Have you ever read or written a story around one word? I don’t mean as a theme, but literally using the same word multiple times in the story. Sometimes this technique can be used ironically when a word has more than one meaning or it can just be done for fun. I can’t think of a specific example, so I wrote a short one below, just for fun.

Story Prompt: March 17, 2025

Write a story around one word (that’s used several times in the story)

Example Story:

Crazy Times

Don and Eric sat on the front porch.

“Crazy weather, isn’t this?” Don said.

Eric nodded. “Crazy.”

“Supposed to be worse next week.”

“You know what’s crazy, these gas prices.”

“Ugh, I know, right? Downright crazy.”

They sat in silence a bit.

“You know,” Eric said, “they say you’re not supposed to say that anymore.”

“Say what?”

“Crazy. You’re supposed to say mentally ill. It’s more polite.”

“Well, that’s just crazy!”

“I know, but times change. You don’t want to be insensitive.”

“Well, that’s true.”

There was another moment of silence.

“Did you hear what the mayor said yesterday?”

“Oh, about the park? I know, right?” He shook his head. “What an absolutely mentally ill situation.”

* * *

This story is not meant to at all minimize actual mental illness, just to be clear.

If you have a story like this you want to share or if you write one please let me know. You can send me a link to your story on your own site, either in the comments or 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 great week!