I need help creating a story using these words

Question

complacency

reproach

supercilious

languid

propriety

deft

prodigal

haughty

insolent

jaunty

Answer 1

Hi Grace!

This is an excellent selection of words. When I read them together, three characters come to mind:

1) A wealthy and arrogant character. This character can be described with words such as:

1. supercilious
2. propriety
3. prodigal
4. haughty
5. insolent

2) A hard-working character (AKA our protagonist!), who can be connected to words such as:

1. reproach (this character may "reproach" the wealthy character)
2. deft (this may describe their mastery of a certain skill or trade)

3) A friend or side-kick to the protagonist, who may be kind but who lacks the ambition the protagonist has. They can be connected to words such as:

1. complacency (they are happy with their place in life, whereas the protagonist wants to get out of their current situation)
2. languid (they are relaxed and nonchalant)
3. jaunty (they are confident and cheerful!)

So, you have a villain, a protagonist, and a sidekick. Hope this provides some structure and/or generates an idea! Best of Luck!

-Eliana

Answer 2

Hi Grace,

Wow! Those are some great words. Let’s start by defining these words. Are they generally positive or negative words? This will give you a general theme for your story. How do you want these words to characterize the individuals in your story? How will you balance your characters? You want to make that your characters are not all the same.

Now let’s talk about plot. Remember what the difference between plot and story is. Your plot is like the "bare-bones" version of your story. This is when you get to cast vision. What is the big picture? Once you did this, you can fill it in with details. Keep going over your story in small chunks. Make it come alive. Don't just tell me a story, take me there. I want to see where your story takes place and feel the emotions that your characters feeling. Keep adding until you are satisfied. Maybe have someone read it and ask them to give you their initial reaction.

Something to think through, what do you love in a good story? What are some of your favorite aspects of literature? For me, I love when there is redemption in a story. So, I would create a character who would be our villain and maybe he/she learns a lesson from our protagonist (main character.)

Best of luck on your story!

Miss Emily