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There is a stoic seriousness to the gaze of the lion, that combined with a confident unhurried grace, is why we call him king.

The lion and the savannah breathed together, for their spirits were the gold of this place.

The sunlight belonged to the lion as much as it did to the grass and the antelope. It warmed his fur to a soothing and steady temperature, bringing a serenity to his thoughts that encouraged dreaming all the more.

The paw print of the lion upon the savannah was God's poem to creation.

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English and Creative Writing Department

At staffordshire university.

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

This week, it is 123 years since the birth of CS Lewis (B. Nov 29th, 1898). Children’s Literature provides a fascinating lense through which to view social attitudes to childhood and to explore the development of fantasy literature as a form. Here at Staffs Uni, we take a look at Children’s literature from both a critical and a creative perspective.

CS Lewis’ best known novel, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe , was written in the immediate post-War years (1948/9) and published in 1950.

The seemingly escapist fantasy of the novel – with its talking animals and fairytale story elements – looks at first like an uncomfortable juxtaposition with the grim reality of a scarred and austere society seeking to re-build after the catastrophe of the war. However, there are many aspects of the narrative which reflect the time of its production. For example, the novel is a reflection on evacuation and its effects on children and the dislocation of family. These would have been familiar scenarios for child readers at the time of publication. It is a wartime narrative of children separated from parents – fathers at the front, women working for the war effort, fathers killed in action, parents killed in the Blitz. The children negotiate the world without adult supervision or authority. Now, this is a familiar trope that is familiar in everything from Alice to Swallows and Amazons , Enid Blyton, all the way to Harry Potter. The professor is a distant but comforting figure who is sympathetic to the children’s stories; he seems to understand children but not the wider social realm. He is a link between the world of fantasy and imagination and a primary or real world. In this respect, he is similar to the narrator who is also more concerned with the interests of children than the adult world. Finally, Turkish Delight reminds us that sweets, chocolate and biscuits were rationed into the 1950s and rationing didn’t entirely end until 1954, 9 years after the war had ended.

The most significant convention of children’s literature here is the movement between a primary world and one of fantasy or imagination. It is important to consider the journey through the wardrobe – this magical portal – as an ambiguous journey for the children, as both real and not real. It is significant, I think, that initially it is the younger children who are able to go through the wardrobe to Narnia. The balance between the children is interesting and symptomatic of some of the observations made by the critics whose definitions and approaches we have just looked at. We have two younger children and two older children, with a male and a female child in each. The older children take responsibility for their younger siblings, allowing the reader to see how the war is reshaping childhood and reshaping our understandings of knowledge and innocence. The younger children, however, have not lost their innocent trust in freedom and imagination, leaving them able to conjure other worlds. Does Narnia exist or do they encourage their big brother and sister to join them in a game so convincing it becomes real to them all?

The older children are caught between the world of adults and the world of children, while the younger children demonstrate the power of the childhood imagination over the rationality and diminishing creativity of adolescence and early adulthood. Equally, we see how gender roles are socially motivated and the ideologies of gender work at a very early stage in a child’s development.

The wardrobe – a portal between this world and another – is a familiar trope in children’s literature, from Alice’s looking glass (which gets an oblique reference here) to platform 9 and 3/4 in the Harry Potter novels. Here, the children travel from the corrupted world of war, violence and destruction to a wood – a natural world that should be a haven for them and provide protection. This, after all, is the Romantic view in children’s literature. The wood, in contrast to expectations, is itself riven by a battle between forces of good and evil and the children are forced to take sides and, crucially, take action to establish a moral principle. Again, a distinct echo of the real world beyond the wardrobe door and a recognisable one for the contemporaneous reader. The forces of good face an overwhelming and immoral foe who has all the characteristics of a charismatic and violent dictator. The animals of the wood along with their allies, the children, then become the plucky resistance able to challenge the occupation of the White Witch. There are, though, collaborators who must be punished at the end.

So Narnia becomes the site of negotiation of the adult world of conflict and the expectations that are to be placed on our central characters as they mature. In this natural fantasy realm the children face challenges that children should not face. They challenge evil in battle and become fair and just when called upon to rule. The parallel or fantasy world functions as an alternative or symbolic site through which issues of growing up, responsibility and good and bad are explored and negotiated.

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The Roaringly Interesting Literary Symbolism of Lions

Do you think lions should be loved or feared? Maybe a bit of both? Let’s explore this dichotomy in our literary and cultural history!

