Writing allows us to reflect deeply on our journey, as individuals, as families, as community. This evocative photograph by Roy DeCarava has appeared in two Portland Art Museum exhibitions that each considered the meaning of journeys and transitions in very different ways, one through African American art and the Great Migration and the other through the photography of doorways, windows, and mirrors. Taking this photograph as inspiration, we invite you to spend some time today “time traveling” in your writing.
First, set a timer for 5 minutes and write whatever comes to mind when you hear the prompt:
Looking back…
Then, keep writing for another 5 minutes, using the prompt:
Right now…
Finally, spend a final 5 minutes writing, using the prompt:
Looking ahead…
Read through your whole piece and see what you notice.
Writing in community is powerful. We are grateful to our longtime partner Write Around Portland for the writing prompts and inspiration. You can revisit past Sunday posts and look for continuing weekly posts through the winter. Please share your work with us! @writearoundpdx @portlandartmuseum #RespectWritingCommunity #WriteAroundPAM
Roy DeCarava, Hallway, New York, 1953 (negative); 1982 (print), gelatin silver print, Museum Purchase: Caroline Ladd Pratt Fund, © Estate of Roy DeCarava, 87.23.2
