PEOPLE WATCHING 201

Most people enjoy people watching; for writers it's essential. Some people say good writing is 90% observation; some say good writing is 90% imagination. Both are true depending on what kind of writer you are. For this swap we'll go 50/50 so everyone can join the fun with both observation and imagination.

Those who were in the earlier people watching swaps will note we've moved to "201" so, you'll not be surprised that this time you are going to watch two people. As before, go someplace where you will see people you don't know, a mall, a restaurant, a store, a park, public transportation.

Pick out two people who are interacting somehow, preferably far enough away that you can NOT hear their conversation. It could be lovers, a mother and child, a clerk and customer, any two people of any ages doing something together.

As before write a page or so describing them, physical features, age, what they're wearing, and pay especial attention to their body language as they interact, describe the posture, gestures, expression on the face.

Then for the imagination part: write a conversation you think they might be having. Make the tone of the conversation appropriate for their body language. A page of conversation is good, if it turns into a little story, that's up to you.

I hope those who are doing these swaps will keep a notebook and maybe add to it as you're getting in the habit of really thinking about the strangers in your world.