The Story Drop

Welcome to The Story Drop — a space for new voices, bold ideas, and the stories that only you can tell.

Each season, I’ll drop in a visual image and a short prompt designed to spark your imagination. Think of it as a creative springboard designed to set your story in motion. From there, it’s over to you!

Submit a short story of no more than 1,500 words by the end of March 2026. The strongest entries will be selected to feature here on the website, giving you the chance to showcase your work to a wider audience.

Whether you’re polishing your craft, trying something new, or simply looking for an excuse to put pen to paper, The Story Drop is your invitation to step into the spotlight. I can’t wait to see what you’ll create.

AW 2025/26 STORY DROP

A young woman approaches an imposing stone building in the dead of night. She carries with her a sleeping infant. She lay the infant in a basket outside the building and then quietly walks away. This is the opening to you your story, which can be set in the past, present or future and can be taken in any direct you want.

✍️ Submission Guidelines

  • Format: Short story inspired by the current Story Drop image and prompt

  • Length: Maximum 1,500 words

  • Deadline: Friday 28th February 2026

  • How to Submit: Email your story as a Word attachment to with subject line: The Story Drop Submission – Your Name

  • Eligibility: Open to all unpublished and emerging writers. No AI or large language models to be used.

  • Selection: A small number of standout stories will be showcased on this website.

 Please note: by submitting, you confirm the work is your own and grant permission for it to be published on this site if selected. No usage of AI is permitted.

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