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Writer’s Club Prompt: Change That Looks Small But Feels Big

Everything feels different to me in September. I think this is partially because my birthday falls on the 26th, and despite my best efforts, this causes my emotions, generally speaking, to throb like an infected tooth. But it also has to be because everything and everyone always seems to be changing during this time—starting new things and tamping down their chaotic summer energy. My body has memorized the sensation of September, so once the air shifts, I am suddenly on high alert, anticipating the opposite of sameness. 

This month, we’re exploring the idea of a fall reset in every corner of life, during a time that feels particularly ripe for rethinking… oh, you know, everything. So! For this month’s writers prompt, we want to hear about a small shift you’ve made in your life—something even imperceptible to others—that had an outsize impact. It could be something you intentionally did differently, or it could be something different that happened to you and you accepted and adapted gamely. Please tell us about it in 600 words or fewer, and submit to [email protected] by 9/16 at 9:30am EST.

If you’ve never submitted before, maybe now’s the time to switch things up?


As a reminder: The writers club has changed a bit, and now includes a workshop during which finalists have an opportunity to read and share feedback with each other. We aim to keep all writers updated on the status of submissions, but also ask for your patience with us as our small team works to get this program flowing like ink from a lustrous feather pen.

Graphics by Lorenza Centi.

Mallory Rice

Mallory Rice is a writer who sometimes has bangs and sometimes does not. She was previously the executive editor of this fine website.

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