Writing Prompt Story Starter: Edinburgh Castle


For this week’s story starter we’re giving you the wonderful Edinburgh Castle.


It’s not only imposing, but it’s quite the scene setter.

It lends itself to stories, or serials set in just about any era. The castle itself could feature in your story, or it could act simply as a backdrop.

 

Romance


What a way to meet someone! Perhaps your main character has visited Edinburgh during the world famous tattoo? There’s a way to bring evocative descriptions to your story. The sounds, the colours the people and music. It’s practically writing itself!

 

Cosy Crime


What a place to solve a mystery? The dark alleyways, the shadow of the castle or the imposing New Town provide a great opportunity for descriptions and a sense of place.

 

Period


Edinburgh is one of the most striking historical cities in the world, so do your research and make the era and people come alive for whatever genre you choose.

 

Location


How will your characters move and behave in a certain city during a certain season? Use the visuals around you to have them walk along the cobbled streets or enjoy the fabulous hotels and museums in your story. Are they local? This may provide a great deal of dialogue.

 

Settings


Edinburgh is famous for its New Year celebrations and its various festivals. Why not set your story around an up and coming young performer? Or perhaps a mystery set around a play or performance? A city can often prove to be as much of a character as your living ones. Its streets, people, buildings and history can help bring your story to life and help immerse the reader in the whole experience.

 

We have lots of inspiration to help you with your stories.

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!