From the Neolithic cave paintings in France to the Egyptian statues of Sekhmet to Albrecht Dürer’s Samson Rending The Lion , these noble cats have had roles in nearly every major culture and civilization. While some civilizations feared them, others revered the lion as the king of all animals with its full mane and ferocious roar. As lions have been artistically represented for thousands of years, they have also held a prominent place in literature dating back to the Epic of Gilgamesh , one of the oldest epic poems. Although, if you are a bookish person of a certain age, you might be most familiar with the lion librarians Theo and Cleo from the children’s show Between The Lions .

Lions tread the line between protector and predator, and their literary depictions are no different. This liminal status is gold for storytellers, as they have the creative freedom to choose which aspect of a lion’s cultural reputation to emphasize in their narrative. Through discussing some of the most popular literary portrayals of lions today, we shall form our own opinions on whether literary lions should be feared or loved.

The most prominent qualitative association with lions in literature is their protective nature. Synonymous with bravery, confidence, and determination, lions are often seen as one of the most noble animals, which is why they have historically been used as symbols by kings, influential leaders, and countries around the world.

In keeping with this theme, lions are especially popular in fantasy literature. The Hogwarts House Gryffindor has a lion as a mascot to welcome all the brave young wizards studying there. Aslan from The Chronicles of Narnia serves as both the king and defender of Narnia, as well as a metaphor for Jesus of Nazareth, who is recorded as having led people with love instead of fear. Furthermore, the Cowardly Lion from The Wizard of Oz acts as an interesting subversion of the cultural interpretation of lions. While he eventually becomes brave over the course of the story, it is friendship and connection that allows the Cowardly Lion to overcome his fear.

It is also worth noting that many of the most famous lions in literature are male, whereas, in the wild, the lionesses are responsible for most of the hunting and caring for their young. In instances where the male lions of a pride are killed by rival outsider males, the invading males attempt to kill all the cubs in an attempt to get the lionesses in heat. However, female lions have been observed fighting to the death to protect their cubs from harm. While the idea of a maned lion roaring in the middle of the Serengeti on top of a rock is majestic in theory, it’s hard to beat the unconditional love inspired by a mother protecting her babies at all costs.

On the other hand, for every Mufasa, there is a Scar waiting in the shadows for the perfect time to pounce. Since lions are apex predators in terms of the ecological food web, they naturally inspire a healthy wariness in organisms that do not wish to die a painful death. With bravery and leadership skills comes a certain level of responsibility, and if one has the might and motivation to seize power for themselves, what is going to stop them from abusing it?

It is sometimes difficult to distinguish between the predator and the protector. In the Christian Bible , both Jesus and Satan are described as lions, but while Jesus is described as a lion who protects his people (Revelation 5:5; Hosea 11:10), Satan is a lion prowling for someone to devour (1 Peter 5:8). Despite being complete opposites in the Christian faith, the figures of Jesus and Satan are likened to an animal that fulfills both roles, thus highlighting the lion’s liminality.

While the lion is a carnivorous predator by nature, more recent trends in literature depict lions as seeking revenge or being used as weapons against their own predator: humans. In the short story “The Veldt” by Ray Bradbury, spoiled children in a high-tech house feed their parents to (formerly virtual) lions in their screen-filled nursery so their parents wouldn’t move them into the country. An extreme reaction from underdeveloped minds with too much screen time, sure, but the short story provides a disquieting interpretation of what could happen when the natural world rises against the man-made.

In the James Patterson novel Zoo , animals are becoming more aggressive due to their pheromones being altered by excessive cell phone use and motorized transportation. As a catalyst for the credibility of his research on mammal attacks against humans, biologist Jackson Oz survives a lion attack in Botswana that killed over 100 people. While the lions aren’t the main focus of the narrative, it is interesting to see how they play a role in how humans fear them almost as much as they fear one another. After all, when everyone is fighting for survival, one organism’s protector is another’s predator.

Final Thoughts

Today, the largest threat to the continual existence of lions is human activity. Through poaching and the removal of lion habitats, we risk endangering the 20,000-25,000 lions left on the planet . While we can revere the nobility of lions from a distance, it is also important that we protect these predators as they continue to balance ecosystems and reign over the animal kingdom.

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10 Words to Describe a Lioness

By Rebecca Parpworth-Reynolds

Are you writing characters that are a pride of lions in your book? Would some words to describe a lioness come in handy? Scroll down to learn more!

1. Fearless

Showing no fear or trepidation.

“Despite the sheer size of the water buffalo, the lioness was fearless in her pursuit.”

“Contrary to popular belief, it is the lionesses who are the fearless protectors of the pride.”

How it Adds Description

“Fearless” helps you to illustrate how brave the lionesses in your story are, often facing up against staggering odds in order to protect those around them and their young. It can help your readers to really root for the lioness, or feel scared for any other characters who may come up against them!

2. Hardworking

Placing a lot of effort and care into one’s work.

