Each month we’ll offer a low-stakes, writing prompt applicable to all genres. This month, enjoy “If I Knew Then What I Know Now”—a prompt meant to spur a more reflective piece.

Upon completing the prompt, send your piece (500 words or less please) to chippewavalleywritersguild@gmail.com for potential publication in next month’s newsletter!

Without further adieu, “If I Knew Then What I Know Now”:

Scroll to the first photo on your phone (or, if you prefer, turn to the first page of your oldest photo album). Study the photo, recall all you can about the moment—the people pictured, the place preserved—and then begin your poem/story/essay with the line “If I knew then what I know now…”