Where can you find writing inspiration? Try your nearest bookstore
Today I was meandering down the aisles of my local bookstore, grabbing random mass market paperbacks that looked interesting (mostly in the sci-fi and mystery sections) and reading the descriptions on the backs. And it occurred to me that this was an excellent way to get inspired for coming up with your own story ideas.
I’m not suggesting copying another author’s idea. Rather, I’m suggesting reading those plot descriptions as a way to get your creative juices flowing. Think about it: All those different plots, characters, setting, scenarios and even basic ideas – it’s almost impossible to read the backs of a few interesting-looking paperbacks and not feel inspired.
I’m also not saying that you are going to walk out of the bookstore with an idea for the next great American novel (but if you do, great!). Instead you’ll get fresh ideas about plots and characters. Little seeds will be planted in your brain that may not yield much fruit now, but could blossom in the future!
Anyone who wants to be a good writer must also read a lot. I truly believe that. Perhaps next to the practice of writing itself, reading might be the next best thing a writer can do to improve his/her craft. And I have come to believe that wondering through a bookstore, gazing at titles, reading descriptions and even seeing the art on the covers represents a microcosm of that idea that ‘every writer must be a reader.’
Remember, nothing in fiction is born in a vacuum. This means that you’ll be hard-pressed to find truly original ideas for your own fiction. For example, 2 people falling in love is hardly unique, and might even be cliched. However, 2 people falling in love while their families are feuding (sound familiar?) is a little more interesting. You can seek out variations on ideas, and connect different ideas to make something unique.
So the next time you’re in a bookstore, take the time to wander the aisles and soak in all that creativity around you. You’ll be surprised at what you find.
Where do you go for inspiration? Bookstore? Your local park? The beach? Tell us where you go and why it is so inspiring in the comment section below. I look forward to reading your answers!
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