For this exercise, you will need music, preferably instrumental music (check out classical pieces, big band, or Phillip Glass for a few suggestions). You will be writing a scene that takes place at character D’s place, creating a setting inspired by the music you hear. It can be any place your imagination takes you!
- Choose your track and have it ready. It’s best not to be familiar with it beforehand!
- Play the music—just listen for a moment, letting your mind wander.
- What do you see?
- Describe the physical aspects of the place along with the mood and feel.
- Begin to write a description of the setting, including as many details as possible.
- Once you get the description down, introduce Character D.
- D can be anything you imagine—male or female, human or non-human.
- D may enter the space or be already in it.
- Describe what actions D is performing without actually speaking.
- Stop the music and re-read the scene you have just started.
- Does it compel you to keep going?
- If so, introduce a second character and see what happens!
- If not, select a different piece of music and repeat the exercise!
- Does it compel you to keep going?
