When you’re a writer, it’s not easy to switch off. Even when I was on holiday, I found myself drawn to various characters – their mannerisms, actions, expressions, words, dialects, smells(!) etc. It’s these aspects of people’s characters which, if put into a short story or novel, bring them to life and make them real for the reader.
So if you’re going away soon, or even if you’re just stood in a queue at the supermarket, take a moment to people watch. Not only will it help you with your characterisation skills, overheard conversations, people’s behaviour etc are all good fodder for short story ideas.
Well, that’s my first week back and it feels as if I’ve never been away! Have a great weekend 🙂
Esther Chilton 
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