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IWW Practice-W Exercise Archives
Exercise: Trespassers Beware

These exercises were written by IWW members and administrators to provide structured practice opportunities for its members. You are welcome to use them for practice as well. Please mention that you found them at the Internet Writers Workshop (http://www.internetwritingworkshop.org/).

Prepared by Katherine Highcove
Posted on Sunday, November 12, 2017
Posted on Sunday, July 9, 2019
Posted on Sunday, June 25, 2023



In 400 words or less, write a scene in which a character must enter an
abandoned building. The old place might be a house, hotel, factory,
ship, cabin, hut, mansion, or store – in other words, any type of
empty old structure. Few people can remember who once owned or
occupied the building. The place has an aura of mystery and intrigue.

__________________________________

Most communities contain a derelict building that the locals regard as
an eyesore or a nuisance. Folks in town give such sites a wide berth
and tell their children to keep clear of the place. But sometimes,
under the right circumstances, an old structure might become an object
of interest.

Try to imagine what might compel someone to enter and explore a
deserted old ruin.

__________________________________

In 400 words or less, write a scene in which a character must enter an
abandoned building. The old place might be a house, hotel, factory,
ship, cabin, hut, mansion, or store – in other words, any type of
empty old structure. Few people can remember who once owned or
occupied the building. The place has an aura of mystery and intrigue.

__________________________________

In your critique, tell the writer what you found interesting,
intriguing, or believable in their SUB. Did the character(s) have a
good reason for entering the abandoned structure? Did the plot hold
your interest? Did the ending satisfy you? Why or why not?


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