Fairy Tales and Fables
Writing inspired by classic fairy tales and fables
Fairy tales and fables, whether it’s reading them or having them read to us, are part of many cultures around the world. Sometimes these tales are cautionary, instructional, or moralistic. They may illustrate what happens when someone is too selfish or duplicitous, or the results of putting one’s fortunes in the wrong hands.
This week, I invite you to write about fairy tales and fables—whether that’s writing one of your own or writing an essay or journal entry, or perhaps writing a poem. Select one or more options from the groups below.
Fiction
Take a familiar fairytale and tell it from the perspective of someone or something else in the story. For example, Jack and the Beanstalk as told by the magic beans.
Write a fable that explains something about the animal kingdom. For example, why skunks have a white stripe down their backs or why elephants have long trunks and big ears.
Craft a fairy tale using elements found in many fairy tales. This could include:
hero or heroine with a goal/wish they think is unattainable
magical/mystical objects
wise elders offering advice/support
Nonfiction
What fairy tales or fables were your favorites growing up? What were your least favorite?
Which characters in fairy tales did you find the most reprehensible?
What memories do you associate with having fairy tales or fables read to you as a child?
Poetry
Write a poem from the perspective of a character from a fairy tale or fable you loved as a child.
Write a poem about what comes after “happily ever after” for a fairy tale character(s).
Write a poem in which you counsel a fairy tale character on how to live their best life.
Recommendation: set a timer for 25 minutes and see what comes up. You can write by hand or type it out—whatever writing method works for you.
Have fun writing!
Are you enjoying these weekly writing prompts? If so, please consider making a small, one-time donation to support my work in creating these prompts. Thank you!