Getting Authentic with Tim Crouch, part IV

Although I’m sure I haven’t covered everything in Tim Crouch’s workshop–workshops are like that, full so much information that it’s impossible to grasp it all–this is my last post about it. Until I think of something else, anyway. According to Crouch, one way to get the creativity flowing is to impose restrictions. “Form and restriction can be the most liberating thing,” he says. Here are a couple of his.

Bob from Bogota

• Pick a letter
• Write a name beginning with that letter
• Write a piece of clothing beginning with that letter
• Write a place beginning with that letter

Now, write a monologue about that person, with that clothing, in that place–and make sure every word also starts with your chosen letter.

A-B-C-D

Write a 26 word story. The first word must begin with “a”, the second with “b” &c. all the way to “z”.

Need help getting started? Try this prompt: Apple butter curdles dramatically.

Today’s takeaway: sit down and write. Not sure where to start? Write anyway. Some of the best stories begin in the middle.

Getting Authentic with Tim Crouch, part I – authenticity.

Getting Authentic with Tim Crouch, part II – co-authorship.

Getting Authentic with Tim Crouch, part III – writing outside the box.

Did you try the exercises? Share your efforts below!