creative writing prompts about autumn

65 Fall Writing Prompts: Inspire Your Creativity with Cozy Ideas

By: Author Paul Jenkins

Posted on April 9, 2023

Categories Writing , Inspiration

As the leaves change colors and the air turns crisp, it’s the perfect time to inspire creativity through writing. Fall brings many themes and opportunities for writers to explore new ideas and embark on unique adventures. This article presents 65 fall writing prompts designed to spark the imagination and ignite the creative fire within.

From exploring the beauty of nature to delving into the spookiness of Halloween, these writing prompts cover a wide range of topics suitable for writers of all ages and skill levels. By tapping into the magic of the season, these prompts aim to provide a springboard for seasoned writers and beginners alike, helping them create engaging and memorable stories.

Whether using these prompts for a personal journal, a classroom assignment, or even as part of a writing group, they provide an excellent starting point for crafting captivating narratives, honing one’s writing skills, and embracing the enchanting spirit of the fall season.

A Crisp Autumn Day

Fall offers a brilliant canvas of colors, cool breezes, and a sense of rejuvenation, perfect for sparking creative writing ideas. Authors can use the season’s beauty to inspire their writing as the leaves change and the days grow shorter. Here are a few prompts centered on a crisp autumn day:

• Describe: Ask the writer to describe the sights, sounds, and smells they associate with a crisp autumn day. This exercise can help writers explore their sensory perceptions and create vivid imagery.
• Character Walk: Have the writer create a character and take them on a walk through a park or forest during fall. Encourage them to detail their character’s reactions to the environment, the crunch of leaves underfoot, and encounters with other people or animals.
• Dialogue: Present the writer with two or more characters conversing on a crisp autumn day. It could be friends discussing their favorite fall traditions or strangers sharing their thoughts about the season. The goal is to practice writing engaging and authentic dialogue.
• Seasonal Shift: Invite the writer to explore the idea of change by composing a piece about a character experiencing a significant life event during autumn. This could be a physical or emotional transformation, highlighting the theme of change that the season embodies.
• Poetic Inspiration: Encourage the writer to craft a poem centered around a crisp autumn day, using the season’s inherent beauty and wonder to fuel their creativity.

By utilizing these writing prompts centered on a crisp autumn day, writers can further develop their descriptive, narrative, and observational skills, all while savoring the season’s beauty.

Nature’s Awe

Experiencing the beauty of fall depends mainly on the wonders manifested through nature. In this section, we explore various awe-inspiring aspects that this season has to offer.

The Last Leaf on the Tree

As autumn progresses, one can’t help but notice the last stubborn leaves clinging to the trees. Despite their isolation, the resilience of these leaves can serve as an inspiration and a writing prompt for exploring themes of perseverance and loneliness.

The First Time Experiencing Fall Colors

There’s something truly magical about witnessing the vibrant colors of fall foliage for the first time. The burst of oranges, reds, and yellows can evoke a sense of wonder and curiosity, making it a perfect subject for reflection and creative writing.

The Sounds of Leaves Crunching Underfoot

As they walk through a carpet of fallen leaves, the sound of leaves crunching underfoot provides an unmistakable auditory signature of the season. This sensory experience can be a noteworthy starting point for crafting descriptions of the fall atmosphere and exploring themes of change and decay.

The Unique Colors of Trees Lining The Street

Tree-lined streets showcase the celebration of colors during the autumn months. Each tree boasts its distinctive hues, creating a palette of undertones and pigments that are nothing short of awe-inspiring. Writers can draw inspiration from these unique and diverse shades to create vivid imagery in their stories.

The First Frost Painting the Ground

The onset of the first frost marks a pivotal transition from fall to winter. The delicate traces of frost on the ground and leaves contrast the warm tones that cluster around them. Writers can use this duality to explore deeper life, death, and transformation themes.

Autumn Foliage

The changing colors of the leaves make for a stunning visual experience, and the spectrum of shades represents the beautiful diversity of the season. Experimenting with these colors in writing through descriptive language or metaphor can enrich storytelling and evoke emotions in the reader.

Migration of Birds Heading South

The sight of vast flocks of birds migrating to warmer destinations can be both mesmerizing and bittersweet. This natural phenomenon symbolizes the ephemerality of the season and the inevitability of change. As a writing prompt, it enables authors to explore departure, adaptation, and interconnectedness themes.

Mysterious Moments

Fall is a season of change, transformation, and mystery. As the days grow shorter and the leaves change color, the atmosphere seems to shift, inviting eerie and unexplained occurrences. Writers can find inspiration in the shadows of autumn by exploring Mysterious Moments. This section offers four subtopics to ignite the creative spark.

A Mysterious Letter Found in A Pile of Leaves

Imagine a character stumbling upon a mysterious letter hidden within a pile of colorful fall leaves. The letter’s contents could reveal a long-lost secret, a treasure map, or an unexpected confession. This prompt invites writers to explore the implications of such a discovery and their character’s reaction to it. The letter could be addressed to the protagonist, or it could be an accidental finding that unlocks a new mystery.

A Secret Hidden Beneath the Fallen Leaves

What if something significant is concealed beneath the scattered leaves of autumn? Exploring this theme, writers can develop a compelling story about secret objects, hidden passageways, or buried evidence. How do the characters uncover the secret, and what consequences follow? Use the autumn setting to create a suspenseful atmosphere and an intriguing plot.

An Abandoned Cabin Discovered in The Woods

The image of an isolated, abandoned cabin nestled in the woods captures a sense of mystery and untold stories. Writers can use this setting to develop a narrative of intrigue or horror. Perhaps the cabin conceals incriminating evidence or once belonged to a notorious hermit with a sinister past. The characters may be drawn to the cabin by curiosity or necessity, only to find themselves entangled in its haunting history.

An Eerie Legend about The Harvest Moon

The Harvest Moon, with its large, glowing presence, has long been a source of myth and superstition. Writers can explore the autumn moon’s lore, creating eerie legends and tales of supernatural encounters. Characters might find themselves facing prophetic visions, encounters with mythical creatures, or harrowing experiences under the spell of the moonlight. Use the hypnotic allure of the Harvest Moon to create a memorable and chilling narrative.

Cozy Experiences

Fall is a magical time when the warmth of cozy experiences fills our days. Here are some writing prompts inspired by the cozy moments autumn brings.

A Cozy Evening by The Fire

Imagine sitting by a crackling fireplace, the fire’s glow reflecting on loved ones’ faces. Write about the conversations shared, the aroma of hot cider filling the air and the feeling of contentment that envelops you.

The Warmth of A Favorite Fall Sweater

Picture pulling out your favorite fall sweater from the back of your closet. Describe how its warmth hugs you like a familiar embrace, and share the associated memories. How has the sweater changed over the years, and what moments in your life does it represent?

A Rainy Autumn Day Spent Indoors

Envision waking up to the gentle sound of raindrops tapping against your window. Describe the comfort of staying indoors, tucked under a warm blanket with a hot beverage. Write about the activities you enjoy on a rainy autumn day, whether watching movies, crafting, or simply relaxing and listening to the rain.

A Cozy Bookstore with A Fall Reading Nook

Picture walking into a cozy bookstore, the scent of old books mingling with the hint of pumpkin spice. Write about discovering a hidden reading nook, its warm and inviting atmosphere drawing you in. Describe the feeling of being surrounded by books and the sense of adventure in choosing your next read on a crisp autumn day.

Delectable Scents and Tastes

The scent of cinnamon and apples filling the air.

In the fall, the aroma of cinnamon and apples swirls through kitchens, evoking feelings of warmth and comfort. As families gather to prepare seasonal dishes, these fragrant ingredients make their way into many recipes.

The Taste of A Perfectly Baked Pumpkin Pie

One of the quintessential fall treats is the pumpkin pie. Combining a flaky crust, creamy filling, and gentle spices creates a sensory experience that embodies the season’s essence.

Memories Evoked by A Warm Mug of Apple Cider

A steaming mug of apple cider not only offers warmth during crisp autumn days and invokes memories of falling leaves, cozy sweaters, and family gatherings. The sweet and tangy flavors underscore many cherished fall moments.

A Favorite Fall Recipe Passed Down Through Generations

Many families treasure a favorite fall recipe passed down through generations, whether a hearty soup, a spiced cake, or a unique twist on classic dishes. These recipes not only delight palates but also strengthen family bonds.

The Quest for The Perfect Pumpkin Spice Latte

Fall sees the return of the beloved pumpkin spice latte. Fans eagerly anticipate the arrival of this seasonal beverage, searching for the perfect balance of rich espresso, warm spices, and creamy pumpkin flavors in their quest for the ultimate autumn indulgence.

Family Traditions and Memories

A heartwarming thanksgiving memory.

It was a Thanksgiving to remember when the entire family gathered at Grandma’s house. The air was filled with the aroma of freshly baked pumpkin pies, and the playful laughter of the little ones echoed throughout the home.

As the family sat around the dining table, they shared their cherished memories from previous years. Stories of love, togetherness, and resilience brought warmth to the hearts of everyone present.

A Day in the Life of A Scarecrow

In a quiet field, surrounded by pumpkin patches and golden corn stalks, a scarecrow diligently protected the crops from pesky intruders. It watched as the sun rose and set, even during the nights when the wind blew cold.

Even though it remained stationary, the scarecrow was a silent witness to the annual harvest, countless conversations of passing farmers, and the changing colors of the leaves on nearby trees.

A Family’s Annual Apple Picking Tradition

As the leaves began to change color every year, the family eagerly awaited their annual apple-picking outing. They would trek to their favorite orchard with baskets, ready to pick the ripest, juiciest apples.

• Apples are picked for homemade pies.
• Apples are eaten right from the tree.
• Apples to share with friends and neighbors.

It was a day full of laughter, bonding, and appreciation for the gifts of nature.

A Treasured Fall Memory from Childhood

Tommy could never forget the one fall day he spent playing in a giant pile of leaves with his childhood friends. He held onto this cherished memory forever, from tossing them into the air and the joyful squeals as they blanketed the children to the sense of accomplishment after raking the entire yard.

The Long-Awaited Return of A Beloved Autumn Tradition

The town folk reveled in the yearly return of their beloved fall festival. Children would delight in hayrides and pumpkin carvings each year, while adults would indulge in hot apple cider and homemade pumpkin pie.

It was a time of celebration, unity, and gratitude for the bounty of the harvest season.

A Nostalgic Visit to Your Childhood Home during Autumn

As they returned to their childhood home, the memories of autumn’s past came flooding back; the crunch of fallen leaves underfoot and the crisp fall air carrying the scent of burning wood from a nearby chimney.

The family drove along the familiar streets, admiring the vibrant red, orange, and gold hues adorning the trees. It was a journey back in time, providing comfort and reminiscence on the season’s beauty.

Spooky Tales and Legends

As the leaves change colors and the air turns crisp, it’s the perfect time to dive into chilling stories and eerie legends.

The Chilling Story of A Haunted Hayride

During an evening in autumn, a group of friends embarks on a supposedly simple hayride, unaware of the terror that awaits. As they travel through the dark, twisted woods, they encounter spine-tingling sights and supernatural phenomena, testing their courage and causing them to question their reality.

The Origin of A Spooky Halloween Legend

Unveiling the origin of a chilling Halloween legend, the mysterious tale told by a grandmother becomes a haunting exploration of a small town’s dark past. As the story unfolds, riveting details emerge, providing insight into the eerie events that shaped the town’s unique customs and traditions.

The Creatures That Come Out When the Nights Grow Longer

Longer nights invite shadowy creatures to the surface, causing terror and wonder among the town’s inhabitants. These entities turn daily life into a nightmare, from sinister whispers in the woods to mysterious sightings. Intriguing encounters lead to suspenseful tales that leave a lasting impact on all who hear them.

A Paranormal Investigation of A Haunted House

A paranormal research team embarks on a thrilling adventure, investigating a seemingly haunted house on the outskirts of town. They reveal hidden secrets lurking within the walls using state-of-the-art equipment and trusted intuition, providing chilling evidence of the supernatural.

A Ghost Story Told Around A Crackling Campfire

As flames dance and flicker at night, friends gather around a glowing campfire, each sharing their most terrifying ghost stories. The shadows seem to come alive as each spine-chilling tale unravels, echoing into the darkness and sending shivers down their spines.

An Unforgettable Experience at A Haunted House Attraction

Manmade thrills bring a group of friends to a famous haunted house attraction, curious to discover the carefully crafted scares lurking within. Navigating through dimly lit corridors and hidden passageways, they confront their deepest fears, creating a memorable and frightening experience they won’t soon forget.

A Spooky Experience during A Moonlit Hayride

Navigating under the watchful gaze of the moon, a family embarks on a magical hayride through a moonlit pumpkin patch. Amid the full moon’s glow, eerie events unfold, casting an eerie ambiance that transforms the tranquil setting into a chilling experience.

A Creature That Only Emerges during The Harvest Season

Descending upon the town only during the bountiful harvest season, a mythical creature torments the community with its enigmatic presence. As the townsfolk scramble to decipher the beast’s motives and origin, they realize they are at the mercy of an ancient power that has been awakened.

Adventures and Challenges

The beauty of fall offers endless possibilities for writing prompts related to adventures and challenges. This section will explore twelve unique sub-sections, each with its tale to tell.

A Fall Festival Gone Wrong

As the town excitedly prepared for its annual fall festival, unexpected obstacles caused the event to worsen. With teamwork and determination, the community worked together to overcome these challenges and create a memorable fall festival for all.

A Magical Transformation Caused by The Autumn Equinox

The arrival of the autumn equinox brought an unexpected magical transformation that altered the lives of those who witnessed it. As the season changed, so did the destinies of those who experienced the extraordinary power of fall magic.

A Stranger That Arrives in Town with The First Gust of Fall Wind

A mysterious stranger arrived on the first gust of fall wind, bringing secrets and intrigue to a small town. This enigmatic figure not only changed the lives of the town’s residents but also uncovered hidden truths long buried beneath the autumn leaves.

A Touching Story of A Fallen Leaf’s Journey

A single fallen leaf embarks on a remarkable journey across the forest floor, influenced by the gentle winds and creatures it encounters. Along the way, the leaf discovers the interconnectedness of nature and the importance of change and growth.

A Lost Child Found in A Corn Maze

A celebration at a corn maze unexpectedly turns into a search and rescue mission when a child is found missing. As time passes, the community must unite and navigate the labyrinth to save the lost child and bring them home safely.

An Unexpected Encounter during A Hike through The Fall Foliage

A hike through the vibrant, changing foliage leads to an unexpected encounter with a peculiar individual. This stranger’s tale, forever intertwined with the beauty and mystery of the fall season, serves as an important lesson for those who cross their path.

A Forest with Trees That Never Lose Their Leaves

Deep within an ancient forest lies a grove of trees that never shed their leaves, maintaining their vibrant hues throughout the year. The secret behind this everlasting autumn is revealed when a group of curious explorers stumbles upon this enchanted place.

The History of A Town’s Annual Harvest Festival

The rich history of a town’s annual harvest festival is brought to life through tales of its origins and traditions. This narrative pays homage to the generations that have cultivated and maintained this beloved event, honoring their dedication to the celebration of the fall season.

A Fall Thunderstorm That Brings An Unexpected Twist

A sudden thunderstorm brings an unexpected twist, transforming a sleepy town into a setting for adventure and self-discovery. As the storm rages, residents come together to face the challenges ahead, finding strength and camaraderie as they weather the storm together.

A Camping Trip Surrounded by The Vibrant Colors of Autumn

A seemingly idyllic camping trip, surrounded by the vibrant colors of autumn, is filled with unexpected challenges and unforeseen obstacles. The campers must use their wit and resourcefulness to overcome these hurdles, learning valuable lessons about themselves and the beauty of nature.

A Time When An Unexpected Challenge Threatened the Harvest

A community fights to save their beloved harvest as an unforeseen challenge threatens to devastate their annual celebration. Through perseverance and the determination to protect their way of life, they rally together and overcome adversity in the true spirit of the fall harvest.

