Writing Prompt Story Starter: Happy New Year!


Shutterstock © new year

Bit early for new year, isn’t it?

Yes! I know we’re just in August, but here at the “Friend” we’re like time travellers . . . we live in the future.

That’s why at the moment we’re thinking of 2022.

As we know, New Year can cover lots of different story themes and tones.

Stories can be reflective or fun; about starting anew, or business continuing as usual!

New Year customs

There are also a number of customs that surround this time of year.

People in Denmark smash plates. In Brazil they eat lentils; in Spain they eat a grape every time the clock strikes at midnight.

Why not think about setting your New Year story somewhere else? No fireworks, no bubbly, but something else?

Perhaps your main character is working? They could be organising a party. Maybe they’re travelling and are in the sky when the New Year rolls around.

It doesn’t always have to be about champagne and nibbles either. Of course, not everyone celebrates on the 31st of December.

2022 is the Chinese Year Of The Tiger. That doesn’t begin until Tuesday, 1st of February.

A different view

Why not think about a different story that’s set around New Year?

Perhaps there’s been a theft or some other kind of mystery?

A story could be told from a junior viewpoint. They could be observing from the stairs as a party goes on below.

Perhaps you could look to the past when the occasion was very different to how it is now.


For more inspirational Story Starters, click here.

Did you know that subscribers receive their issues early? Click here for more information on subscribing to the “Friend” today.

Tracey Steel

Having worked on a number of magazines over the years, Tracey has found her perfect place on The Friend as she’s obsessed with reading and never goes anywhere without a book! She reads all the PF stories with a mug of tea close by and usually a bit of strong cheese too!