What if …?

This excellent, amazing question gets me every time I think about it.

In case you ever asked, ‘how does a writer come up with all those great ideas, crazy plot twists, and interesting scenarios’, I’m here to tell you, the answer is simple: it’s the ‘what if’ question.

Well, that’s[image error] my answer at least.

I might begin writing with a basic premise for a story, or a picture that’s inspired me to create a character, but inevitably somewhere along the line the ‘what if’ question pops up as I work out details of story, history, setting, character and more. 

If ever a question could be perfect, it’s this one.

What if the main character fears commitment? What if she will do anything for another piece of apple pie? What if he is a germophobe? What if she’s allergic to his dog, Max?

The ‘what if’ question gives

endless material. It’s strengthened weak scripts and stories, it’s helped me take characters to the next level.

And it certainly applies to real-life scenarios. What if you stopped saying ‘we should do that’ and you actually did it? (went on the trip, took that class, moved to that neighborhood?)

What if, indeed.

Happy reading!