Writing Prompt Story Starter: Bicycles


story starter

It’s a “prompt” story starter, this week!

I try to go and visit my elder daughter in Glasgow as often as I can.

We went out for a meal last time I was there — a treat at any time, but more so at this time, when so much of our time is spent at home.

Walking from the flat to the restaurant, we spotted these bikes.

What’s the story here, would you say?

Upcycling. Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue?

One bike which has seen better days, one which has been brought back to life with a little TLC.

Flowers in the basket. Flowers can have that effect, can’t they, bringing colour into any situation?

A rusty frame with a wobbly wheel. And where has the chain gone?!

Childhood bikes — gifts from Mr Claus, perhaps?

The freedom of having your own bike. Or your own motorbike? Or scooting around town on a Vespa? Well, until it rains, perhaps, which it had just done when we took this photo . . .

And talking of Vespas, we welcome “Friend” stories set in any country — and for the weekly, we welcome stories set in any time frame from Tudor onwards.

Do you have a story you’re keen to see in print? Click here to take a look at our submission guidelines. You never know, it might not be long until you’re a “Friend” Writer Of The Week!

If you liked the look of this Story Starter, but you want to see more, then click here to browse our archive.

Lucy Crichton

Fiction Editor Lucy is always on the look-out for the very best short stories, poems and pocket novels. As well as sourcing enjoyable content, she enjoys working with our established contributors, encouraging new talent, and celebrating 155 years of 'Friend' fiction!