Muse on Monday – November 3, 2025

Original Photo by Egor Litvinov on Unsplash

People act in different ways on a bus or train or other means of public transportation. Most people are on their phones or reading, or sleeping but sometimes people can strike up conversations with the person next to them. This can go a lot of ways. One thing about public transportation is that the people there are semi-captive. Sure, you can move to another seat maybe but you can’t just leave whenever you want, at least not if you want to get to where you’re going on time. This can bring an extra layer of tension into things.

Story Prompt: November 3, 2025

Write a story about two strangers on a bus or train.

Of course, like any prompt, the tone and conflict are totally up to you. This can be a sweet or silly or creepy story or anything else. Feel free to come up with some exotic means of public transportation. It’s all up to you.

If you write a story with this prompt, 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 and enjoy the fall.

2 Comments Add yours

  1. I’ve had interesting encounters on trains as you know. I think the key is to be open to what’s around you. There’s always a wealth of material to draw upon. I always love your themes. And the backs of the two women in the bus are so perfect. 🙂

    Liked by 1 person

    1. I’ve had some interesting conversations as well. It’s an interesting place where you both a captive audience.

      Liked by 1 person

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