I recently finished reading a novel called A Lesson Before Dying by Ernest J. Gaines for one of my English classes. Off topic, I’m taking two English classes for my final semester of community college. Sounds fun right (it’s fun but overwhelming)? Back on topic, the main character, Grant Higgins, must teach a young man named Jefferson how to be a man before he is executed for a crime he didn’t commit. I know most of you may have read this book so you know the outcome of what happens.
Today’s prompt is a bit unique and the events of this novel relates to what goes on in the media today involving young Black men such as myself. As you know from the novel, Jefferson is demonized by being called a hog. Grant does what he can to prove to Jefferson by telling him he’s not a hog.
We all have our moments when we feel like we’re not good enough or someone says something to us, out of anger and frustration usually, that gets under our skin. So for tonight’s final original prompt before the hiatus officially begins: Recall a time when you felt less than human. Did you fail a test? Did you make a mistake at work where your boss or co-worker made you feel upset? Did someone call you an animal or inhuman for any reason?
Let me know in the comments below or do pingback by linking my URL on your blog post.
The word length for this prompt is around 500 words or less. Try not to write about a story that’s too personal or hurtful to explain. I know it’s a bit contradictory, but if there are any stories that bring up old wounds or are too personal to share, you don’t have to.
Good night folks and keep on writing. I’ll see you soon!
Writing Prompts for Rookie Writers 
Often felt less than human in my previous work place- where I was demonized for things I didn’t do, just because I thought different from the crowd. Most people or crowds tend to congregate where they feel safest which is to go with the tide and let sleeping dogs lie. I chose different so I was penalized. The funny thing is if put in similar situations again, I would choose to do the same. People like me never learn !
This is good. It’s easy to feel that way. Sometimes people who feel they aren’t in synch with a crowd often keep to themselves. You have to learn when it’s okay to let sleeping dogs lie and when not to distance yourself. Overall, good job on the response.