A Fall Storm That Leads to An Unexpected Adventure

A mighty fall storm brings about an unexpected adventure for an unlikely group of friends as they face the ferocity of nature. As winds howl and leaves dance through the air, their courage and resiliency are tested, unveiling their true character amid the storm.

Inspirational Moments

The beauty of a foggy morning in the woods.

She awoke to a dense fog surrounding her cabin in the woods. As she stepped outside, she marveled at how the fog softened the fall colors, creating an ethereal landscape. The misty morning brought a sense of peace and serenity that inspired her.

A Moment That Changed Everything During A Football Game

During a crucial high school football game, the lead player felt an unshakable determination to secure victory. In the final moments, his team was down by a few points. Against all odds, he executed a brilliant play that won the game, forever changing his teammates’ perspectives on what they could achieve.

A Reflection on The Changing Seasons of Life

As he walked through the park, the man couldn’t help but notice the vibrant fall leaves surrounding him. They reminded him of the changing seasons of life and how each stage, like the leaves, brought its unique beauty and challenges.

A Bittersweet Goodbye to Summer

As the summer sun set for the last time, she couldn’t help but feel a mixture of emotions. The bittersweet goodbye to warm days and outdoor adventures was juxtaposed with the excitement of cozy autumn evenings.

The Love Story of Two Pumpkins in A Pumpkin Patch

Among the rows of a pumpkin patch, two pumpkins found themselves growing side by side. As they grew, so did their love for one another. Their unique love story captivated those who stumbled upon the pair, entwined amongst the vines.

A Friendly Rivalry Between Two High School Football Teams

Year after year, two high school football teams met on the field to compete in a friendly rivalry. Though the competition was fierce, it fostered camaraderie, respect, and a shared love for the game that spanned generations.

A Forbidden Romance Blossoming Beneath The Harvest Moon

Under the glow of the harvest moon, two young lovers from feuding families met in secret. Fueled by the intensity of their passion and the risk of discovery, their forbidden romance blossomed amidst the autumn chill.

An Unplanned Road Trip to See the Fall Colors

On a whim, three friends embarked on an unplanned road trip to witness the glory of the autumn foliage. Along the way, they encountered breathtaking views, shared laughter, and made memories that would last a lifetime.

🎉 Our next novel writing master class starts in – ! Claim your spot →

BEST FALL WRITING PROMPTS

Join (probably?) the world's largest writing contest. Flex those creative muscles with weekly writing prompts.

Showing 21 prompts reset

Lost and found books with booktrib.

• Write a story about a lost scarf.

Write a story in which a pumpkin spice latte plays a crucial role.

• Set your story in an orchard.
• Start your story with a character taking a sip of hot apple cider.

Write a story about a character who is deeply affected by the changing of the seasons.

Introducing Prompted , a new magazine written by you!

🏆 Featuring 12 prize-winning stories from our community. Download it now for FREE .

Start your story with a leaf falling.

• Write a story about a farmer bringing in their harvest.

In this world, the leaves on trees change color every fall based on the changing mood of the people. This year, the leaves all turn black.

Using only text messages, write a story about the start of the school., write a story that ends with the sentence: "and that was the first and last time that i tried to bake a pumpkin pie.", subscribe to our prompts newsletter.

Never miss a prompt! Get curated writing inspiration delivered to your inbox each week.

Write a story that begins with the sentence: "I hate fall, but I love autumn."

Set your story at a farmer's market that is struggling to remain relevant this autumn..

• Write a story about someone seeing leaves change color for the first time.

Write a story from the perspective of a pumpkin patch owner on the first and last day of autumn.

• Pick one of the five senses. Write about fall using that sense.

Set your story during a sudden change of season.

• Your character picks up a fallen leaf and can’t believe what they discover underneath it. What happens next?

Write about a character driving in the rain.

Write about two characters going apple picking., set your story in a coffee shop that’s just introduced a new line of autumnal drinks., win $250 in our short story competition 🏆.

We'll send you 5 prompts each week. Respond with your short story and you could win $250!

Contest #251 LIVE

Enter our weekly contest.

This week's theme: Lost and Found Books with BookTrib

Prize money

Contest entries, closes at 23:59 - may 24, 2024 est, recent contests ✍️.

#250 – All Ears

#249 – Action Stations with Tom Bromley

#248 – From the Top

#247 – The Great Unknown

Recent winners 🏆

Dena Linn – read

Honey Homecroft – read

Madeline McCourt – read

Sarah Coury – read

Leaderboard 🥇

#1 Zilla Babbitt

32373 points

#2 Deidra Whitt Lovegren

28731 points

#3 Abigail Airuedomwinya

22421 points

#4 Graham Kinross

14535 points

#5 Scout Tahoe

13198 points

#6 Chris Campbell

11323 points

#7 Thom With An H

10623 points

#8 Rayhan Hidayat

10213 points

#9 Michał Przywara

9939 points

#10 Deborah Mercer

9610 points

The best fall writing prompts

Fall (or autumn, as our British friends refer to it) is a season of change. The leaves are falling, there's a bite in the air, and memories are being made, from pumpkin carving to apple picking to returning to school for a new year. If you're looking for inspiration for your fall writing, you're in the right place. Our fall writing prompts are suitable for students, kids, and the whole family.

To help you get started, here are our top ten fall writing prompts:

• Write a story that ends with the sentence: "And that was the first and last time that I tried to bake a pumpkin pie."
• Using only text messages, write a story about the start of the school. 
• Write a story from the perspective of a pumpkin patch owner on the first and last day of autumn. 

For more help writing your fall short story, check out this free resource:

• How to Master the 'Show, Don't Tell' Rule (free course )  — Summer is a season of the senses — the smell of pumpkin spice, the taste of turkey, the crunch of frost on fallen leaves. And that means you're going to want to get your descriptions spot on. To brush up your skills, try out our free course.

Want more help learning how to write a dramatic short story? Check out How to Write a Short Story That Gets Published  — a free, ten day course guiding you through the process of short story writing by Laura Mae Isaacman, a full-time editor who runs a book editing company in Brooklyn.

Ready to start writing? Check out Reedsy’s weekly short story contest , for the chance of winning $250! You can also check out our list of writing contests  or our directory of literary magazines  for more opportunities to submit your story.

NEW VIDEO COURSE 🎉

How to Write a Novel

Join Tom Bromley for a writing master class and finish your first draft in 3 months . Learn more →

Explore more writing prompt ideas:

Adults Writing Prompts ⭢

Adventure Writing Prompts ⭢

Angst Writing Prompts ⭢

Character Writing Prompts ⭢

Christmas Writing Prompts ⭢

Dark Writing Prompts ⭢

Dialogue Writing Prompts ⭢

Dramatic Writing Prompts ⭢

Dystopian Writing Prompts ⭢

Fall Writing Prompts ⭢

Fantasy Writing Prompts ⭢

Fiction Writing Prompts ⭢

Fluff Writing Prompts ⭢

Funny Writing Prompts ⭢

Halloween Writing Prompts ⭢

High School Writing Prompts ⭢

Historical Fiction Writing Prompts ⭢

Holiday Writing Prompts ⭢

Horror Writing Prompts ⭢

Kids Writing Prompts ⭢

Middle School Writing Prompts ⭢

Mystery Writing Prompts ⭢

Narrative Writing Prompts ⭢

Nonfiction Writing Prompts ⭢

Novel Writing Prompts ⭢

Poetry Writing Prompts ⭢

Romance Writing Prompts ⭢

Sad Writing Prompts ⭢

Science Fiction Writing Prompts ⭢

Short Story Writing Prompts ⭢

Spring Writing Prompts ⭢

Summer Writing Prompts ⭢

Teens Writing Prompts ⭢

Thanksgiving Writing Prompts ⭢

Thriller and Suspense Writing Prompts ⭢

Valentine's Day Writing Prompts ⭢

Vampire Writing Prompts ⭢

Winter Writing Prompts ⭢

Oops, you need an account for that!

Log in with your social account:

Or enter your email:

• Writing Prompts

62+ Fall Writing Prompts (+ Free Printable Fall Writing Paper)

The fall season is on its way. The air is crisp, the leaves are falling, and there’s a new season on its way. Whether you’re writing a novel, a short story , or some poetry , here are over 62 fall writing prompts to inspire you over the next few months.

Our huge list of autumn prompts includes fall-themed writing prompts, journal prompts, narrative prompts and even creative story ideas for the fall season. We also included a pack of free fall writing papers with lines to encourage you to keep writing all season long!

Journal Prompts

Narrative prompts, poetry prompts, kindergarten fall ideas, other creative writing ideas, free fall writing paper with lines.

Get a quick fall writing idea by using our generator below:

Watch our video on the best fall writing prompts:

62+ Fall Writing Prompts

We’ve put together a list of prompts for the Fall season. If you are a writer, or even if you’re just a reader, We’re sure you can use a few of these to spark your creativity:

Here are some interesting autumn journal prompts to write about:

• What kind of pumpkin are you going to carve this year?  Draw some pictures, along with a description of some pumpkin carving ideas.
• Make a top ten list of your favourite activities over the fall season. For each activity write down a sentence to explain why this activity is your favourite.
• Write a journal entry about an early autumn evening. You could write about an autumn sunset that was particularly dramatic or a fall sunset that was beautiful.
• Write about something surprising you experienced during the fall season.
• Write a journal entry from the perspective of a tree during autumn.
• Watch the autumn leaves falling. What does the falling of the leaves mean to you? Is it time to change?
• Make an autumn forecast. Make a prediction about what you think will be happening in autumn this year. This could be a weather prediction or prediction of a possible news headline.
• Write about a dream you had about fall. You could be dreaming about the sounds of leaves falling in a park or you could be dreaming about fall in a forest.
• Write about someone you know who is changing. It could be something as simple as a haircut or more complex like a personality change.
• Write about a day in autumn. This could be a particular day you spent with your family, a day you had in your neighbourhood or it could be your very first autumn experience.
• What colours remind you of the fall season? Explain why for each colour.
• Make a list of five things you love about autumn. Then make another list of five things you hate about autumn.
• Write about your favourite autumn memory. It could be the first time you encountered a new place, or about playing in the leaves with your friends.
• Write a journal entry about an autumn friendship you had when you were younger.
• Imagine a world where trees didn’t exist. How would you know it was autumn?
• Write about a fall tradition you enjoy and a new one that you would like to try out.
• Write about autumn as a welcoming time. Think about how autumn could welcome someone new or make someone feel comfortable in a new place.
• Make a list of five places you’d like to visit in the fall.
• Write about something that inspires you to see more of the fall season. This could be a new city, a new culture, a new place or something you’ve always wanted to experience.
• Write a journal entry about your favourite festival, event or holiday during the autumn season. Think about when this event happens and what you do during the event.
• Pick any one of the following autumn animals, and write down five fun facts about them: Hedgehog, Barn Owl, Red Squirrel, Red Fox, Red Deer or Grey Wolf.
• Make a list of five different items that fall brings to mind. What do these items remind you of? How do they make you feel?
• Imagine that you’re in the backyard and you see leaves falling from a maple tree. What does the sound of the falling leaves mean to you? How do you feel as you listen to the sound of falling leaves?
• In autumn, people are more likely to be in the great outdoors than in their homes. Write about one of your great outdoor autumn experiences.
• One of the biggest holidays during Autumn is Halloween . Do you celebrate Halloween? If yes, write down how you celebrate it. And if no, then what are your reasons for not celebrating?
• Write about a time when you and your family ate together for thanksgiving. Describe what you were thankful for that year and what you liked about that experience.
• Write a journal entry about something you are really looking forward to seeing in the fall season.
• Make a list of five fall foods. What foods do you like to eat during autumn? What foods do you think are in season during autumn?
• Make a top ten list of your favourite fall animals. For each animal write down one sentence about why they are your favourite.
• Write down a recipe that includes pumpkin as the main ingredient.

Take a look at this list of fall narrative writing prompts to get you inspired:

• Write a short story titled “The October Pumpkin Patch” about a fall trip to a pumpkin patch. It could be your first time there or if you’ve been many times. It can take place on a sunny or rainy day and it can be all about a character’s perspective.
• Write a story titled “Deep in the Heart of Fall”. You can focus on the depths of the forest in the fall. Imagine walking through this deep autumn forest.
• Use the following story starter to write a short story: But what of the scent that pervades the fall. A parking lot? Scented, perhaps, with cinnamon, and coffee.
• Use the following story starter to write a short story: I have seen so many beautiful autumns, and all of these inspired me to write this tale.
• Write a short story titled “Pumpkin Soup”. The story opens with someone ordering pumpkin soup at a restaurant.
• Write a story titled “Where is the Fall?”. It could be a detective story set in the autumn season.
• Write a short story in which a character goes on a journey to find a new autumn tradition that will bring meaning to their life.
• Use this story starter to write a short story: A rainy night in autumn has me playing with lights.
• Write a short story titled “The first Pumpkin”. In this story, you can write about the first time a pumpkin was carved. Why do you think people carve pumpkins for Halloween?
• Use this story starter to write a short story: Over the years, I have come to treasure every autumn, and it never fails to bring me joy.
• Use the following story starter to write a short story: In autumn, I can escape the hustle and bustle of my summer routine and let my hair down.
• Use the following story starter to write a short story: A beautiful autumn morning called to me and I climbed into my car and drove through the city streets.
• Write a short story titled “A Good Night”. In this story, you can write about a night of going to the lake for a rowboat ride, or you can write about a night in the forest with a bonfire.
• Use this story starter to write a short story: One afternoon in autumn, I was walking home after school. It was almost dark. I was near the house when I smelled something wonderful. I turned around and saw a tree with apples and some cherry trees, my favourite autumn fruit.
• Use the following story starter to write a short story: Today, my mother and I are looking forward to being in the same city for the first time in two years. We plan to attend a local fall festival.
• Use this story starter to write a short story: This fall, my favourite holiday is Halloween. I love it because it gives me the chance to dress up, and be anyone I want.
• Use this story starter to write a short story: The weather has turned chilly and I’ve made a pot of cocoa. As I listen to the changing of the leaves outside, I enjoy the silence. My mind goes back to the fall days that have gone by so fast.
• During fall many animals prepare for Winter. Birds such as the Swallows will migrate south towards southern Africa during autumn to find warmer temperatures. Write a day in a life story of a Swallow preparing with its family to fly south for the winter.

Some poem ideas about the fall season:

• Write a poem titled “A Bountiful Harvest”. This poem could be about a farmer and all the different crops they harvest during the fall season.
• Write a haiku about the leaves falling. You could write a haiku about the first frost and the cool air.
• In autumn, the colours of the season turn and the leaves begin to change. Write a poem about autumn colours.
• Write a song, titled ‘Autumn Days’. In the song lyrics, you could talk about the various celebrations that happen during Autumn and what you love most about it.
• Describe the perfect autumn scene in great detail. Think about the physical appearance, the smell, and common autumn tastes and flavours, as well as what you might hear and feel.
• Write a poem titled ‘Ode to Autumn’. In this poem, you can talk about all the things you love about autumn.

Here are some fun fall writing prompts for kindergarten students:

• Continue the following sentence in at least three different ways: I love fall because…
• My favourite fall animal is ________ because __________ .
• My favourite fall colour is _____________ .
• Draw a picture of a tree in the autumn. And then write one sentence to describe this tree.
• My favourite fall vegetable is ____________ . I like how it tastes ____________ .
• During fall I like to go outside and _____________ .
• In Fall, I can see _____________ .
• My favourite Fall activity is ______. 

Here we included some more fall creative writing prompts that you might enjoy:

• Give yourself a new job as an Autumn newscaster. In your next news article, write about the change in weather patterns during autumn.
• Write a news article about how one particular insect of your own choice prepares for winter during the fall season.
• Write a letter to a friend that hates the fall season. In this letter, write about some things that make fall a great season, and encourage this person to try out some fun fall activities.
• Write a letter to the creator of autumn, describing a time when autumn became your favourite season. Write about why autumn is your favourite season and what you look forward to in the fall season.
• How would you describe the season of autumn to someone who has never experienced fall? Imagine an alien from Outerspace comes to you and asks’ What is fall and why does it happen?”
• If Autumn was a person, what kind of person would they be? Write down a detailed description of this person. Think about their interests, physical appearance and personality traits.
• If autumn was a person, what questions would you ask it? Write down at least five questions you could ask the fall season. And then try to think of possible responses to each question from the perspective of Autumn, the person. 
• Write a newspaper article, titled ‘Dressing Up as Autumn’. In this article, you can give advice on what the best colours are to wear during the fall season, as well as type of clothing.

