Astray. Adverb. Meaning to be away from the correct path or direction, much like being lost.
In our latest newsletter, It’s Looking Like a Lit Wave, we shared literary updates, submission opportunities, book reviews, and new releases to help you stay creatively inspired through the summer heat. One standout feature this week is our inspiration prompt, which invites writers to explore the emotional and creative terrain of being “still astray.”
🌡️ Why This Prompt?
Inspired by the haunting refrain from Stray Kids’ song “Lonely St.”, this prompt taps into the feeling of being unmoored—creatively, emotionally, or existentially. In the thick of a heatwave or a creative dry spell, it’s easy to feel directionless. But what if being “astray” isn’t a failure, but a form of freedom?
Sometimes, others only show support once you’ve nearly arrived at your destination or finally “made it.” But what if you’re still in the in-between? Do you welcome that support—or stand firm in your journey, even if it’s unfinished?
✨ Prompt: Still Astray
Write from the perspective of being “still astray.”
- What does it mean to be lost in a world that demands direction?
- Is being astray a failure—or a kind of freedom?
- What do we discover when we stop trying to arrive?
Whether you’re working on poetry, fiction, or creative nonfiction, let this be your invitation to explore the beauty and tension of the in-between.
🎧 Bonus inspiration:
Watch the “Lonely St.” music video by Stray Kids — a visual and lyrical journey through solitude, resilience, and self-direction.
If the idea of being astray doesn’t resonate with you, what does the music video inspire? What story do you see playing out? (Closed caption English subtitles are available if you want to follow the lyrics.) Or maybe this is your chance to learn more about this internationally composed Korean band.
📬 Want more prompts like this?
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Want to dig through past writing prompts? Discover more here.
