In this writing prompt inspired by Anne Lamott’s Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life, we explore the shared experience of school lunches.
Whether you brought your lunch, ate in the cafeteria, or went home, we all have memories to draw from.
Begin with a five-minute brainstorm, jotting down quick, unfiltered words or phrases about your school lunches.
If possible, choose one specific school lunch experience or memory to develop into a focused, detailed story. Allow the moment to unfold on the page.
This prompt reminds us that everyday experiences matter, and they connect us to one another. Please share your story with us in the comments section below, and let’s compare our lunches.
But always remember, the only way to do this wrong is to not do it at all!
Until next month, happy writing, everybody.
My school lunch story
Here is my contribution. I expanded it a little.
I would not have traded lunches with you, and certainly not schools. I laughed when I read “faint hint of meat, as if a ghost had wandered through it.” I especially liked that you didn’t scold your child for complaining about her bread, even though it might have been your first thought, just like the scoldings you received. You assured your daughter of a better life.
I don’t blame you for not wanting to trade lunches or schools with me.
Here’s my transcription from Tuesday night. Finished product somewhere down the line.
John, I loved the repetition of No Peanut Butter and Jelly in this piece. Your entire piece was told with the voice of a child. I liked that.
Everybody, including me, enjoyed your story. I think we all fixated on the “NO PPJ” part and I was surprised it wasn’t actually mentioned that much in your narrative. You should complete this.
Still pretty rough but I didn’t want to wait
Loved your piece. I wish I were attending your school. When you read my piece, you will know why. Your descriptions put me inside the school cafeteria. I found your paragraph about chasing girls charming and funny. Good job, Dave!