To help encourage you to write during the autumn season, we have created this fun Autumn writing pack. This free PDF pack contains a set of fall-themed writing papers with lines to practice your writing:

Using this writing paper to practice some of the fall writing prompts outlined in this post! 

How did you like the list of over 62 fall writing prompts for kids and adults? Comment below with more prompts, as we want to know what your favourites are. 

Marty the wizard is the master of Imagine Forest. When he's not reading a ton of books or writing some of his own tales, he loves to be surrounded by the magical creatures that live in Imagine Forest. While living in his tree house he has devoted his time to helping children around the world with their writing skills and creativity.

Related Posts

Comments loading...

• Link to facebook
• Link to linkedin
• Link to twitter
• Link to youtube
• Writing Tips

25 Fall Writing Prompts to Inspire Your Creative Writing

3-minute read

• 4th November 2022

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Well, no, it’s not quite Christmas yet. But it is fall, the season of orange leaves, cozy sweaters, and spooky Halloween happenings. And with NaNoWriMo just around the corner, now is the perfect time to get some writing done.

So if you’re an author struggling with writer’s block or just looking for fun seasonal writing activities for yourself or a group, these 25 writing prompts will give you some autumn inspiration for your next short story !

1. Find Your Inspiration

First, let’s get inspired by flexing our writing muscles and exploring the season.

If you can, get outdoors and experience what fall has to offer. You can also read some ghost stories or revisit your favorite fall-themed books to get in the mood.

Then, try writing:

●  A list of your favorite things about fall

●  A summary of your favorite scary story

●  A memory from a first day of school

●  An acrostic poem using the words fall or autumn

●  A short piece that starts with Last fall, I…

Still struggling? You can find even more ways to get inspired in our blog post Get Creative! (5 Tips for Writing Poetry and Fiction) .

2. Location, Location, Location

Next, let’s try some exercises that focus on setting.

Write a story that takes place:

●  At a Halloween party

●  In an autumn woodland

●  In a haunted house

●  In a corn maze

●  In a busy cafe

●  At a store’s Black Friday sale

●  In a neighborhood packed with trick-or-treaters

Remember to keep those five senses (sight, sound, smell, taste, and touch) in mind to flesh out your story’s environment.

Find this useful?

Subscribe to our newsletter and get writing tips from our editors straight to your inbox.

3. Get in Character

Now it’s time to practice character and voice.

Write a story from the perspective of:

●  A runaway turkey

●  A ghost with no memories

●  A barista who hates pumpkin spice

●  A scarecrow who has come to life

●  The new kid at school

●  The Greek mythological figure Persephone

●  A witch’s familiar

For advice on how to make your characters realistic and compelling, check out our post, 5 Top Tips for Writing Fictional Characters .

4. Answer the Question

Finally, let’s jump into the deep end with some fall-themed scenarios. Answer some of the questions below to develop a story.

●  It’s fall, and the leaves on the trees are starting to change color… to blue?! Why is this happening?

●  You’re exploring an abandoned building at night, and all the doors are locked except for one. What’s behind that door?

●  It’s Thanksgiving, and your family has sat down to enjoy dinner when your phone starts ringing. Who’s calling?

●  You’re looking out your bedroom window when it starts to get foggy. You can’t see anything, but somewhere outside, you hear a noise. What is it?

●  You’re a farmer preparing to bring in the harvest, but all your crops have disappeared! Where’d they go?

●  An alien is visiting Earth, and they don’t understand what Halloween is. How do you explain it to them?

Proofread Your Work

If you’ve been inspired to write your own piece of fall-themed creative writing, make sure to get your draft proofread!

 Our proofreading team specializes in editing short stories, from haunting Halloween tales to heartwarming autumn romances. You can even get your first 500 words checked for free !

Share this article:

Post A New Comment

Got content that needs a quick turnaround? Let us polish your work. Explore our editorial business services.

9-minute read

How to Use Infographics to Boost Your Presentation

Is your content getting noticed? Capturing and maintaining an audience’s attention is a challenge when...

8-minute read

Why Interactive PDFs Are Better for Engagement

Are you looking to enhance engagement and captivate your audience through your professional documents? Interactive...

7-minute read

Seven Key Strategies for Voice Search Optimization

Voice search optimization is rapidly shaping the digital landscape, requiring content professionals to adapt their...

4-minute read

Five Creative Ways to Showcase Your Digital Portfolio

Are you a creative freelancer looking to make a lasting impression on potential clients or...

How to Ace Slack Messaging for Contractors and Freelancers

Effective professional communication is an important skill for contractors and freelancers navigating remote work environments....

How to Insert a Text Box in a Google Doc

Google Docs is a powerful collaborative tool, and mastering its features can significantly enhance your...

Make sure your writing is the best it can be with our expert English proofreading and editing.

Autumn is the perfect season for writing . I don't know if it's the cool weather or the sugar high from all the pumpkin spice, but the second the leaves begin to turn, I feel my creative juices flowing. And I'll bet I'm not the only writer who gets an itchy pen when autumn rolls around.

Fall is a time when stories want to come alive. There's so many places to find inspiration in the fall — from back-to-school to Halloween to Thanksgiving. Whether you're writing spooky stories, or starting to think about your next novel project for NaNoWriMo in November , now's the time to feed your creative spirit. This is a season where it feels like anything is possible, and one of the greatest parts of being a writer is that with plenty of imagination, anything is possible!

But of course, even in this magical time, starting with a blank page can be rough. So, here are some fresh writing prompts to get your pen moving and the wheels in your head turning. Some of these prompts are autumn-themed, while others are great for any time of the year. No matter what kind of project you're embarking on, grab your favorite warm drink and get writing!

Write a Halloween special for your favorite TV show.

Whether it's Gossip Girl or Game of Thrones .

What's the REAL reason leaves change color in the fall?

Is it science? Is it magic? Give us the scoop!

Design your very own school of magic.

What does it look like? What subjects are taught? Who are the teachers? What's the hot back-to-school gossip?

Write about your best friend.

Tell us EVERYTHING you can about them.

Pick a new playlist. Write something to accompany that playlist.

It can be anything: a story, a poem, or you can even just straight-up describe what you're hearing!

Write a spooky legend about your neighborhood.

Suburbia can be just as scary as the big city!

Tell a fictional story on your Instagram story.

Use this new medium to get inspired and be creative!

What happens when the pumpkin spice craze goes TOO FAR?

What kind of dystopian/utopian world do you envision?

Write an acrostic poem.

Remember these from elementary school? The first letters of each line spell out a word or name. But it doesn't have to be cheesy! Get creative, and try to challenge yourself.

Write about a Thanksgiving dinner attended by your favorite fictional characters.

Thanksgiving's always a great source for DRAMA!

Describe your commute home in EXTREME detail.

The sights, the smells, the sounds. After all, you know this route better than anybody.

Write a piece from the point of view of Siri or Alexa.

This could get scary real fast.

What would you do if you died and came back as a ghost?

Who would you haunt?

Write a piece that begins with a party.

Pizza party? Costume party? You decide!

What's your favorite school supply and why?

Pencil in a writing date with your favorite school supplies.

Describe your favorite coffee shop without using any adjectives.

It's a challenge.

Write a made-up news report.

Maybe it will spark the idea for your next crime novel.

Write a retelling of your favorite Shakespeare play.

Put your own twist on it!

Write a scene that takes place in your favorite bookstore.

This doubles as a good excuse to go to the bookstore. For, you know, inspiration.

Write about a character who has terrible luck.

As they say: there's nothing more entertaining than other people's misfortune.

Write a piece that uses the word "pumpkin" at least ten times.

Bonus points for different usages!

Write the worst break-up you could possibly imagine.

Be RUTHLESS.

Make up your own conspiracy theory.

Or, take one that already exists, and write out how it happened.

Write a story that takes place at your high school, but with a completely made-up main character.

Revisit the good ol' days.

Write a piece from the point of view of a bear, just before they go into hibernation for winter.

Because why not?

15 Fun Fall Writing Prompts

by Sue Weems | 87 comments

Fall is a transitional season with lots of opportunities to delve into memories, activities, or seasonal fun with fall writing prompts. Try one of these creative writing exercises to get you writing during this beautiful season!

Writing prompts are one of the best ways to get in your daily writing practice and hone your writing skills. Whether you're a parent or teacher trying to help reluctant writers get started or a seasoned pro looking for new ideas, today we have a series of fun fall writing prompts to help you transition from the summer season into the autumn, writing all the way.

Fun Fall Writing Activities

Write a scene about a character who is participating in their favorite fall activity. Bonus: add a secondary character who hates doing that activity.

Choose a genre (mystery, horror, romance, sci-fi, fantasy, thriller). Write a scene in that genre that begins in a pumpkin patch where something has gone horribly wrong. 

Create a unique fall competition that turns traditional fall activities on their head. (Largest pumpkin rolling contest, apple pie competition with odd ingredients, corn maze with some unique element that makes it extra fun or terrifying). The write about the winners and losers of the event you created. 

Write a story about a haunted (or otherwise magical) apple orchard. 

Create a scene where characters are surprised by a friendly scarecrow. (Or alternately a less friendly scarecrow!)

Story Starters for Cooler Weather

He dreaded the colder weather. It always…

The pile of colorful leaves began to shake until suddenly…  

Hot apple cider used to be her favorite fall drink until…

Football season was probably going to be canceled…

They'd been hiding for hours, but then the crunching leaves broke the silence…

Fall-themed Writing Prompts

Write about your favorite fall activities, including the first time you participated and any specific favorite memory associated with them. 

Create an epistolary story that could only happen during the fall. (Epistolary= told through personal letters)

 Write about the changing of seasons, how it feels to transition between the two. 

 Tell a creative story about how fall began (or alternately about the adventure of a single autumn leaf). 

Create a cute fall book or short story for children about autumn animals, decorative scarecrows, or your favorite fall holiday. 

Now You Try 

The change of season brings with it a wealth of new opportunities. From hot chocolate and warm sweaters to the crinkle of leaves beneath your feet, there's plenty to look forward to in autumn. Hopefully one of these creative writing prompts sparked some new ideas or got your creative juices flowing as you write this fall. 

Looking for additional prompts? Try our most popular article of short story ideas ! 

What is your favorite thing about fall? Share in the comments

Choose one of the prompts above. Write for fifteen minutes without stopping. Share your practice in the Pro Practice Workshop and leave feedback for a few fellow fall writers. 

Not a member? Join us ! 

Sue Weems is a writer, teacher, and traveler with an advanced degree in (mostly fictional) revenge. When she’s not rationalizing her love for parentheses (and dramatic asides), she follows a sailor around the globe with their four children, two dogs, and an impossibly tall stack of books to read. You can read more of her writing tips on her website .

87 Comments

It’s that single branch among all the green ones that captures my attention every fall. There’s something special and admirable about this one branch boldly stepping out among the ordinary. It glistens in the sunlight, dances in the breeze and beckons to the rest.

Mmm… it beckons to the rest. I love that.

It took many a year to acquire a taste for autumn.

As a boy, I was all about summer romance; with her campgrounds and road trips. I also admired old man winter; looking forward to his snow days and holidays. And I gladly anticipated spring renewal of flower and green; coming forth from her rain-soaked earth.

But autumn? Fall? Death and dying? That’s what it meant to me as a boy; Dread of back-to-school, chore of raking leaf, death of summer fling.

But now I find myself in the autumn of my life; And I have discovered the joy and beauty of fall. Cooling summer heat; fling’s romance reborn to enduring golden love. Trees’ hair turns grey and loose, displays strength in facing winter’s brutal death.

I love the taste of autumn now, the sweetness of cider kiss; The apple of my eye comes close to snuggle and remember. Stories of spring’s rebirth and summer fling and romance cannot compare To the aroma of home fires and tables set for family celebration.

It took many a year to acquire a taste for autumn; And it was worth the wait.

This, to me, was worth the whole thing: “Trees’ hair turns grey and loose, displays strength in facing winter’s brutal death.”

What a great way to personify a tree in fall, like an old woman about to die, losing her hair to age, facing it with calm strength. Beautiful.

I liked this post. The pictures you painted were readily seen. It was easy to conjure some of my own after reading yours. Liked it a lot.

This is beautiful. “the autumn of my life”, the “apple of my eye comes to snuggle”, the “aroma of home fires”. Lovely images! Thanks for sharing.

You’ve come up with a wealth of ideas here. I like how you linked the seasons, and put the Autumn in the context of Summer before it and Winter following: “summer romance” and “old man winter”. Also anticipating “spring renewal of flower and green”. Very nicely and poetically expressed. A joy to read.

“Sweetness of cider kiss” Beautiful.

ah, fall, the one season i turn into somewhat of a nature nut.

“autumn glory”

i thought it was raining but i wasn’t getting wet. i felt no droplets from the sky. though it was overcast and cloudy there was no rain.

it was the rustling of leaves that i heard, not the rush of rain. or was it? instead of water, drops of yellow cascaded from the trees; they whispered loudly, like a hush that washes over a football stadium, the best kind of surround sound.

i should’ve run under the trees and danced in the leaves.

how i would’ve loved to linger even longer along skyline drive that day; it was the one day i didn’t mind driving 40 miles per hour (at most).

these days, i swear i hear the leaves’ siren call – in their auburn, orange, burnt sienna, yellow, and golden glory – beckoning me to sit among the trees from whom they’re about to depart, especially along baron cameron avenue, en route to somewhere, something to do.

as the days get colder, it takes more and more self-control not to pull over and just lay on grass and gaze at the autumn rainbow with a cloudless sky as a backdrop.

Wonderful, Sara.

I love how you frame it. Is it raining? How come I’m not getting wet? No, it’s raining LEAVES. I think that is the best part of this piece.

This is an interesting transition, “i should’ve run under the trees and danced in the leaves.” It’s “raining” but you can’t give into your emotions and get lost in the moment. You’re repressed somehow. Why? You don’t really say, but the desire to let go into nature becomes stronger and stronger.

The only fault with this piece is that there are essentially two parts: the mystery surrounding the rain, and the conflict between your desire to give into nature and your self-control. Can you integrate them?

duly noted.

Fall is nothing more than life giving up on itself so that death will come and flutter it down to the ground in a frenzy of golden crimson glory until life comes and takes authority once again at some time in April or May. Really, it is nothing more than that. It has nothing to do with steaming coffee with vivial conversation, or brandy and intimate warmth, or the twinkling eyes of one who stole your heart many harvest moons ago. It has nothing to do with all that faded romance or frosted glory, even though the autumn leaves are turning to the color of her hair. No, fall is when you understand that the fleeting feigned permanency of life is celebrated most intensely because one true life-mate has come and rescued you from all that old romantic nonsense, and then spent more quivering autumns with you than you had felt before all that misty memory occupied your mind. Truly, that is all fall is.

Yes, Carey. Excellent.

This is my favorite, “nothing more than life giving up on itself so that death will come and flutter it down to the ground in a frenzy of golden crimson glory.” Although, I might have put a period between that and the next phrase.

And I love the (almost) refrain, “Fall is nothing more than that.”

I don’t know what the old romantic nonsense is, that was a bit obscure. But I did like the references to the “one who stole your heart” and was wondering whose hair you are referring to.

even though the autumn leaves are turning to the color of her hair.

this is the point that i caught on to what you were saying, that i became engaged. i like how you discard the hollywood-ized version of fall (though i actually they are pretty accurate in their depiction) for something deeper, more permanent and real. i like that.

I opened the door and was met with a gust of chilly air. The hair stood up on my arms and my heart sank. No, please no. I turned toward the sun and glared. It deceitfully looked the same as it did during summer, but I knew it wasn’t the same. It was weaker. Unable to provide me protection from the cold. Why must you let me down?

