Apps to Keep You Inspired as a Writer
Some time ago, I shared on Twitter–yup, I said Twitter–how I haven’t been feeling much like an author these days, thanks to writer’s block. It seems like no matter how many ideas I thought I had, by the time I was supposed to be putting them on the screen, my imagination vanished without a trace.
Keeping it one-hundred-and-ten, being unable to write had started getting to me. It wasn’t until I had a conversation with a friend who reminded me to think outside the box. Always up for a challenge, I hopped on my Zoom and immediately started looking for alternative ways to strike inspiration. Allow me to share a few of my favorites with you.
Sistah Girls, without further ado, here are seven apps to help keep you inspired as a writer.
Daily Prompt: Creative Writing
Okay, so I have only been on this app for a short amount of time; however, so far, I have no complaints.
Daily Prompt not only offers fun and imaginative prompts, Sistah Girls, they also have daily challenges! As I mentioned, I haven’t been on the app for too long, but what I can say is that if your competitive streak is anything like mine, Daily Prompt is an app that will challenge you to put your creativity to the test.
Raise your hand if you knew this one was coming, Sistah Girls (LOL).
What can I say, Pinterest is that app when it comes to putting physical imagery to the mental pictures in your mind.
Whether it be your characters, their houses, or even a cute little mood board, just about anything you can think of can be found on this app. Which, in my opinion, is a win-win for my writer bae’s who are visually inclined and those who are currently battling writer’s block.
Goodnotes
Growing up, Mama Latimore would often tell me that if there was something I desired, I needed to “write it down and make it plain.”
At my big age, I discovered that my mom’s advice for everyday life also worked in terms of stretching my creative capacity. Which is exactly why I consider Goodnotes to be among the elite for inspiration.
Being able to jot down literally every idea I have for a book has served me well, regardless of whether I use everything.
(Hint: The extra info/details could be the implementation of a whole different storyline).
Word Palette
The best way to describe this app would be: predictive texts meet intrusive thoughts. I know, I know… that sounds ludicrous.
But, hear me out!
Word Palette offers writers a variation of random words to help create a story from a prompt. And in case one of those words does not meet the mark, app users get the option to free-text out how they want to see the story unfold.
In my opinion, WP adequately does the job that AI is supposed to do–without compromising one’s artistic voice in the process.
Noisli
This one is for my writer baes who pen best when the vibes are set.
Noisli is an app that allows you to customize your own soundscape for the perfect writing environment. After dealing with life and people, and responsibilities daily, an app like this is the perfect way to clear your mind of anything that isn’t your WIP.
The LIT Lounge
Okay, so this one isn’t necessarily an app… but the illustrious Black Girls Who Write will forever be talked about when we’re talking inspiration in the Black Lit space.
The LIT Lounge offers writers a much-needed sanctuary. With regular check-ins, engaging bulletin conversations, hands-on workshops, and exclusive member perks, BGWW’s LIT Lounge is the perfect space for authors seeking both inspiration and a supportive community.
Music Streaming Apps
Yes Sistah Girls, it’s always going to be the music for me.
That’s because of the numerous books I have read (and even written) over the years, which have been inspired by song titles, verses, music videos, and so on.
I believe that music, much like math, is a language all people speak. What’s more, I have found that whenever words seem to fail me, the right song can always communicate it all.
That’s all from me this time Sistah Girls. Feel free to let me know if you use any of these apps yourself, or what apps you think I should try out.
Until next time, remember: “Art is not for the cultivated taste. It is to cultivate taste” – Nikki Giovanni (may she rest in peace).
Peace!
