Have you ever read a story where the fate of the world rests on what the characters do? Probably, since that’s a lot of stories. This is what is called a high-stakes story and the reason they are so common is that the higher the stakes, the more we are invested in it all turning out alright. People probably wouldn’t be as invested in Frodo’s journey in The Lord of the Rings if he was traveling to Mordor to deliver a misdirected letter.
Still, sometimes it’s nice to read a story where the fate of the world is not at stake. Sure, the characters are very invested, but it’s not the end of the world, even if it feels like it. Maybe it’s a story about someone trying to hide a birthday present from their brother or sister or trying to catch a taxi in the rain. You can still write the story dramatically, of course.
Story Prompt: January 27, 2025
Write a low-stakes story.
You can choose anything for this, but try to come up with something very low stakes. Never forget that just because the stakes are low doesn’t mean the characters feel like they’re low.
I’d love to know what you come up with if you write a story. You can send me a link if you write a story for this prompt and post it on your own site or send it to me at info@greenwalledtreehouse.com. You can also submit your story here for a chance to have it published on the site next week.
Have a good week. You got this!
The Green-Walled Treehouse 
Excellent. I just finished one up this morning that I think should fit the bill. Thank you for everything you do.
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That’s great!
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Every Monday when I drop lunch off to a friend, I try very hard not to be noticed. I sneak in. Hide in a corner where the meeting that’s taking place can’t see me. After my friend discovers I’m there receiving his lunch, I sneak back out like Mata Hari. I do this to not draw attention to my random act of kindness, and so not to embarrass my friend. I hope I’m succeeding. 🙂
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That’s a wonderful sort of low stakes conflict. After all, just because it’s low stakes, doesn’t mean it’s not important. 🙂 Thank you.
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There’s such a comfort in low stakes. 🙂
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Back with my offering. I call it Cruel Culture. Thank you for this opportunity to share my story link. I look forward to reading any other entries.
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That’s wonderful, Violet. Thank you for linking it. I look forward to reading it. I can give you a shoutout and link your story in the next post as well. 🙂
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Hey David, are you the same David Stewart I know from Friday Fictioneers? I just landed on your site and will be submitting something soon. Are you set up for pingbacks? See ya! – Nancy
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Hi David! Here’s mine:
https://theelephantstrunk.org/2025/01/30/of-all-the-days/
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Hi Nancy, thanks for sharing it. I’ll link it to the post tomorrow.
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