Before slamming the door, I stopped for a moment and closed my eyes. I saw leaves falling and dancing on her tombstone. I felt the same numb feeling that paralyzed my body as her casket was lowered into the ground. Was it cold outside? I didn’t know. The goosebumps on my arms were the only sign that it was. I remember looking at them curiously, and wondering if I was having an out of body experience.

I opened my eyes, confused. Where was I? Was it last fall again? No, please no.

I like the mystery. I wonder where this is going?

Are you angry at death or at God or the weather or all at once?

I picked up you were angry at death. Me too. Could resonate with this. Lots of feelings packed into few words.

in autumn, i hear the wind. he is alive and leans into whisper. his words are gentle and flowing. they carry a cadence of up and down, loud and soft, strong and still. he tells me that it will all be ok, everything will turn out in the end. the silence is his breathing in.

in autumn, i see passion. in red i see blood; in brown i see death; in green i see life. orange is fire, yellow is sun, purple is glory. in the fall i see colors unafraid of their own strength.

in autumn, i feel the cold. it presses itself against my hot skin and brings relief. the cold lays its hand on mine, covering them completely, making them hard to move. with stiffened hands, i am forced to slow.

in autumn, i taste apples. sauced, pied, spiced, cider-ed, left whole – i taste them all. slurp. gulp. crunch. wet, sweet, with a bitter end. mmm, fall is yummy.

in autumn, i smell the earth. all the other senses have prepared me for this moment. i stand, a mere speck in the middle of this land. i lift my face to sniff deeply. the earth is carried to me by the wind, preserved by the cold, mixed with apples trees, and explained by the colors that i see.

the earth – in the fall – is delicious.

“the silence is his breathing in.” Wow, gorgeous personification. This one too, “The cold lays its hand on mine.”

I don’t like this line as much, “in the fall i see colors unafraid of their own strength.” It’s a little too abstract for me. Why would colors be afraid of their own strength? Is that what colors are anyway, strong?

Ha, nice interjection, “mmm, fall is yummy.”

“The earth–in the fall–is delicious.” Great line.

as always, thanks for the feedback. it’s informative to me that you didn’t like the one line that i projected my feelings into the object (the colors). i think it was so personal that only i would have understood that line. reminds me that if i am going to do such a thing, there needs to be context within the piece itself – not just my brain. thank you for catching this so i could think on it longer. i do this often when i write.

hey, i notice we don’t give you feedback on your practice that often. are you open to that?

Absolutely. Feedback away 🙂

(I heard somewhere that when writing a novel you should incorporate things from your day into your writing. So I took my fall moment — tumbling with my sister in a huge pile of leaves that my dad had raked up — and I incorporated it into a scene in my nanowrimo experiment.)

I need to get on with what happened once the ambulance left with my dad. But tonight I’d rather talk about autumn leaves. *** Three months after Trent started taking note of me at work, he talks me into taking lunch at the park next to the lab. The oak trees sparkle that golden yellow hue, and the aspens clink their muffled sounds.

We come into a clearing. We see a mountain of leaves, shuffling, crunching. Suddenly one tiny head pops up. More rustling, then tiny head number 2. More scuffle-ing, then tiny head number 3. Soon six arms, three torsos, and six legs appear, but never all at the same time. They are laughing, rolling, throwing leaves into each others’ hair. Trent’s face lights up. He bursts out laughing, a certain kind of laugh that makes me want to laugh, too.

My eyes are drawn to two red wagons a bit further into the clearing. One holds three stuffed bears, the other a small pile of pink socks and dirty white shoes. And then, I see a man beside the wagons, leaning heavy against a rake. He has an odd look of delight on his face. Same as the look I just saw in Trent.

Trent follows my gaze. He too, sees the man and notes his happy fatigue. He tells me the look is about total immersion, the absorption that comes from working to give the people you love something completely good.

I think it’s presumptuous to say you know something when you don’t have the facts to back up your claim. When I start to tell him so, his face muscles go slack and his eyes glaze into the aspen-soaked path ahead.

In an instant, his face had morphed from simple delight into something I can’t name. And I decide in that moment that I’m going to see this guy again.

* * * * Six weeks later, I learn that the day Trent turned 16, and his mother finally walked away for good, he became the guy with the rake for 3 triplet girls, and a toddler boy named Earl.

Kati, I’m so sorry I missed this because it’s so good!

This is such a good paragraph,

“Three months after Trent started taking note of me at work, he talks me into taking lunch at the park next to the lab. The oak trees sparkle that golden yellow hue, and the aspens clink their muffled sounds. ”

You perfectly set it up as a “date” that you’re not so sure about. And then beautifully and seamlessly transition to the park. Where’d you learn to transition like that? I’m going to steal this technique from you.

The pile of leaves is surprising and fun and childlike in a way we can all relate to. I like it. Then you complicate it by the interaction between Trent and the man with the rake. I was a little confused about that last paragraph, but once I got what you meant I was struck by its power. These are interesting characters, Kati. You’ve got something here.

Thanks. You make a good point about the last paragraph, i was curious about the result it would create. confusion is okay i guess…but only if it motivates a reader to go back and try to figure it out.

Sometimes I worry if the subtle messages i try to hide into a piece are so hidden they’re missed altogether, or if they are picked up on but just frustrate the reader because they’re too hard to understand. But Tim tells me its okay to ask a lot of a reader. He also says i should offer things with an open hand (i don’t have to control what my readers learn). it’s been hard for me not to be an over-talker in my writing. but poetry, and now fiction, help me because they both demand so much. poetry demands economy, and — like you say every so often — fiction works best when there is more showing than telling. thanks again for your time to read our stuff carefully!

I am glad you added the last paragraph. It gave closure for me and an understanding of Trent’s change in attitude.

Such beautiful, captivating images bringing out such mesmerizing details. The scenes are so full of life exploding with such radiant color.

Fall; I turn my closet inside out; rearrange the hangers and put the summer things in the back of the closet, farthest from my reach. The open toed shoes and sandals moved to allow the closed toe shoes space front and center. It doesn’t take very long. As a matter of fact, it was only fifteen minutes. So a casual Sunday afternoon trip to my favorite clothing store becomes necessary.

Fall; football all weekend, gearing up for the world series and gardening shears to prune the roses for the coming of winter. Pool drained and supplies stored until next year. Cooler months mean open windows and a dry breeze blowing through the house. Rainy weather with a hit-and-miss shower across the hill country makes the rivers rise and the lakes fill. The Bermuda grass readies itself for dormancy and begins to wither and shrivel and turn slightly brown.

Fall; it is a time to retreat and regroup, a time to reorder and rejuvenate with celebrations and quiet moments. We all live for fall.

i agree that we do rejuvenate and have quiet moments. Sometimes with candles lit. The only thing I have against fall is what follows. Liked your post and your imagery.

Thank you Anne.

The Real Story about Leaves

All my life I’ve thought of leaves as helpless. Sure they get a time of glory before their number is up. Some of them become spectacular and have people oohing and ahhing all over the place. They show up on calendars in the autumn months. Kid’s draw them and trace them. Even in their death they supply satisfaction as children crunch them underneath little feet.

Trees are full of leaves that I thought hung on till their time was up and then float down.

But I’ve had a change of mind. A transformation if you will.

Sure, there are trees who succumb to strong winds and watch their little leaves stripped and blown far and beyond. Everyone knows that happens.

People can look out their windows and see a tree with half their leaves and following a gust of wind be stripped of half of them. Yes that goes without saying, and yet it needed to be said.

But I’m talking about something very different. I’m talking about what I witnessed that I just have to share. It wouldn’t be right if I kept it to myself.

I think leaves jump. I think they decide when they will give themselves over to the wind and they just let go and ride that wind to their resting place.

Leaves are not victims. They do not have to hang there as they watch loved leaves leave before them. They don’t have to crumple up before their time just waiting to see when their number is up.

No, I witnessed it myself.

I watched some leaves in living color. Once green then in between and finally a brilliant red. A red that glowed and seemed transparent.

I watched those leaves and could hardly take my eyes off of them. I felt like I somehow became part of the tree as I saw their swaying, watched their tenacity. And then it was wonderful to watch. They simply released their little hold on life. They submitted to a force greater than them and with all the dignity in their veins they let go.

It makes me feel differently about leaves, about trees for that matter.

I mean I read where in the end trees will actually clap their hands. Now that will take some will power, don’t you think?

So leaves have more to them than just a thin membrane that reflects color. They have life.

In the spring you see them poke little heads out as they first appear as buds. Desperately they try to compete with the blossoms some trees display, but alas, it is pointless. The blossoms emit a smell that mesmerizes.

Then in summer people find shelter underneath them. Are they thanked? Hardly. And yet, you will see people rush to be beneath the shade they provide.

I think we need to give leaves more credit.

And so, I thought it was time to let the world know. Yes, some leaves do fall. But it’s also true, some leaves jump.

Oh, there goes one now. Bravo!

Wonderful Neverland tones. Your story made smile broadly at the imagery of leaves’ joyous jumps into the winds that carry them onward. Thanks for sharing 🙂

Thanks, Belinda. It was fun writing it.

I really enjoyed reading your story, which breathes life into leaves. I love this ‘In the spring you see them poke little heads out as they first appear as buds. Desperately they try to compete with the blossoms some trees display, but alas, it is pointless. The blossoms emit a smell that mesmerizes.’ I really smelt the blossom. Like Belinda, I’m also very glad you shared your story here 🙂

Thanks Katie. I appreciate your comments so much.

Autumn. I always feel melancholy at the change of the season, particularly as the weather cools into the months of March to May. Its not so much that the land changes, in most of Australia and where I am currently living the summer is so scorching that the flora here has already mostly died off and is well and truly browned. Though there are places where you can see the leaves change colour but its not any place that I’ve ever afford to live, actually ever to even visit. The places where the real trees are kept and cared for and fed the precious water that might keep souls alive long enough to find a way out of this nightmare we created so long ago, are not for the likes of me, not that its an option anymore.

I’ve seen what Autumn looked like all those years ago in the books before they too were snitched up into the history vaults. No the melancholy I feel for Autumn is for the 15 lives I sacrificed to test the portaviability device that the much lauded Dr Sanville assured us would save the whole world. It didn’t. It didn’t save anyone, it condemned us and those we trapped on the other side of prism.

I sigh that now I’ve lived here so long that all the regret, rage, and heartache at the loss of our people and our home has now dwindled into the sad pathetic tones of melancholy. ‘Liv, I’m sorry to bother you ma’am but I think you should come and see this’. Liv put down the pen closing her journal as she stood and turned towards the door. A man stepped into the door way and Liv felt the blood run from her face. ‘Dr Sanville’ his voice low and cold, ‘we’ve been looking for you for a long time, will you come with me now please?’. It didn’t sound like a question. Dr Livia Sanville placed the journal discreetly on the corner of the desk and stepped toward the man she knew very well, ‘do I have a choice?’ her question rhetorical as she walked passed him and out the door. ‘No Liv, you don’t. You can’t possibly be surprised by that’. He close the door to her office and followed her out.

Ooooh, a little science fiction mystery for us! I’d like to know more about the end of this world and the prism device.

Cheers Missaralee 🙂 I’d like to know more too! It pretty amazing this writing caper, its an interesting experience this not knowing where the story is going to go while being the one on the keyboard. Si-Fi Mystery – you made me smile. Thanks.

I was lost wandering around D.C. waiting for the museums to open. I had taken the commuter train into the city expecting to find throngs of people this cool November morning, but I found nothing except old newspapers blowing in the wind. I closed my eyes and inhaled the power, the history of this place. The cold air coursed through me and I pulled my coat tighter. I wasn’t lost exactly I had seen the scene many times on television. The proximity of the White House to the Lincoln memorial across the reflecting pool to the Washington monument, it was strangely familiar for never having been there before. I spotted the Vietnam Veterans memorial and somberly walked past the cold marble structure. The names so small you have to get up close to see them and press your hand to them and whisper a prayer for their sacrifice. I came around to the other side and found another reflecting pool, this one with ducks and leaves floating across the surface. Around the perimeter were trees. I have no idea what kind of trees I only know they were beautiful and unlike anything we had in Texas. They stood like sentinels with dark trunks and large purple leaves, perfectly spaced watching over the Veterans. At the end of the pool like a guard stood the most radiant yellow and orange leafed trees I had ever laid eyes on glowing like sunshine through the darkness. I walked to the coffee cart then sat on the park bench staring in awe at the beauty and heartache and said a grateful prayer.

My dog stood still in the pile of leaves. At first she was afraid of the rake, but grew accustomed as my yard went from a layer of leaves to piles of orange, yellow, red and brown dotting the landscape of a once-manicured lawn. The cool chill on the top of my cheekbones faded with the exertion.

It’s this in-between period that’s hard to read. Symbolically, we’ve been over it a million times. English teachers and philosophers, scientists and theologists denote different definitions of autumn, but, for me, it’s the period of maybe. Maybe it’ll cool down enough so we’ll need extra blankets tonight; Maybe we’ll be fortunate to get that week were summer wants to hold on those extra hours.

These are the days of mindfulness. We schedule hikes that overlook valleys of foliage. We make chilis and soups to go with Sunday afternoon football games, feeling their warmth and spice as we over-induldge. We sneak a little closer to our spouses under the cover of a soft blanket. We feel the light autumn sweep through the apple trees.

I used to be afraid of autumn. The start of school, the summer loves packing their things. The constraints of a routine overshadows the freedom of summer. This has always hurt.

I don’t think I’ve shared my To Autumn short story with The Write Practice community. Since the line I write about the leaves is probably my favorite, I would love to share it with you wonderful writers!

I might come back and write a new story, too! I’ll be back!

It’s definitely worth a read. It’s short, as short stories go, but packed full of emotion and meaning. Very thought-provoking.

Kay sat gazing out the window of her bedroom, mesmerized by the beauty overhead. What is it about the blue of September skies that makes it so special from all the rest? She was sure there was a scientific explanation having to do with the angle of the sun this time of year, or some other equally-as-boring reason for its uniqueness. But Kay preferred to imagine it like a divine (either small or big “d”) overture playing a sentimental recap of summer that gracefully segued to a seductive preview of the coming autumn.

Kay sat gazing out the window of her bedroom, mesmerized by the beauty overhead.

What is it about the blue of September skies that makes it so special from all the rest?

She was sure there was a scientific explanation having to do with the angle of the sun this time of year, or some other equally-as-boring reason for its uniqueness. But Kay preferred to imagine it like a divine (either small or big “d”) overture playing a sentimental recap of summer that gracefully segued to a seductive preview of the coming autumn.

It was 11 years and 25 days ago, but there are some things in life one never forgets. The bus driver stopped at the middle of the road and told me to get off right there. The way to the bus stop was blocked by construction work. And so I got off in the middle of nowhere, in the middle of nowhere in a foreign country I have never been to before. The bus drove away leaving me and my suitcase on an empty road. I took a deep breath and looked around. A quiet street on a September evening. Cars parked on a side walk, roofs covered with leaves. Leaves everywhere. Red, yellow, green. A wind blow, and here they come, dancing in the air till they silently reach the ground.

It was 11 years and 25 days ago, but there are some things in life one never forgets. Every year when autumn dyes the trees yellow, when the leaves rustle under my steps, I take a deep breath and smell something in that autumn air that always makes me remember that day I finally reached home.

Don’t go into the woods. The leaves are piled deep in the dark. The crush of boots and the rise of musty scent would bring THEM near. They fear the colour of the dying wood. Green was bad enough, but the symphony of red and yellow and orange reaching a crescendo in the silent woods would unravel their plans so carefully set. When the moon looms high over the sleeping wood, stay on the path. Make not a sound in the dark, stay not a second in the silver pooled light or the Grey Men will come for you to snuff out your light.

