“Room Tone”—Prompts Inspired by Dobby Gibson

Another week, another ER trip, another to-do list spiraling into infinity, but there are poems to read and savor. I hope you like this one by Dobby Gibson as much I do.

For the first prompt, write a poem in three stanzas: the first stanza sets the overall time and mood; the second provides a scene in one sentence with a simile; the third stanza moves to a third location (perhaps a dilapidated barn, an abandoned mall, or a closed library).

The second prompt is to take this poem and Mad Lib it: changing all the nouns and verbs with your own. Is there a line you like best? If so, write a poem or short story with that as the jumping off point, remembering to erase the line after you’ve finished the draft.

For the third, write a story or poem using the second or third stanza for the setting. Remember to credit the poet for your inspiration.

The next prompt is to use the title “Room Tone“ and freewrite for three minutes on whatever associations the phrase creates for you. If possible, see if anything you‘ve written sparks you into a draft.

Bonus prompt: write a story or poem based on this photo taken in Utah.

Good luck! Have fun!