
Have you ever had to give someone bad news? Even worse, maybe you had to give it to a whole group at once. I had to do that recently, and it wasn’t fun. There is a whole range of emotions people go through when getting bad news, from shock to anger, to grief, depending on the severity of the news and the rest of the context (anything from “we’re currently out of fries” to “it’s cancer”).
Story Prompt: March 2, 2026
Write a story about giving someone bad news
This can be a heavy one so remember that this prompt does not have to be serious. It can be silly or absurd if the stakes are very low. Like all prompts, there is no requirement about the subject or tone; that is up to you and your imagination.
If you write a story for 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. Remember to set your clock ahead next Sunday, if you live somewhere that still has to do that.

I know what inspired this prompt. Yes, being the bearer of bad news is not anyone’s best moment. I remember, though they were divorced, having to go tell my mother my father died. She burst into tears, even though she threw him out like worn out shoes. I recall just standing there helplessly. Luckily I had a friend with me.
The graphic is great…her eyes say it all.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yeah, this was an attempt at how we writers process our real life through writing. And yeah, I loved that picture, very haunting expression.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Great piece. I still think they should all go into a collection.
LikeLiked by 1 person
They still might sometime. I’ve got about 450 FF stories so far. That’s 45000 words.
LikeLiked by 1 person
it’s definitely your metier. 🙂
LikeLike
Great story, Nancy! Thanks for participating. 🙂
LikeLike
Here’s mine, David:
https://theelephantstrunk.org/2026/03/07/the-jury/
LikeLiked by 1 person