#1 The Haunting Season

Our Prompts contest has been inspiring writers every week since 2019 — but now, we’re adding a bonus contest that takes things to another level. For the first time, we’re giving writers a full month to respond to a single prompt, and just in time for spooky season too!

Write a short story (2,000 to 5,000 words) inspired by the prompt below, and stand a chance to win $1,500 and publication in our literary magazine, Prompted.

The winner and runners-up of this special edition contest will be announced in December 2026. Happy writing!