Every year a spate of Christmas stories are written and published in a wide variety of magazines, on websites and on blogs. It’s a great opportunity for part-time writers to earn a few dollars. However, there is a sameness about so many stories published in the festive season. Stuck for new ideas? Humour works. Would-be writers might like to run with one of these writing prompts. Simply copy it out and keep writing.
Writing Prompt - The Christmas Crib
“I’m sorry, Mrs Tewksberry,” the Reverend Pottle said, “I don’t care if the idea was well received by the Parish committee and I don’t care if the children would think it cute. We are not putting a miniature bearded Santa Claus in the crib in the Nativity Scene, and that’s final!”
Writing Prompt - Santa's Sleigh
Santa Claus sniffed the air. Yes, he could definitely smell smoke. But surely no one would dare light a fire in a chimney tonight of all nights! One of the reindeers started to cough. The smoke was getting thicker. Santa turned around and stared. The smoke was curling up from one of the sacks of toys, and flames were starting to lick at the polished wood of the sleigh.
Writing Prompt - Let's Help Someone This Christmas
Old Sammy paused in his rummaging through the litter bin and stroked his whiskery face thoughtfully. He’d only found some cold French fries and a half-eaten hamburger.
“Hey, Smacka,” he called. “I got a feeling it’s Christmas Day. Not a lot of people about.”
His long-time drinking partner sat up from the park bench. “I think you might be right. Christmas, eh? Goodwill to all men and all that.”
“Yeah, I got an idea. Why don’t we do something nice for the rich folk for once.”
Writing Prompt - The Christmas Pageant
Mrs Arnold held her breath. The lowering of the Herald Angel on the wire had not gone well at rehearsal and now sixty anxious parents were hushed and anxious. The shepherds were seated on the ground looking up expectantly. What the hell was Mary-Jane doing up there?
Writing Prompt - Worthwhile Christmas Gifts
John Berger surveyed his family solemnly. “OK, family dinner conference about Christmas. I would like to propose that this year, instead of spending hundreds of dollars on gifts for each other, we make our gifts to starving children around the world.” The idea did not meet with instant approval. Twelve-year-old Mikey threw down his fork and yelled. “What about my X-box!” The four-year-old burst into tears.
Writing Prompt - Santa's Workshop
Eldric was not an elf to be messed with. As union organiser, he usually got what he wanted and today he wanted blood. “Three years without a pay rise! Ten days to go and the bearded fatso wants greater output. Well, we’ll give him ‘output’. We’re going out on strike. Down tools at mid-day sharp.”
While serious religious Christmas stories are also popular, there’s a brand new funny story here somewhere for the enthusiastic creative writer. It will be a simple matter to change some of the original prompt and make it your own. The author is pleased to offer these brief passages for public use. Merry Christmas!