Characters reactive to colour. Nice one. I haven’t read something like that before. Let’s hope i’m not trying to explain to my mate the creeped-out felling I’ve got on my next woods walk 😉

Not since childhood had she seen leaves like this, when walking to school through a golden carpeted walkway. The Blue Ridge Parkway made her gasp as crimson dogwoods, flaming maples and oaks fell into bouquets across the hills. Each vista exposed a new canvas painted in autumn’s finest hues. As the sun set over the western ridge, a deep rosy glow extended its fingers across the entire masterpiece. She pulled off the road for a moment and stared, holding her breath lest the magic disappear. Breathing in the cool, damp air she was joined by the chirp of a single chickadee basking in the waning light. Like a child, her cares fell away in the quiet beauty. A single tear spilled across her cheek.

You’ve painted vividly such a sweet memory. I can picture it as if I was there. Sometimes you just have to take a moment to reflect. I can relate to that.

I liked your descriptions. Especially,” a deep rosy glow extended it’s fingers…” Really nice.

The smell came first. Then as I’d walk along, scuffing my feet deliberately in the scatterings of crisp downed leaves, reveling in their crackling, I’d come upon strangely huge heaps of them, orange, brown, and scarlet, with tendrils of blue smoke giving off that enticing, compelling aroma of fall.

Sometimes the piles of leaves would be surmounted by a flicker of orange flame, other times they’d simply smolder. Strangely, I never seemed to see the ashheaps that such burning must entail. It’s as though the pilers-up of these aromatic monuments to Autumn never allowed them to burn clear down to the asphalt roadway, but quickly gathered newly fallen fire-fodder to reinvigorate the ritual.

Sometimes shards of pumpkin would be visible near these piles, depending on the date being late October or early November. The smell of raw pumpkin, ahh, that’s a memory. The luxuriant taste of freshly made, gleaming pumpkin pie, another. And the look in Jackie’s eyes when I’d carved her name in the huge pumpkin we’d won in the ‘guess the weight’ contest at Fred’s Market…

There was the tangy, acrid smell of the furnace being run for the first time, invisibly blowing the accumulated dust of half a year into the air. The gentle transition from a cool beer on a warm deck to a glass of Shiraz on the sofa, with drops of condensation forming on the picture window as a cherrywood fire winked and hummed in the fireplace (good dry cherry never crackles), was an inevitable demarcation between the unbounded freedom of summer and the condensed, self-contained sheltering of the season of snow to come. Winter coats would be found. Gloves, unthinkable in July, became inevitable in November… Jackie’s ski stuff would be retrieved from the attic…

I watched a gleaming white cattle ibis strut its stately way along the sand between impossibly tall swaying coconut palms. Leaning to my left, I retrieved my cellphone from the orange beachy duffle I’d been using as luggage for the past three months.

“No thanks”, I said to the florid faced, flower shirted waiter who had been politely plying me with mai-tais all afternoon.

I speed-dialled a number. It was time to go home to New York. Or at least, try.

Autumn has always considered a certain, intoxicating atmosphere for me. The aroma of decaying foliage mixes with the rich flavour of rain on the forest floor. The crash of bright, exotic colours that mixes and flares on the reaching branches of trees, stark and beautiful against the frosty blue sky beyond. The sharp, not entirely unpleasant cut of the air that cleans out your lungs and not without a bite to remind you how great it is to be alive. ~~~ Not feeling inspired right now… That’s all I’ve got 🙂

You’ve made a good start here, Brianna. You’ve created a sensory experience I can see, smell and touch. It kinda makes me want to go for a walk right now. Here, it’s not frosty. The sun is out, making the Autumn leaves all golden. Who could resist?

Thank you! 🙂

Sorry, had to repost due to some mistakes —————————————————–

It was 11 years and 25 days ago, but there are some things in life one never forgets.

The bus driver stopped in the middle of the road and told me to get off right there. The way to the bus stop was blocked by construction work. And so I got off in the middle of nowhere, in the middle of nowhere in a foreign country I have never been to before. The bus drove away leaving me and my suitcase on an empty road. I took a deep breath and looked around. A quiet street on a September evening. Cars parked on a side walk, their roofs covered with leaves. Leaves everywhere. Red, yellow, green. A wind blow, and here they come, dancing in the air till they silently reach the ground.

It was 11 years and 25 days ago, but there are some things in life one never forgets. Every year when the sun dyes the trees yellow, when the leaves rustle under my steps, I take a deep breath and smell something in that autumn air that always makes me remember the day I finally reached home.

Hi Gill, I like the last paragraph it feels like a story could start right there.

In your main para, I felt like I was pulled around by the imagery, for example, ‘in the middle of the road’, ‘in the middle of nowhere’, ‘on an empty road’, but then on a ‘quiet street’ and with ‘cars parked on a side walk’ as descriptions of the same place. I might have a different visual image of ‘nowhere’ thanks to the Australian outback but a nowhere scape and a street scape feel very different to me.

Thanks for sharing your words.

Hi Belinda. Thank you very much for taking the time to read. This is such an interesting observation you made there! Indeed, there is no such thing as “Australian in the middle of nowhere” in overpopulated Europe. So when I say “in the middle of nowhere” i usually mean an unknown place with few or none people, where there is nothing nearby that can help you identify where to go. When I think back, in this case it also describes rather my feeling than a place. I got off not at the bus stop as expected, but some other completely unknown place where there was nothing around except trees, some small houses and cars. So it literary felt like “the middle of nowhere”. I never thought about that this could mean something entirely different to other people 🙂 Thanks for pointing it out!

Oh you were in Europe 😀 I was secretly wondering, hehe. It is interesting how its all different for different folks isn’t it 🙂 Here in Australia, even when in one of our crowded cities most locals are still acutely aware of the great nowhere laying not far beyond the suburban sprawl. You’ve made me think about how description works for a reader. Cheers for your feedback too.

Hi Joe. I loved your Autumn story. Here’s my practice:

This is where I played hide-and-seek when I was little. Here, where the beech trees drop their spent leaves, forming a soft carpet under-foot. The woodland forms a maze of paths, each weaving its way through a series of dips and hollows. Ancient tree roots thread their way across the surface of the hollows forming raised knotted veins.

For me, and my brother, being here as children was just a fun day out. Chasing each other, we hollered our way through the woods, pretending to be cowboys and Indians.

However the forest had a more serious side. The dips and hollows that I loved, as a child, hadn’t been formed by a sublime act of nature. They were there for a reason.

Nearly a century before I had set foot here, grown men had shaped these dips. Their specific intention was to hide in them in order to practice warfare. Nature had reclaimed them, but couldn’t eradicate entirely their past. For these were the practice trenches for the Great War. The men who trained in these woods later fought in the trenches at Flanders. Many didn’t return.

Autumn, my favorite time of year and life. Funny, I wrote this little exercise for writing group, yesterday, before looking at this practice prompt.

Click, click click, the solar flowers tick like my aunt’s old Keininger rose mantel clock, soothing. The dryer hums counter point, with the children in the park next door laughing and squealing the melody of days gone by.

The old maple sheds one brown leaf at a time, still mostly green and yellow, holding tightly to it’s youth.

Enjoying this season of my life. Striving to be as content and beautiful as the warm colored trees. Peace is the gift of aging while the sun casts long shadows signaling the end to another perfect day.

(More poetry, but it’s still writing) four girls printed sand two-on-two ball in hand sleeves rolled down chilly air dusty knees ball is fair drifting leaves sides reverse play resumes bodies terse shoulder swings wrist snaps down sand sprays up four hearts pound dipping sun golden blur sandals on home returns hugs around glistening eyes fall hellos and summer goodbyes.

Never posted anything before – I’ve never used facebook or twitter or anything so not sure I’m posting correctly but here goes my ‘out of place’ practice: I stretched my arm to balance the black bin against my hip, coffee mug in my other hand as I used the bottom of my shoe to nudge the car door closed. The lobby door was already propped open so Linda could breathe summer air while watching the world go by in the parking lot as she occasionally peered up from the screen of her laptop. “Hey”, she said glancing up as I angled into the lobby with my load. “I have more in the trunk”, I answered, setting my first bin on the table. “Two bins full. I was outside ‘til almost dark getting the stupid things scrubbed.” By now I was mumbling more than talking, heading down the hallway to get the cart.

I should’ve just pulled my car around the side of the building and set the gourds out by the tables of pumpkins and watermelons, but I hated being outside with the produce – someone invariably stopped when I was out there, then tried to figure out who I was by asking round-about questions that would piece it together for them. If that didn’t work, they’d come right out and ask ‘now, who are you?’ It would start with “where are these grown?” as they gestured to the pumpkins on the table. “Bloomsdale” I’d answer, and they’d throw out the name of any farm in Bloomsdale, knowing that I’d have to say no, we live out on ‘X’ road. “Who has a farm out there?” And when I gave our last name, my cheeks burning under the scrutiny, they kept going until they named enough people with my last name, to figure out exactly where I fit into the scheme of things. They weren’t happy until they knew who I was married to, and who his family was.

I’m a very private person; anti-social even. Few people know who I am by sight. This is a good thing in a town where gossip is the true currency.

Now for a transaction of two or three dollars, I dodge questions and feign interest in who’s married to this person’s son, or did one of my relatives work at the hotel a few years back, “seems like I remember a Tanner working there…” I want to interrupt with “This isn’t even my stuff – I have to get back inside to my real job, so buy a pumpkin or don’t, makes me no difference!”

But I can’t do that because my husband has decided he’d like to farm on his time off. So we haul this stuff in here every morning and set the tables with our imperfect produce. Marks left by too many dry days in a row, or too many rainy days and nights. We can’t remove the cracks and scars that mother nature haphazardly flings onto everything; sweet potatoes with crevasses, pale marks where the gourds sat plump and waiting on the damp ground. Gray-haired ladies lift and examine, judging.

sorry – posted below to wrong link and don’t know how to move it – should’ve been the ‘out of place’ link.

“It’s not like it was,” I tell my children as we kick a smattering of damp leaves from the sidewalk. They each snatch a soggy maple leaf from the concrete and hold it aloft, letting the rain drip from it and onto their heads. “It was better when I was a kid,” I insist. My mind wandered to a faded photo I discovered in the bottom drawer. My sister and I and our little dog, posing before a hand-sheaved corn shock in the backyard. I was seven, maybe eight, my sister was twelve. Our dad took that photo with his Polaroid Insta-matic, so proud of his self-taught photography skills. We had enormous piles of leaves, gathered together with the help of the lawn sweeper, unwillingly operated by one of my older brothers. The piles that weren’t used for jumping in were made into bonfires for cooking our hotdogs and marshmallows over. Chilly nights were warmed, and our friends and neighbors visited every day for the enjoyment of leaping from the swing-set into the leaves. My children, living in this nearly treeless subdivision are surrounded by concrete sidewalks and families with too-cautious parents who won’t let them meet the neighbors. They are unknowingly bereft of those Autumn adventures. “It was better then.”

It’s my favorite time of year, when nature struts flamboyance no fashion designer can touch.

If it weren’t a yearly thing, I’d almost swear it was magic, the way trees shed their vibrant greens for gold, red and brown.

It’s not until October that I feel the season coming, the one that makes me eager for those cooler, shorter nights.

I’m from Down South, where summer heat hangs tough. I wait eagerly for our first day of fall. Just the word itself seems to conjure breezy days.

When the sun sets earlier and the wind begins to chill, and colored coats of every tree transform I cry, “Relief!”

Yes, relief. Fall is under way.

Prompt #13: I Stood In My Backyard Overlooking The Fields By Kiki Stamatiou a. k. a. Joanna Maharis

I stood in my backyard overlooking the fields covered with leaves. I saw the blanketed collage surrounding every step of the path. Reminders of yesteryear from when I was a small child overlooking the life now just a few faint breaths radiating from left over age of the country.

I watch the birds fly into their nest. I can hear them chirping while teaching their children to fly. A baby sparrow took its first steps off of the branch, ascended into the air taking flight, then dove down only to rise again. The little bird flew high up into the grey skies as the rain settled onto my flesh. Just little droplets of tears given off by the angels up in heaven guarding the gates allowing access to the Lord’s latest flock of children to take homage and passage into the realms of the beyond.

As I stood there overlooking the fields where the leaves of gold, red, and brown blanketed the earth, I thought about the times my brothers and I tossed a football around in the yard with our cousins, and closest friends. I remembered the barbeques we had in the summer time celebrating my birthday.

However, fall is a time where the phoenix goes into the earth comprised of ashes, such as the leaves do when they wither and die. They become food for a new lineage line of plants that will emerge in the spring. The earth is replenished of its sustenance. In a realm of the dead, the new life is carried away into the masses of they who await to welcome him home.

I hear the sounds of birds teaching their young the ways of the world. As they get lost in the world of survival, only the strong will survive and go on to dominate in a world filled with tears wear war breaks out overseas. Yet, I remain humble as I look on at the sight before me.

I can see a squirrel gathering nuts for the winter in the distance and burying them into the earth. The warmth they shall receive shall keep them until the night falls on the heads of the living. There are no empty roads. For there are only roads filled with promise, regardless of the obstacles getting in the way of success. For every light found within nature, each leaf is counted as a life no gone, but not forgotten.

Sending out their signals to the latter part of the world, the pigeons soar high into the heavens in a beauty arrow shape they form when in alignment. Now they are soldiers of the Lord. For one day, they to will become angels in the wake of my dreams.

Drifters come, and drifters go, but elongated are the streams of the heart, when the light of heaven unfolds in a leaf fallen to the ground, and now rests on top of my feet, gathered around piles and piles of other leaves who have also met their match and taken their stance of the wiles of their dance.

May the wisdom of the birds be carried out and live in the hearts of man for ages to come.

© Copyright, Kiki Stamatiou, 2015

In the middle of my tenth autumn, the day after my best friend moved away from the house next door, I tried to climb a tree. I had never attempted something so bold before, mostly because I was and am still not a very coordinated boy. The tree wasn’t tall but as I remember it only had a few foot holds. It is gone now. It looked like a pair of hands, joined at the wrists, ready to clap.

I placed my foot in the V and stepped up the right side of the tree, an inch or two at a time. After a while and many short breaths, I had ascended about five feet. It was as high as I’d ever been unless you count being in a plane or standing on the back of the couch in the living room.

There was no one around to see the climb, but I felt triumphant. I paused to see my world from a new angle. I noticed the roofs of the cars in the driveway, and in the hills past my friend’s old house I gazed at new homes and fresh woods, speeding up in anticipation of winter. The fall flies and when cold comes it flees. People do this, too. I do this, too.

The jagged bark of my tree dug into my fingers. My hands still had a decent grip, but my weight was all behind me, all wrong, so when my foot slipped and I fell I did so down and back, ass first on the ground. My head bounced off the grass and my ears rang and after I opened my eyes I realized my leg was caught in the tree. I wiggled it. I tugged on it. I couldn’t reach my toes so I couldn’t try to pull on my shoe. I was stuck there, on the ground after having been in the air. I called for my parents and looked up at the tree, split open in the middle like it had been spliced by lightning.

It’s leaves had changed already. I was laying on a bunch of them. They were brown and crinkled when I moved. I didn’t really know why the one I was caught in looked like it was dying faster than the other trees in the yard. I didn’t know that some things change quicker than others. I didn’t know why the tree had to die; the sky still rained warm water on occasion. I heaved a big breath and my chin tensed up and I cried.

My parents rushed out of the house, frightened by the assumption that my tears were painful ones. My dad used a piece of lumber to pry the tree further apart and unhinge my leg. The crying had intensified to a sob.

“Can we save it?” I said.

“Your leg’s fine, don’t worry,” she said.

“No, mom, the tree.”

“What’s wrong with the tree?”

“It’s losing its leaves faster than the other trees.”

She hugged me a little harder. I felt her look up at the trees.

“It’s just getting ready for the winter,” she said. “It’s only changing. That’s how it lives.”

“Does it have to?”

“It would have to die if it didn’t.”

I was young and hysterical and full of longing then so I didn’t comprehend life’s purpose, but she held me and my dad wrapped up my scratched leg and we went inside.

