It’s very freeing. Thanks!

     By Meghan B on February 2, 2021 at 5:26 pm

639. Thanks, Angela! It’s intriguing to think of freedom coming more freely through limitations. 🤔

     By mandyyokim on February 2, 2021 at 9:15 pm

640. Great post! It’s intriguing to think you can break out of a rut by imposing limitations on yourself. Thank you!!

     By Karan Greene on February 3, 2021 at 12:09 am

641. Oh! Will need to try this sometime, thank you for the great suggestions!

     By sylviaichen on February 5, 2021 at 6:05 am

642. Love this: What are your tendencies, and how could you do the opposite? Thank you!

     By Dea Brayden on February 5, 2021 at 7:31 pm

643. Really helpful post. Thanks!

     By KASteed on February 5, 2021 at 9:47 pm

644. Limits definitely help me focus. Always a good reminder.

     By Lindsay Brayden Ellis on February 6, 2021 at 12:22 am

645. Thanks for sharing your process and how you adapted!

     By lorisherritt on February 17, 2021 at 9:55 pm

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