“Now there is one outstandingly important fact regarding Spaceship Earth, and that is that no instruction book came with it.”

—Chapter 4 of “Operating Manual for Spaceship Earth” (1969)

In an ongoing attempt to jump-start your attempt to pen something uproariously funny, or at the very least amusing, here’s another jolt of inspiration for you creative types to use however you like.

It’s been a month since you received that IKEA Christmas gift from Grandma. You’ve opened the box and the parts all seem to be there. So why haven’t you assembled it? Maybe you’re having trouble reading the instructions?

For this prompt, write your own humorous instructions for any product. Proper usage of a bar of soap. How do you sneeze? Gene splicing? Teach us how to do something in the most ridiculous way possible. #HelpMePrompt

When you’ve finished, if you feel compelled, share your results (or a link to your results if they’re longer) in the comments. And if your story fits with our upcoming theme issue, “Winning,” consider submitting it for publication in National Pasquinade.

Happy writing.

 

“People watch three or four episodes at a time of their shows.”

—Idris Elba

In an ongoing attempt to jump-start your attempt to pen something uproariously funny, or at the very least amusing, here’s another jolt of inspiration for you creative types to use however you like.

Scripted television programs (and many unscripted “reality” programs) title each episode.

For this challenge, go to the Current Shows page on epguides.com. Pick any show listed and find an episode of that show that either (a) aired on your birthday in any year, or (b) the season and episode number match your birthday. For instance, if your birthday is December 3rd, the episode should have aired on 12/03 or the episode should be the third episode from season 12 (challenging when most shows only last a few seasons).

The title of this episode will be the title of your new funny story, preferably unrelated to the show or its characters. #EpisodesPrompt

When you’ve finished, if you feel compelled, share your results (or a link to your results if they’re longer) in the comments. And if your story fits with our upcoming theme issue, “Winning,” consider submitting it for publication in National Pasquinade.

Happy writing.