I laid down on the cool grass, spreading my fingers through the soft, green blades. I was thankful that it was autumn time, for their were no bugs waiting in the grass, ready to bite me. I looked up, not blinded by the sun because of the cloudy weather. A leaf from the old maple tree next to my home fell from a branch, landing on my chest. I picked up with my hand, bringing it to my face so that I can see it’s distinctive patterns. It was a redish orange color, and the size of the leaf as large as my hand. I twirled it around on my fingertips, before letting it fall to my side. There are plenty more of those leaves in the pile of them that I had raked up yesterday. A nice breeze went through the air, sliding through my light jacket and onto my skin. I shivered, yet in a good way. I closed my eyes thinking; this is why fall is my favorite season of the year.

The Fall (teenager, English as my third language)

Brown, yellow, red. Step after step I run into a different colour. It feels as though each encounter wants to tell me something. Dying, living, resting. I feel bad for stepping into them, and I cannot help but notice all the amount of brown-ish leafs piled on the side of the path by which I run. The palisade of black-ish iron on which the load of leafs rest, seems to want to reach its highest, as the arrow at the top shows its direction. Leaving on the bottom, the broken, dying leafs. Each howling breeze takes them away from the place they were, taking them into the deepest of the forest as if saying ‘that’s where you belong’. Again, step after step, now I even see orange, green and fuchsia. I leave behind me the darkest part of the way. Now, upon reaching the end of the path, a new world opens in front of me. The wind taking with it all the falling leafs from the trees. The sun letting its shinning light show me all the leafs flying. Another Autumn day awakes.

Trackbacks/Pingbacks

• i love autumn; autumn, autumn, autumn « sara choe - [...] i am, meh. i wrote a little ditty; check it out and scribble one of your own here: i…
• fall {a practice in creative writing} | every common bush - [...] the following was today’s creative writing assignment in “the write practice” (an online writing community that seeks to create…
• Four Ways to Use Personification to Deepen Description | The Write Practice - [...] is how reader Adriana Willey used personification in response to Wednesday’s prompt, Fall. In autumn, I hear the wind.…
• Fall Is In The Air | True Stories - […] Inspired by “The Write Practice“. […]
• Fall Is In The Air | True Stories with Gill - […] Inspired by “The Write Practice“. […]
• Our 10 Best Creative Writing Prompts - […] See the writing prompt: Fall […]
• 100 Writing Practice Lessons & Exercises - […] Fall [writing prompt] […]

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Submit Comment

Join over 450,000 readers who are saying YES to practice. You’ll also get a free copy of our eBook 14 Prompts :

Popular Resources

Book Writing Tips & Guides Creativity & Inspiration Tips Writing Prompts Grammar & Vocab Resources Best Book Writing Software ProWritingAid Review Writing Teacher Resources Publisher Rocket Review Scrivener Review Gifts for Writers

Books By Our Writers

You've got it! Just us where to send your guide.

Enter your email to get our free 10-step guide to becoming a writer.

You've got it! Just us where to send your book.

Enter your first name and email to get our free book, 14 Prompts.

Want to Get Published?

Enter your email to get our free interactive checklist to writing and publishing a book.

16 Fantastic Fall/Autumn Writing Prompts

For some, fall (or autumn) symbolizes harvest, and the beginning processes of hibernation before winter. For others, fall means that hay rides, Halloween and Thanksgiving are just around the corner!

With all this fun to look forward to, it's easy to forget about school, but we're here to help! We’ve created a list of fun fall writing prompts to keep your child on track and make writing a part of your fall/autumn routine!

What colours and scents do you associate with fall? Write about everything that comes to mind.

What three words do you associate with autumn? Write a short story including these words.

When you think of autumn what images come to mind? Can you describe the scenery? What happens to nature?

Write a report about magical animal that would love fall!

Write a short story about a magical pumpkin that comes to life!

Can you think of a nice memory you’ve shared with someone during fall? Write a letter to them reminding them of the memory.

Autumn can be a spooky season. Write a story about Halloween and think about what makes the holiday so spooky.

Can you write a play about a little ghost who got lost on his way back to his haunted mansion? Make sure to give him a name!

Did you know this season is called both “fall” and “autumn”? Write a persuasive essay about why you think it has both names.

Think about the sound leaves make when you step on them. Write a poem describing this.

What would your magical creature dress up as for Halloween? Write a story about their costume! What would they wear?

Think of your favourite Halloween candy. Can you create a brand new flavour and candy type?

What’s your favourite season and why?

Autumn is usually associated with the colors red, orange and yellow. If you could pick a color for leaves to turn, what would you pick and why?

Imagine you’re going on a hay ride with your magical animal. Write an adventure story about what happens.

You’re on your way to check on your animals in the Night Zoo and you run into a ghost! Write a conversation between the two of you.

More seasonal prompts

• Winter Writing Prompts For Kids
• Spring Writing Prompts For Kids
• Summer Writing Prompts For Kids

Looking for even more creative writing prompts and other educational resources ? Our reading & writing program for kids includes thousands of fantastically fun activities to improve your child's language arts / English skills!

There are interactive reading & writing lessons, prompts for all styles of writing, skill challenges to test your child's spelling , grammar , and punctuation , and personalized feedback on all of your child's work.

Sign up today to get a FREE 7-day trial!

Got any questions? Email us at [email protected] . Follow us on social media for more creative writing prompts, giveaways, and other freebies:

Make Reading & Writing Fantastically Fun!

• Award-winning reading & writing program for kids
• Improves spelling, grammar, punctuation & vocabulary
• Over 1,000 different learning games and activities

“My Child Hates Writing.” What do I do?

25 Creative Writing Prompts for Kids

Halloween Writing Prompts for Kids

Free Differentiated Creative Writing Prompts for Fall

The fall season is upon us! An easy way to inspire young writers is to use fall creative writing prompts !! Whether your students are in 2nd or 5th grade, these prompts are tailored to suit various grade levels and cater specifically to struggling and reluctant writers.

Creative Writing Prompts for Fall Makes Writing More Fun!

Harness the magic of the season with creative writing prompts!

Fall-themed prompts help ignite imaginations. Young writers may get transported to pumpkin patches, leaf-strewn pathways, or even eerie Halloween scenes. 

We love fall writing prompts because they invite students to vividly  describe  the crisp air, the scent of pumpkin spice, and the rustle of colorful leaves. Creative writing around a theme for students not only makes writing more engaging but also provides a platform for students to express their unique perspectives about it.

Let’s check out some fall creative writing prompts to get your students to  fall  in love with writing this season!

But first, check out the Fall vocabulary video below, if your students need extra practice with fall words!

How to Differentiate These Fun Prompts for Fall

When giving writing assignments, keep an open mind for how you can differentiate based on your student’s needs. With writing prompts, it’s best to make sure they’re just right for each student. Let’s talk about some ways you can differentiate all of the fall creative writing prompts below for your students:

For kids who are really good at writing, ask them to write longer and give lots of supporting details. You could even add a part where they have to find facts, like a mini-research project, or have them write more than one paragraph. Give these students a list of conjunctions to use to further develop their writing!

For kids who find writing a bit harder, break the prompt into smaller steps if needed. Show them an example before they start writing. Encourage them to write as much as they can, even if it is only 1-2 sentences. They can extend their writing by drawing a picture to accompany their piece. Do they still need help with writing a complete sentence? We’ve got you covered right HERE!

We always say it’s the QUALITY, not the QUANTITY of the writing that matters! As always with differentiation, everyone gets the right kind of challenge and support they need.

Fall-Themed Writing Prompts for Every Student:

Below we have broken down different categories for some autumn writing prompts for this new season. Our hope is that no matter if you are working with struggling writers or students with really strong writing skills, these fun fall writing prompts will be a way to encourage their best creative writing!

So have students grab their journals or some fall paper and get their creative writing juices flowing! These are perfect to throw up on the SMARTboard for morning work, or to use at the start of an intervention session!

Fall Daily Writing Prompts

🍁  Fall is the perfect season for…

🍁  My favorite thing about fall is…

🍁  My favorite food during fall has to be…

🍁  My favorite fall activity is…

🍁  5 things on my fall bucket list are…

🍁  On rainy days during fall, I enjoy…

​🍁  The perfect fall day starts like this…

​ 🍁  My favorite Halloween costume so far was…

​ 🍁  My favorite fall memory is…

​​ 🍁  I feel the happiest and coziest in fall when I am …

​ 🍁  My favorite fall decorations are…

Check out our Fall Paragraph Writing resource that provides you with more fall prompts, organizers, and scaffolded activities!

Fall Acrostic Poem: A Fun Way to Play with Words

Acrostic poems are a neat way to combine creativity with structured writing. 

🍁  Challenge your students to spell out “AUTUMN” or “FALL” and use each letter to begin a line of their poem with a fall idea. 

It can be just one word or a short phrase. This activity not only helps with their descriptive skills but also encourages them to think critically about word choice.

Fall Opinion Writing Prompts

Doing opinion writing can be another great way to let students reflect on their favorite fall activities while still working on their writing skills. Opinion writing is really beneficial for students because it helps them think deeply about a topic and express their thoughts clearly.

When students write about what they believe, it gives them a sense of ownership over their work. They learn how to build strong arguments by providing evidence and good reasons to support their opinions. It’s also about knowing who they’re talking to – understanding their audience. Plus, it helps students appreciate different points of view and learn how to disagree respectfully. 

🍁 Do you prefer apple pie or pumpkin pie? Give 3 reasons why.

​🍁  Do you think Johnny Appleseed was smart? Why or why not?

​🍁  Would you rather jump in leaf piles or pick apples?

​🍁  What’s your favorite season change: fall or winter?

​🍁  Would you rather go on a haunted hayride or get lost in a corn maze? 

​🍁  Do you prefer to go to a pumpkin patch or apple orchard?

​​​🍁  Do you prefer warm, sunny fall days or cool, crisp ones?

🍁  Is apple pie or pumpkin pie the best fall dessert?

​ 🍁  Do you prefer the color brown or orange and why?

​ 🍁  Would you rather dress up as a ghost or witch for Halloween?

​​ 🍁  If you were going to a Halloween party, would you choose a scary or funny costume?

​ 🍁  Write about your favorite dish for Thanksgiving dinner and why you love it.

Fall Story Starters

We love a good fall story starter to help students write a short story. A fictional story is perfect to work on during the autumn season and winter months. Writing short stories is the perfect way to get student’s creative juices flowing.

🍁 When the leaves changed color, it meant it was time for…

🍁 In the heart of the pumpkin patch, I discovered a tiny door. When I opened it, I was surprised to find…

🍁 One chilly fall morning, I woke up to find my backyard transformed into a magical forest. The trees whispered secrets and the leaves seemed to shimmer with hidden treasures… 

​🍁 One foggy evening, a peculiar visitor appeared at our door. It was a friendly ghost who needed our help to find…

​🍁  At the edge of town, stood a peculiar tree with branches shaped like hands. Legend said it could grant one special wish every year on the first day of fall…

🍁 One crisp fall day, my best friend and I found an old, dusty book hidden in the attic. Little did we know, it held the key to a forgotten world of magic and adventure…

Bonus: Try the Talking Pumpkin Activity!

This is a fun one where imaginations really run wild! To get students’ creative juices flowing this season, have them make a list of ALL the things a talking pumpkin might say! Watch them have tons of fun with this! There are so many things you can do with this activity:

• Pair it with a cute pumpkin craft for a fall bulletin board display
• Write a short story
• Have students combine pumpkin characters and write a story together in a group
• Put on a pumpkin puppet show

Other Resources To Try During the Fall Season:

Check out the GRASPHOPPER LEARNING STORE for more Differentiated Writing Activities!

Are you ready to help your students FALL in love with writing this season?!

Excuse our digital dust! We’re busy renovating this website to make it even more fabulous. Stay tuned!

• Read more about: Fall , Paragraph Writing , Sentence Writing , Writing

You might also like...

What is the RACE Writing Strategy?

The Best Paragraph Writing Worksheets for 5th Grade

4 Steps to Teach Students When Summarizing Nonfiction Text

How to Effectively Teach Creative Writing in Elementary

Teach smarter, not harder join the newsletter.

Transform your teaching with our teaching tips, resources, and freebies delivered straight to your inbox!

The Goodies

© GRASPhopper Learning • Website by KristenDoyle.co

• Privacy Policy
• Create a Website
• $1,000 Blog Tour
• Happiness Tour
• 5/11 Blog Tour
• Guest Posts
• Writing Prompts
• Writing Exercises
• Writing Tips
• Holiday Writing
• Writing Contest
• Comedy Channel
• Prompts eBook
• Kids Writing Book
• 9 to 5 Writer Book
• Writing Tips eBook
• Happiness Book
• TpT Reviews
• Read These Books
• Motivation Help
• Time Management
• Healthy Living
• Grades 9-10
• Grades 11-12
• First Grade
• Second Grade
• Third Grade
• Fourth Grade
• Fifth Grade
• 1,000 Character Writing Prompts
• 1,000 Creative Holiday Prompts

Free Creative Writing Prompts #43: Fall

I will admit, fall is my favorite of the four seasons. I'm a Libra baby, so I get to have a big ole' party, Halloween is an awesome holiday that brings both candy and costumes, and I have always loved playing soccer in the fall (even if it's just me kicking the ball around alone). For that reason, here are some extremely enjoyable free  creative writing prompts  about fall. All of the leaves, the brisk chills, and the beginning of the holiday season can be talked about within these ten idea-generating story starters. Feel free to share those ideas with the community in the submission form below!  Free Creative Writing Prompts: Fall

1. The leaves on all the trees have changed color and begun to fall all around town. How does this multi-colored landscape make you feel?

2. Despite the fact that you've been asked to rake up the leaves, you and several friends have decided to jump and play in them instead. Talk about the experience.

3. You walk through the brisk cold of an autumn morning with frost on the ground. Fall is truly in the air. What does that mean to you?

4. Pumpkins, corn husks, and scarecrows. What is the best set of fall related decorations you've ever seen?

5. What is your favorite fall related activity? Some examples might be a haunted hayride, soccer game, or a pumpkin patch.

6. A child asks you why the leaves change colors and fall down. How do you explain to him in a way he'll understand.

7. Where in the world would you most want to be to get the best fall experience? Write a story of one day in that location.

8. Halloween, the World Series, the annual pumpkin pie contest. What is your favorite fall event that you look forward to and why?

9. The kids have gone back to school and now you have more time with your significant other. How do you spend it?

10. What is your favorite fall related food and why?  Fall has changed a lot for me since I graduated from college. I miss getting back into the swing of things with classmates and peers and learning copious amounts of new information from new teachers. That being said, now throughout the year I make the effort to continue learning through new authors and I still try to learn more from myself as each year goes by. Hopefully, these free creative writing prompts about fall will also help you guys and gals to learn more about yourselves. Happy fall and happy writing!  Bonus Prompt  - You are a leaf on a tree that is undergoing foliage. What are your leafy thoughts and feelings? 

Related Articles to Prompts about Fall Free Creative Writing Prompts from the Heart, Part 1 Free Creative Writing Prompts #2: Love Creative Writing Exercises #2: Relaxation

Done with Prompts about Fall? Go back to "Creative Writing Prompts"

Would you prefer to share this page with others by linking to it?

• Click on the HTML link code below.
• Copy and paste it, adding a note of your own, into your blog, a Web page, forums, a blog comment, your Facebook account, or anywhere that someone would find this page valuable.
• Latest Posts

Write a Story Based on These Prompts or This Article!

Use the above prompts or article as inspiration to write a story or other short piece.

Enter Your Title

Add a Picture/Graphic Caption (optional)  

Click here to upload more images (optional)

Author Information (optional)

To receive credit as the author, enter your information below.

Submit Your Contribution

• Check box to agree to these   submission guidelines .
• I am at least 16 years of age.
• I understand and accept the privacy policy .
• I understand that you will display my submission on your website.

POPULAR PAGES

Creative writing prompts for autumn

by Kim Kautzer | Oct 25, 2017 | Writing & Journal Prompts

Each season brings the opportunity for fresh new writing experiences. These four creative writing prompts for autumn invite kids to imagine what it would be like to wake up in the future, write an autumn acrostic poem, create a fall wish list, or devise a plan to keep winter from coming!

