SPARKS Picking up the scent

In the third of a series of quick creative prompts for all ages, K. M. Lockwood gets a little sniffy . . .

Continuing with the senses, this week's suggestions are all about smell. Whether they are pleasant or not, odours have a powerful effect on most humans. They often bring back memories, and can quickly change a mood.

Reactions are unique: most people find lavender relaxing, yet I think it's zingy and refreshing! The smell of crystallized ginger reminds of my great-grandmother, but I really don't like hyacinths.

Smells can make a reader feel deeply. Here are a few ideas to enjoy even in lockdown.

Remembering 

• needs nothing but you, and won't disturb anyone!

Researching (Be careful. Wash your hands first – and check it's OK to do these.)

• Look round for any spices and herbs, fruit and vegetables.
• Try grinding or crushing any seeds, roots or bark in small amounts.
• Rub the skin of fruit or leaves.
• Have a smell when anything's being used.
• Maybe try perfumes, shower gels and aftershave?
• If you can get to a garden, park or wild area, try a (cautious) sniff at flowers, leaves and bark.

Reacting

• Do any remind you of something/someone?
• If the smell had a colour, what would it be?
• If the smell made a sound, what would it be?
• If you could touch it, what would it feel like?

Recording

• List/draw as many items that smell as you can.
• Use your colour, sound and texture ideas if you like.
• You could put them in groups of hot/warm/cold, pleasing/dull/disgusting – or any other way you can think of!
• Can you make a poem or a poster, or perhaps both at once? 

Header image by Vero Photoart on Unsplash

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K. M. Lockwood loves stories full of folklore, fantasy and fairytale influences. Happy hours are spent reading, editing and reviewing them – and writing her own in Tales from the Garret.

Twitter: @lockwoodwriter