Prompt #28 — Write like Bill Hutchison

Hutchison’s piece (view the story here) proceeds both as a how-to handbook and a complex consideration of a ritualized process. It also approaches an emotionally dense topic—death—from a clinical perspective rather than an overwrought one. Here, the characters are not individuals but are acknowledged only by their roles—the bearer, the preparer—which positions them in contrast to the intimacy of their work.

PROMPT

Consider a situation in which characters may be viewed by their type rather than their specific, individual identities. Then compose a story in which the interactions gain weight through the archetypes. There are potential pitfalls here—think about how easy it would be to use stock character types such as a bride and groom. Avoid those in favor of something more unusual. Think of the Fed Ex worker who transports live animals for zoos. Imagine the protocol a hotel housekeeper has to follow if a guest fails to check out properly and leaves belongings in the room. Offer a perspective that expands our understanding of the character type.