1. Autumn Wish List

A bucket list is a wish list of things you would like to experience in your lifetime. What parts of the country (or world) would be spectacular at this time of year? Where would you like to visit? What sorts of fall activities would you like to do? Make an autumn bucket list that includes 5-10 things you want to do in the fall at some point in your life.

2. A Long Nap

In the famous story by Washington Irving, Rip Van Winkle  escapes to the mountains. While there, he has a strange encounter with a group of ancient, bearded men who are playing a game of ninepins (bowling). Rip falls asleep, but when he wakes up, he finds that 20 years have passed! Write a story in which you wake up in a pile of autumn leaves . How much time has gone by? What is your last memory? How has the world changed?

3. No Winter for Me

Last winter was bitter and harsh in many parts of the United States, and many people are not at all looking forward to this coming winter. Write a funny story telling about three things your main character will do to try to keep winter from arriving .

4. A is for Autumn

Write an acrostic poem about autumn :

• Vertically on your paper, write the word “AUTUMN.” (Younger children can write “FALL.”) For an extra challenge, write “FALL SEASON” or “AUTUMN DAYS.”
• Next to each letter, write a word, phrase, or sentence related to the season. Think about weather, colors, holidays, and family activities. (For example, “A” could be Autumn, Apple picking , or Acorns drop from mighty oak trees. )

Let’s Stay Connected!

Subscribe to our newsletter.

• Gift Guides
• Reluctant or Struggling Writers
• Special Needs Writers
• Brainstorming Help
• Editing & Grading Help
• Encouragement for Moms
• Writing Games & Activities
• Writing for All Subjects
• Essays & Research Papers
• College Prep Writing
• Grammar & Spelling
• Writing Prompts

Recent Posts

• An exciting announcement!
• 10 Stumbling Blocks to Writing in Your Homeschool
• Help kids with learning challenges succeed at homeschool writing
• How to correct writing lessons without criticizing your child

Autumn Equinox Creative Writing Prompts for Kids

Autumn is a magical season of change, where the world transforms into a canvas of fiery colors, and the air carries a hint of crispness. As the autumn equinox approaches, it’s the perfect time to harness this seasonal shift and inspire creativity in your kids. Creative writing is a wonderful way to encourage them to explore their imagination, enhance their language skills, and express their thoughts and feelings. Let’s delve into the world of creative writing for kids and use this collection of autumn equinox-themed prompts to spark their imaginations.

The Magic of Autumn Equinox

The autumn equinox marks the moment when day and night are in perfect balance before the days grow shorter and the nights longer. It’s a time when nature itself seems to whisper stories, and the shifting landscapes can serve as a wellspring of inspiration for young authors.

Benefits of Creative Writing for Kids

Before we dive into the prompts, let’s take a moment to appreciate why creative writing is so valuable for kids.

Creative writing:

• Enhances language skills, including vocabulary and grammar.
• Nurtures imagination and critical thinking.
• Fosters self-expression and boosts self-esteem.
• Encourages a love for reading and storytelling.
• Develops problem-solving abilities and empathy.

Incorporating creative writing into your child’s routine is like opening a door to a world of endless possibilities.

Read more about the Benefits of Creative Writing Prompts with your kids .

Getting Started with Creative Writing

The key to nurturing a young writer’s creativity is to create a supportive environment. Here’s how:

• Provide Writing Materials: Ensure your child has access to notebooks, pencils, and perhaps even a special journal for their creative writing endeavors.
• Set Aside Time: Dedicate a specific time each day or week for creative writing. Consistency is key to building a writing habit.
• Embrace Freedom: Encourage creative freedom. Let your child choose what they want to write about and how they want to express themselves.

See how we use our Creative Writing Prompts in our Home Education Journey .

Creative Writing Prompts Subscriber Library

If you would like access to the printable version of these creative writing prompts for kids for free you can join our subscriber library by filling in your details below. You will then receive access via email with a password and link.

In the library, you will find different seasonal, themed, and monthly prompt printables including our September Creative Writing Prompts for Kids .

Here are the creative writing prompts inspired by the autumn equinox. These prompts are designed to ignite your child’s imagination:

• Write a descriptive poem capturing the beauty of the changing colors of leaves during the autumn equinox.
• Imagine you stumble upon a magical portal that leads to a hidden autumn realm. Describe your journey and the enchanting sights you encounter.
• Write a fictional dialogue between the sun and the moon, discussing their roles and how they work together during the autumn equinox.
• Create a poem that celebrates the autumn equinox as a time of harvest and thanksgiving for the gifts of nature.
• Imagine you are an autumn spirit who comes alive during the equinox to spread the magic of the season. Write about your adventures and the impact you have on the world around you.
• Describe a moment when day and night are in perfect balance during the equinox, exploring the symbolism and emotions it evokes.
• Imagine you are a nature observer during the equinox. Write a journal entry describing the animals and plants you encounter and their behaviors during this time of transition.
• Describe a unique celebration or ritual that a fictional community or culture partakes in during the autumn equinox.

Creative Writing Subscriber Library

Cerys Parker is the mum behind the home educating family at Rainy Day Homeschooling, she's a marine biologist, environmental educators and ex-teacher. Hands-on learning, reading around and delving into subjects deeper has been one of the most enjoyable things to homeschooling her kids and she shares her expertise here.

Similar Posts

University of Washington Links

• College of Arts & Sciences
• Directories
• Concentrations
• Photo/Media
• Painting + Drawing
• 3D4M: ceramics + glass + sculpture
• Field Studies
• Student Work
• Study Abroad
• Art History BA
• Art History Minor
• Art History MA Thesis
• Art History MA Practicum
• Art History PhD
• Student Research
• Interaction Design
• Visual Communication Design
• Industrial Design
• Laptop Requirement
• Master of Design
• BDes/MDes Shows
• COVID-19 Updates
• Voicing a Concern
• News + Events
• Exhibitions

Mobile Menu

• Graduate Students
• Visiting Artists + Lecturers
• Seattle Arts + Culture
• Jobs, Internships, and Opportunities
• First Day Attendance
• Final Exam Attendance
• Career Fair
• Design Travel Award Application
• Finding an Internship
• Finding a Job
• Portfolio Advice
• Resume Advice
• Alumni Blog
• Alumni Statistics
• Prevention Plan
• For Students
• Press Releases
• Stay Connected
• Undergraduate Students
• Jobs + Opportunities
• Academic Advising
• Student Voice Project
• Scholarships + Awards
• Advisory Board
• A-Z Directory
• Recent News
• News Archive
• Technology + Equipment
• Rome Center
• Exhibitions, 2022-2023
• Exhibitions, 2021-2022
• Exhibitions, 2020-2021
• Exhibitions, 2019–2020
• Exhibitions, 2018–2019
• Exhibitions, 2017–2018
• Exhibitions, 2016–2017
• Exhibitions, 2015–2016
• Exhibitions, 2014–2015
• Jacob Lawrence Legacy Residency
• The Black Embodiments Studio
• BIPOC Graduate Student Curatorial Fellowship
• Critical Art Writing Group

You are here

• Autumn 2024

ART 339 A: Photography

November Writing Prompt: Embrace Autumnal Creativity

My name is Debbie, and I am passionate about developing a love for the written word and planting a seed that will grow into a powerful voice that can inspire many.

The Warmth of⁤ Autumn: November’s Perfect Opportunity for Creative Writing

Exploring the‍ colors ‍of fall: how to‍ capture autumn’s palette in your writing, finding inspiration in nature: embracing the season’s⁣ bountiful beauty, from pumpkin spice‌ to ⁣cozy sweaters: infusing​ autumnal ‌elements in⁤ your ‍stories, delve into halloween horrors: crafting⁢ spooky tales for the‌ fall season, unleash⁤ your inner poet: using autumn’s ‌charms to create ‌captivating verses, embracing ⁤change:⁢ exploring the symbolism of‌ autumn in​ your writing, the magic of harvest: harvesting ideas⁤ for unique autumnal writing pieces, frequently asked ⁢questions, key⁣ takeaways.

As⁣ the cool ⁤breeze ‌gently rustles ⁤through ‌the colorful leaves and​ the sun casts a ⁢ warm golden glow , November offers a perfect opportunity ‍for unleashing your creativity through writing. This vibrant season‍ has a unique charm that ignites‍ inspiration⁢ in the hearts of writers ⁢worldwide.

One of the most captivating aspects ⁣of autumn is the kaleidoscope ‌of colors‌ that paint ⁣the ⁣landscapes. ⁢Immerse‍ yourself ⁣in nature’s stunning ​beauty⁤ and ‍embrace ⁤the various⁤ shades ​of red, orange,​ and yellow. Let⁤ these vibrant ‌hues⁣ fuel your imagination as you describe the mesmerizing foliage in your ⁢stories, ​poems, ⁢or even ‌personal​ reflections. Add vivid details‍ to transport your readers to a ⁤place‍ where they can ​almost ⁣hear the ⁤crunch of ‌fallen leaves ‍beneath their feet ​and⁤ smell the earthy‍ aroma of autumn in the air.

Bringing the Vibrant Fall Colors to Life:

As⁣ autumn graces us with its mesmerizing display of colors, it’s time for writers⁣ to embrace the beauty of the season and infuse their ⁤writing with the vivid palette of fall. ‌Capturing the essence of‍ autumn ⁣in your writing can transport readers ⁢to a ‍world of golden ⁣hues, fiery ⁢reds, and⁣ earthy browns. So, let’s explore some creative ways to⁤ incorporate the colors of ‌fall into your writing.

1. Painting with Words:

Immerse your readers in ⁤the autumnal spectrum ⁤by using descriptive language that evokes the various⁢ colors of‌ fall. Rather than stating ‍the ⁤obvious, delve deeper ‍into the shades that define this‌ season. Describe the leaves ‌as “burnt sienna,” “sunflower⁢ yellow,” or “russet brown.” Bring the ​reds to life by ‍calling them ​”crimson,” “scarlet,” or “cochineal.” Adding such rich and specific ​descriptions ​will engage your readers ⁢and ‍envelop them in⁣ the‌ beauty of autumn.

As the seasons change, nature presents us with an abundance​ of beauty that can truly inspire and ​uplift our ‌spirits. Whether it’s the vibrant colors⁢ of autumn leaves, the ⁣delicate blossoms ​of ⁢spring,​ or the ‍tranquil ⁣landscapes of winter, there is​ always ⁢something captivating about each season. Connecting with nature allows us⁣ to find inspiration‌ in the simplest of things, fostering a deeper appreciation for the world around us.

One can find inspiration in the ⁣symphony of sounds that nature orchestrates:⁢ the⁢ melodious chirping of birds, the​ rustling of leaves‍ in the gentle breeze, or the⁢ rhythmic crashing of waves against the shoreline. These simple⁢ sounds have a way‍ of soothing our souls and igniting ⁤our creativity. Moreover, being in nature encourages us to slow‌ down and observe the intricate details—the delicate veins of a leaf, the intricacy ⁣of a spider’s web,⁤ or⁣ the patterns formed ⁣by raindrops on a⁣ puddle. ⁢It’s in these moments‌ that we can⁤ find inspiration for art, poetry, or simply a ⁢refreshed perspective on life.

As the ⁤leaves change ⁣colors and⁤ the air becomes crisp,​ it’s the perfect time to bring the⁢ enchanting essence of​ autumn into ⁤your‍ stories. Whether you’re penning a captivating novel, a⁣ cozy short ‌story,​ or a lively blog‌ post, infusing autumnal ​elements can add ​a touch of​ warmth and nostalgia to your writing.⁣ Here are​ a few creative suggestions to help you create a truly immersive autumn experience‍ for your readers:

• Embrace the seasonal scents: Scents⁣ play a powerful role in‍ triggering memories and setting the atmosphere.⁣ Incorporate ‌the aroma of pumpkin spice, apple orchards, or fireside gatherings to transport ⁢your readers to an autumn wonderland. ‍Just imagine the cozy atmosphere you can create by describing the ⁣comforting ⁤scent of freshly baked apple pies ⁣wafting through the air.
• Captivate with‍ colorful descriptions: Autumn⁢ is a season of ‌vibrant⁢ hues and‍ breathtaking⁢ landscapes.⁢ Paint ‌a picturesque scene⁤ by using rich,⁣ evocative language to describe the golden⁣ and ‌amber leaves‍ gently cascading from⁣ the​ trees, creating a‍ colorful carpet beneath your characters’ feet. Transport your readers to ‍a crisp, ⁤autumnal setting, where they can practically‌ hear the crunch ⁣of leaves underfoot and feel⁤ the chill nipping at ⁣their cheeks.
• Weave in cozy traditions: ‌ Autumn is a time for cherished traditions⁤ that bring joy and ⁤warmth to our lives. Incorporate elements such as pumpkin⁣ carving, hayrides, or ⁣gathering around a ⁣crackling bonfire into your⁤ stories. Foster a ‌sense of comfort and‍ camaraderie as your characters⁤ bond over steaming ‌mugs of delicious apple⁢ cider ⁤or indulge⁤ in the simple‌ pleasure of⁤ wrapping themselves in soft, chunky knit sweaters.

Infusing autumnal ‍elements into ⁤your stories lends a‌ touch of magic to your writing, immersing your ​readers into ​the soulful beauty of the season.⁣ From the sensory delights of fall ⁤scents‌ to the captivating allure of vivid landscapes and cherished traditions, ‍autumn​ offers a‌ treasure trove ⁤of inspiration. So, grab⁣ a cozy​ blanket, ‍sip on your favorite pumpkin-spiced beverage, and let the seasonal charm infuse your⁤ writing with warmth and​ enchantment.

With the⁢ arrival of​ fall, ⁣Halloween enthusiasts are ready to awaken their inner storyteller and create bone-chilling ⁤tales that⁤ send shivers​ down your spine. Crafting spooky tales ‌is a time-honored tradition that brings ‌together elements of mystery, fear, and the supernatural, making it the perfect season​ for unleashing your creativity. Whether‌ you’re ⁣a seasoned ⁤horror writer or a budding storyteller, this post is here to ‍inspire you with some ⁤thrilling​ ideas for‌ your‌ next Halloween⁣ masterpiece.

1. Unleash the Power⁣ of Setting: Halloween is all‌ about capturing the atmosphere, ⁢so choose your setting‌ wisely.⁣ Abandoned ‍haunted houses, eerie forests, or mystifying graveyards can provide the ​perfect backdrop for ​your tale. Pay attention to the ⁣details; the creaking floorboards, flickering candles, or the⁣ musty smell of decay will ⁢transport your readers into the heart ⁣of your⁢ haunted world.

2.‍ Develop Haunting Characters: A captivating tale needs memorable characters, both ‍heroes and villains. Consider crafting a ​wicked witch with a mysterious past or⁣ a brave ‍protagonist ⁣with ⁤a tragic secret. ‍Allow your characters​ to evolve and reveal their dark ​side throughout the story. By creating relatable⁢ characters, you can engage your⁣ audience and add⁤ depth to ⁤your narrative, drawing them further into ⁤your spooky ‍tale.

Autumn, with its vibrant tapestry ⁣of colors and⁣ crisp cool air,⁤ is a season ⁤that awakens the poet within. As nature‌ dons its ‌golden attire, why not channel the beauty ⁢and magic of fall ⁢into captivating verses that dance ⁣on the‌ page? Here are some tips to help you harness⁣ the essence of ‌autumn and create memorable ⁤poetry that captures⁢ the hearts ‌of ‌readers.

• Embrace⁤ the Palette of Fall: Take a moment to soak in ‍the scenery around you ‍with observant eyes. ‌Notice the fiery red ⁤leaves, the ‍amber hues⁣ of​ the setting ‌sun, and the earthy browns ​of fallen acorns. Incorporate these vivid colors into your poems, using descriptive language that paints a picture ⁢in the reader’s mind.
• Delve into Sensory ‍Imagery: Autumn appeals‌ to our⁢ senses in unique ⁤ways.‌ Capture the nostalgic scent of⁣ woodsmoke, ‍the‌ taste of warm apple pie, or the comforting crunch‍ of leaves beneath your feet. Engage your⁢ readers by incorporating sensory details, allowing​ them‌ to⁣ feel, taste, smell, and⁤ hear the magic of fall through your words.
• Evoke Emotions: Autumn is a​ season of transition, ⁣where nature ⁤reminds us of the impermanence of life.‍ Tap into this ⁤emotional undercurrent and explore themes of change, nostalgia, and introspection. Whether ‍it’s the bittersweet farewell to summer or the anticipation of winter’s ⁤embrace, let your verses resonate with the deep ​emotions that autumn⁤ stirs within us.

