Using a Cliche

There are a lot of cliches in writing, but sometimes they can get you inspired to start writing.  Sometimes what we think of as an over-used concept got that way because it's an easy springboard to getting a story started.  If it gets a character or course of action started in your head, then maybe it's worth it.  Once the arc of a story gets started in your head, you can always take the cliche out of it later.  But even if that doesn't work, at least it's a fun writing exercise.

A man or woman lying on his or her deathbed, looks back at a single episode in life.  Who is this person?  Where are they, at home, hospital, nursing home?  What did he do for a living?  Does she have a family?  What is the single episode this person is looking back at, a good memory or a bad?  Is it a decision he made or one not made?  Is it the greatest moment in her life, or is it a regret?  Is he remembering the way it was or coming to a new realization?


Write one up.  If you like it and want to share, send it to me.  If it's really good, and you agree to allow me, I'll post it here to inspire other writers.