There is an old writer’s adage that is especially important for new writers to learn: “Write what you know.” It makes so much sense, and yet new writers so often resist this wisdom and instead launch out into projects that seem intriguing but are extremely difficult to accomplish for even the most seasoned authors. There is still a need for a taxing amount of imagination in writing a compelling story in a setting you are familiar with, let alone one that is totally foreign. You’ll have your hands full, but at least you’re on familiar territory.
If you pass out Big Macs, there is a story there. If you mow lawns on weekends, there is a story there. If you sell dresses at JC Penney’s you have lots of options for a good story line. Consider that mass murderers have shot up more than one fast food place, shoplifters with serious mental issues inhabit department stores, and it’s amazing the people and actions you can see going on in the neighborhood as you are raking and mowing lawns. Now you have an environment you can really envision. If you have problems and get stuck with your imagination, you can actually just go sit with your laptop and people-watch the patrons at the Golden Arches, or peek into a few front yards in your block for actions and ideas. Imagery details flow much easier and often ideas for action are played out right before your eyes. A little fictional twist here and there and suddenly you have a story.
What story lines have you imagined in your own little sphere of the world? What are favorite stories you've read that have obviously used this technique? Think about the great literary authors who have done this—Kate Chopin, Edith Wharton, Ernest Hemingway. Obviously this concept works! The world is full of stories--don’t think that the ordinary people and places of your life are off limits. Go write about them.
Now, don’t despair…you can still write about Rigillios Three if you really want to…but how about transporting those wacky McDonald’s regulars there?