By immersing yourself in the splendor of⁣ autumn,⁣ your inner⁤ poet will awaken, ready to translate the ⁣wonders of⁣ the season into⁢ verses that captivate and inspire. Allow the golden ⁢sunlight and gentle rustling of leaves to ignite your‌ creativity, ‌and let​ your words flow like a gentle​ breeze through the pages of your poetry. Embrace the charm of​ autumn and embark ‍on a poetic ‍journey that​ truly enchants⁢ both you and‌ your readers.

Autumn, with its fiery foliage and ‌crisp air, offers ⁣writers a rich tapestry of symbolism‍ to explore in their craft. ⁢With each falling leaf⁤ and change in the natural world, autumn serves⁣ as a ​powerful metaphor for⁣ transition, letting go, and the cyclical​ nature⁤ of life. By integrating these themes into your writing, you can imbue your work ‍with depth and resonance.

First and foremost, autumn‌ symbolizes change. ‌As the ‌leaves turn from vibrant greens to a ​stunning array of reds,​ oranges,​ and yellows, it reminds‍ us​ of‍ the impermanence⁣ of all‌ things.⁤ Harnessing ⁣this symbolism, you can explore⁣ themes of personal‌ transformation or the evolution of relationships in ⁤your stories ‌and poems. Furthermore, the ‌falling leaves can represent​ the act of letting go, whether it be releasing ⁣past pain, shedding old‍ identities, or surrendering to the unknown.⁤ By infusing your characters with the willingness to accept change and‌ adapt to new circumstances, you can⁤ create authentic​ and relatable narratives that resonate with readers.

• Use vivid‍ descriptions ⁢of autumn ⁤landscapes to⁢ evoke a sense of change and transition.
• Explore the emotional impact ​of letting go and⁤ embracing new‌ beginnings.
• Develop characters who‌ undergo internal transformations during this season.

As writers, we have the ⁣opportunity to ⁤harness the beauty and symbolism⁤ of ⁤autumn, allowing it to ⁢enrich‍ our work. Consider incorporating the​ themes of change, letting go, and cyclical​ renewal into your writing, thereby creating ⁣a masterpiece that⁣ captures the essence of this⁣ evocative season.‌ Embrace the magic of autumn⁤ and⁤ watch⁣ your words bloom like the fallen leaves‍ in​ a⁣ symphony ⁣of colors.

As autumn arrives with its vibrant colors and‌ crisp air, ⁢it offers a wealth of inspiration for⁣ writers seeking ​to capture the essence of‌ the season. ⁤The magic​ of harvest envelopes us,⁣ presenting endless possibilities⁣ for unique and⁣ evocative writing pieces. Whether you are a ⁢seasoned writer looking to explore new avenues or a novice eager to embark on this literary adventure, this⁤ guide will⁢ provide a bountiful⁢ harvest of ideas to ⁢infuse your autumnal⁤ writing⁢ with warmth and charm.

1. Explore​ the ⁢Sights: Take a leisurely stroll through​ a pumpkin ‍patch ‌or an apple orchard, immersing yourself in the beauty of nature’s bounty. Observe the golden hues of autumn leaves, the plumpness⁣ of ripe⁤ fruit,⁢ and the rustic charm ‌of hay bales. Note⁢ down the ‌sensations these sights evoke, ​and let them become the backdrop of your writing‌ pieces.

2. Embrace the ​Flavors:⁤ Autumn is synonymous with delightful​ flavors and aromas. Indulge in⁤ the taste of freshly ⁢picked apples,​ warm pumpkin⁣ spice, or ‍the⁣ earthiness of roasted chestnuts. Let these autumnal flavors permeate your writing, ​infusing your ⁢descriptions with the richness and depth that only the harvest season can provide.

Q: ⁤What is the November Writing⁢ Prompt: Embrace Autumnal⁢ Creativity all about? A: ‌The November Writing Prompt: Embrace Autumnal Creativity is an article that aims to inspire and encourage ‍writers‌ to explore‍ their creative abilities during the autumn season.

Q:‌ Why is ​autumn considered a⁣ great time for creative​ writing? A: Autumn, ​with its vibrant colors, cooler temperatures,‌ and a‍ sense of change ⁣in the air, serves as a ⁣perfect ⁢backdrop to ⁢stimulate the ⁣creative mind. It allows​ writers to‌ draw inspiration from the beauty of nature and the unique atmosphere ⁣that⁣ autumn ‍brings.

Q: How can embracing autumnal ‌creativity benefit ⁤writers? A: Embracing‌ autumnal ⁤creativity provides ⁤writers‌ with the opportunity ⁣to tap into a wellspring of fresh ideas. It can⁢ help them expand their imaginative horizons,⁣ infuse‍ new depth into their writing, and ​rejuvenate their overall⁣ writing process.

Q: Are ⁤there specific writing prompts suggested​ for autumn-themed ⁢writing ? A: Yes, the article provides several autumn-themed writing‍ prompts to ⁣ignite your creativity. These prompts may include topics such as⁢ capturing ​the⁣ essence ⁢of​ a crisp autumn morning, describing ‌the⁤ transformation ⁢of leaves, ⁤or exploring​ the⁣ symbolism of autumn ‍in literature.

Q: ⁢Is this article⁣ only suitable for​ experienced writers? A: Not at ‍all! This article is suitable for both experienced‌ writers and beginners ​alike. It‍ is meant to​ inspire and motivate writers of all levels to embrace their creativity during the autumn⁤ season.

Q:⁤ Does ‍the article⁣ offer any tips on ⁤overcoming writer’s block during the autumn ⁢months? A: Absolutely! The article includes practical tips on overcoming ‌writer’s block during⁤ the autumn months. ⁤These tips range from immersing‍ oneself in nature to seeking inspiration⁣ through seasonal activities.

Q: Can ‌embracing autumnal creativity be helpful for other art forms, such as painting or photography? A: Yes, embracing​ autumnal creativity​ can be beneficial for artists in various​ art ‌forms. Whether you are​ a painter, photographer, or any other type ‍of⁣ artist, the unique ⁤colors and atmosphere of autumn ⁣can serve as a rich source⁢ of inspiration for your work.

Q: Are‍ there any​ suggested resources or ⁣further ⁤reading provided in the article? A: Yes, the article ⁤offers further reading⁢ recommendations and resources related‍ to embracing autumnal ‍creativity. These⁣ may include⁢ books, online courses,⁣ or⁣ even ⁣websites dedicated to ⁢writing prompts and creative inspiration ⁤during the‌ autumn months.

Q: ⁣How can writers share their autumn-themed creations with​ others? A: The article suggests several ways that writers⁢ can ⁣share their autumn-themed creations‍ with others.​ This⁤ may involve publishing their work on personal‍ blogs, ⁣participating in ‌writing communities and contests, or even considering submitting their pieces⁢ to ⁤literary magazines‌ with⁣ a seasonal‌ focus.

Q: Can embracing autumnal‍ creativity have‍ long-term impacts​ on a writer’s development? A: ⁤Yes,⁣ embracing autumnal creativity has the potential to have long-lasting impacts‍ on a writer’s development. By regularly engaging in ​creative writing during autumn and the‍ changing seasons, writers can cultivate their skills, explore different genres, and⁣ gain valuable insights that will contribute to​ their ⁢growth as⁤ writers.

In conclusion, embracing autumnal ⁤creativity ​can be ​a ⁤rewarding experience, ‌allowing us ‌to explore⁣ the ‍beauty of the season and nurture our ​writing skills. So⁤ grab a pen, immerse⁣ yourself in the ‍vibrant colors and cozy vibes, and ⁢let your imagination soar. Happy writing!

Finish the Story Writing Prompt: Complete Creative Narratives

Timed Writing Prompts High School: Enhance Speed and Skill

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Reach out to us for sponsorship opportunities.

Welcome to Creative Writing Prompts

At Creative Writing Prompts, we believe in the power of words to shape worlds. Our platform is a sanctuary for aspiring writers, seasoned wordsmiths, and everyone. Here, storytelling finds its home, and your creative journey begins its captivating voyage.

© 2024 Creativewriting-prompts.com

ChatGPT vs. Microsoft Copilot vs. Gemini: Which is the best AI chatbot?

Artificial intelligence (AI) has transformed how we work and play  in recent months, giving almost anyone the ability to write code , create art , and even make investments . For professional and hobbyist users alike, generative AI tools, such as  ChatGPT , offer advanced capabilities to create decent-quality content from a simple user prompt. 

Keeping up with all the latest AI tools can get confusing, especially as Microsoft added  GPT-4 to Bing  and renamed it to Copilot, OpenAI added new capabilities to ChatGPT and released GPT-4o , and Bard got plugged into the Google ecosystem  and rebranded to Gemini.

Also: How to use ChatGPT (and how to access GPT-4o)

Knowing which of the three most popular AI chatbots is best to write code , generate text , or help build resumes is challenging. We'll break down the biggest differences so you can choose the one that best meets your needs. 

Testing ChatGPT vs. Microsoft Copilot vs. Gemini

To help determine which AI chatbot gives more accurate answers, I'm going to use a simple prompt to compare the three: 

"I have 5 oranges today, I ate 3 oranges last week. How many oranges do I have left?"

The answer should be five, as the number of oranges I ate last week doesn't affect the number of oranges I have today, which is what we're asking the three bots. First up, ChatGPT.

You should use ChatGPT if...

1. you want the most advanced ai chatbot - for free.

OpenAI lets users access ChatGPT , available with the GPT-3.5 and the GPT-4o models, for free with a registered account. But if you're willing to pay for the Plus version, you can access GPT-4, use a higher prompt limit for GPT-4o, and get early access to new features for $20 monthly.

ChatGPT with GPT-4o, available for free users, answered the question correctly. 

GPT-4o is a new omnimodel available for both free and paying ChatGPT users. Rather than relying on three separate models to power its features with GPT-4 for text, DALL-E 3 for images, and Whisper for voice, GPT-4o is a single model capable of processing and generating text, images, and sounds. This makes it faster than GPT-4 for paying subscribers, and its free availability makes it even better. 

Aside from giving free ChatGPT users access to the latest GPT-4o model, the company also announced that free users will have most of the features that until now were exclusive to Plus users. These include web browsing, access to custom GPTs, ChatGPT Memory, and advanced data analysis.

2. You want to try the most popular AI chatbot

ChatGPT  was created by OpenAI and released for a widespread preview in November 2022. Since then, the AI chatbot quickly gained more than 100 million users, with its website alone seeing 1.8 billion monthly visitors. It's been at the center of  controversies , especially as people uncover its potential to  do schoolwork  and replace some workers.

Also: ChatGPT will put your data into interactive tables and charts with GPT-4o

Since its release, I've been testing ChatGPT almost daily. Although its user interface has remained simple, minor changes have improved it greatly, such as a simplified user interface and adding GPT-4o for free users,  Custom Instructions , and easy access to your account. 

The free version of ChatGPT using the default GPT-3.5 model gave the wrong answer to our question.

Though ChatGPT has proven itself as a valuable AI tool, it can be prone to  misinformation . Like other large language models (LLMs), GPT-3.5 is imperfect, as it is trained on human-created data up to January 2022. It also often fails to comprehend nuances, like it did with our math question example, which it answered incorrectly by saying we have two oranges left when the answer should be five. 

Also: I put GPT-4o through my coding tests and it aced them - except for one weird result

For example, the GPT-4o model answered the math question correctly, having understood the full context of the problem from beginning to end.

Next, let's consider Microsoft Copilot (formerly Bing chat) , which is a great way to access GPT-4 for free, as it's integrated into Bing's new format. 

You should use Microsoft Copilot if...

1. you want to use gpt-4.

Though the free version of ChatGPT lets you use GPT-4o, access to free users is limited to about 15 messages every three hours or capped depending on peak hours to keep it accessible to the widest number of people. After you reach your GPT-4o limit, your chat session reverts to GPT-3.5, which is limited to generating text in a conversational style with information up to early 2022.

Also:  How to use Copilot (formerly called Bing Chat)

On the other hand, Copilot can access the internet to deliver more current information than GPT-3.5, complete with links to sources. 

Copilot's Creative conversation style was the only Copilot mode to answer the question accurately.

There are other benefits, too. Copilot is powered by GPT-4, OpenAI's LLM, and is completely free. Unfortunately, you are limited to five responses on a single conversation and can enter up to 4,000 characters in each prompt. 

Also: Microsoft Copilot vs. Copilot Pro: Is the subscription fee worth it?

Copilot's user interface isn't as straightforward as ChatGPT's, but it's still easy to navigate. Though Bing Chat can access the internet to give you more up-to-date results compared to ChatGPT, I've found it is more prone to stall before replying and will miss more prompts than its competitor does. 

2. You prefer more visual features

Microsoft has upgraded its platform several times to add visual features to Copilot, formerly Bing Chat. At this point, you can ask Copilot questions like, 'What is a Tasmanian devil?' and get a response complete with photos, lifespan, diet, and more, for a more scannable result that is easier to digest than a wall of text. 

When you use Copilot, you also can ask it to create an image for you. Give Copilot a description of what you want the image to look like, and the chatbot will generate four images for you to choose from. 

Also: How to use Image Creator from Microsoft Designer (formerly Bing Image Creator)

Microsoft Copilot features different conversational styles when you interact with the chatbot, including Creative, Balanced, and Precise, which alter how light or straightforward the interactions are. 

The Balanced and Precise conversation styles in Microsoft Copilot answered my question inaccurately.

Finally, let's turn to Google's Gemini, formerly known as Bard. It uses a proprietary LLM and has received considerable upgrades in the past few months.

You should use Gemini if...

1. you want a fast, almost unlimited experience.

In my time testing different AI chatbots, I saw  Google Bard catch a lot of flack for different shortcomings . While I'm not going to say they're unjustified, I will say that Google's AI chatbot, now named Gemini and powered by a completely different AI model than the one it debuted with, has improved greatly.

Also: How to use Gemini (formerly Google Bard): Everything you should know

Gemini is speedy with its answers, which have become more accurate over time. It's not faster than ChatGPT Plus, but it can be faster at giving responses than Copilot and faster than the free GPT-3.5 version of ChatGPT, though your mileage may vary. 

Gemini answered accurately, like GPT-4o and Copilot's Creative conversation style.

The previous Bard used to make the same mistake as other bots on my example math problem by incorrectly using the 5 - 3 = 2 formula, but Gemini, powered by Google's new Gemini Pro -- the company's largest LLM -- now answers the question accurately.

Also: Copilot Pro vs. ChatGPT Plus: Which is AI chatbot is worth your $20 a month?

Gemini also is not limited to a set number of responses. You can have long conversations with Google's Gemini, while Copilot is limited to five replies in one conversation. Even ChatGPT Plus limits users to 40 messages every three hours. 

2. You want the full Google experience

Google also incorporated more visual elements into its Gemini platform than those currently available on Copilot. Users can generate images using Gemini, upload photos through an integration with Google Lens , and enjoy Kayak, OpenTable, Instacart, and Wolfram Alpha plugins.

Also: 6 AI tools to supercharge your work and everyday life

Gemini is slowly becoming a full Google experience thanks to extensions that fold the wide range of Google applications into Gemini. Gemini users can add extensions for Google Workspace, YouTube, Google Maps, Google Flights, and Google Hotels, giving them a more personalized and extensive experience.

Artificial Intelligence

Chatgpt vs. copilot: which ai chatbot is better for you, copilot pro vs. chatgpt plus: which is ai chatbot is worth your $20 a month, what is copilot (formerly bing chat) here's everything you need to know.