Would you want to know everything? It would simplify some things and massively complicate other things. And you’d always know how a book ended before you read it, so that would be annoying.

Much of the conflict in stories is based on a lack of key knowledge: for instance, romantic comedies often hinge on a misunderstanding between the characters (e.g. the girl he’s hugging is his sister, not his girlfriend); spy movies are about who the mole in the operation is or what the secret password it; adventure movies might be about the location of the lost temple, etc. If characters knew everything, stories would be a lot less interesting.

Story Prompt: August 29, 2022

Write a story that depends on one key piece of information.

If you want to share your story, you can either email me at info@greenwalledtreehouse.com or submit it at the link here. I’d love to publish your story as well.

Remember to get enough sleep.