“Hunting for the pride’s food and looking after its cubs, it is hard not to see lionesses as some of the most hardworking beasts in the animal kingdom.”

“It was hard having a mother that was one of the highest ranking and hardworking in the entire pride. She had a big reputation to live up to.”

Lionesses do a lot for their pride, including most of the hunting and the childcare. Show how diligent they are by describing them as “hardworking”. This also can help to show how much they do that other characters in your story might not fully appreciate or realize!

3. Huntress

A female person or animal that hunts other animals for food or sport.

“The lioness is the epitome of a huntress , sleek, stealthy, and ruthless.”

“If you are looking for the top huntress on the savannah, the lioness is a worthy candidate when backed up with the rest of her sisters.”

“Huntress” not only shows the activity of the lioness but also has connotations of power and grandeur. It can help to set your lioness apart from the other animals in your story and also show the sheer skill that they have when stalking their prey.

• Healthy; able to move and bend with ease.
• Graceful in movement.

“The lithe silhouette of the lioness slinked through the long grass of the savannah.”

“ Lithe movements helped the lioness to keep up with the antelope, adapting to its pace and change of direction with ease.”

“Lithe” demonstrates the agility of a lioness, but also the ease and grace they have when they are moving about. Lionesses are almost fluid in their movements, especially when pacing or stalking prey, and “lithe” will help you illustrate this to your reader.

5. Maternal

Displaying motherly behavior.

“At the sound of her cub in trouble, the fierce maternal instincts of the lioness sprung into action.”

“The maternal bond between lioness and cub helps them to be able to survive any hardship.”

Lionesses are some of the fiercest mothers out there, and so you can describe their actions and motives as “maternal”. It may even be that they show this motherly instinct towards another animal or character in your story, or show the lengths they will go to to protect their little ones.

6. Powerful

• Having a lot of power and strength.
• Having a strong effect on others.

“The lioness’s powerful jaws sunk into the neck of the antelope.”

“The lioness moved towards them with powerful , purposeful strides. He was incredibly thankful for the plexiglass window that separated them.”

“Powerful” can not only help to show the physical strength of the lioness in your story but also the effect and influence that they have on others. For example, their presence can be enough to have other characters quaking in their boots!

7. Protective

Wanting to shield someone from harm because of an emotional bond.

“Even when faced with unthinkable odds, the lioness remained fiercely protective of her cubs until the end.”

“She stepped in front of the cubs, her fur puffing up and her hackles raising in a protective stance.”

Show the relationship between your lioness and those that she holds dear by describing them as “protective”. This not only helps to show your reader the level of control she has over those that she cares about but can help to show the lengths they will go to keep them from harm.

• Feeling better or more important than others.
• Feeling positive because of a personal or group achievement.

“The proud and noble lioness stood tall in the long grass.”

“She could not help but feel proud as she looked on at her family. Everyone was well fed, strong, and healthy, with no threat from any rival lion pride.”

A group of lions is called a pride, and for good reason! These animals exude confidence and an air of superiority over others, so to describe a lioness as “proud” wouldn’t be all that crazy of a notion! It can also help to display to your reader how your lioness feels about their situation, especially when oftentimes this is a group effort between all the lionesses.

9. Prowling

Moving quietly so as not to be seen or heard.

“ Prowling stealthily through the undergrowth, the zebra didn’t know the lioness was there at all until it was upon him.”

“A prowling predator such as the lioness works with the other females of the pride to coordinate their attack.”

“Prowling” helps you to show to your reader the quiet and stealthy movement of a lioness when they are hunting. Not only that, but it can also illustrate a sense of deviousness if the lioness in your story is more of a villainous character.

Possessing the qualities of royalty .

“There was something so regal and majestic about the way that the lioness held herself on the dusty rock.”

“Even though they lack the resplendent mane of their male counterparts, the regal nature of a lioness still makes them the queen of the jungle.”

Lions are often associated with royalty, and you can reflect this in your writing by describing your lioness as “regal”. This can not only reflect their power and status in your story but also the way that they move with both grace and strength.

The Lion’s Prey

• November 26, 2013

The Lion’s Prey

Adil ihsan (edgbaston).

Swaying in the gentle breeze of the African savannah, the long yellow grass hid the lion from the view of the naked eye. His auburn mane protruded from around his large face. The golden coat that encased his body was sleek and shiny, but the grass that towered above the crouched African king of the jungle shielded him from sight. Glistening white teeth gleamed under the baking heat of the sun. His pointed claws jutted out of his front paws that were outstretched in front of him. However, his dark eyes stared ahead intently, at the waterhole.

The menacing eyes flashed with sudden interest. The predator had caught sight of a stooping gazelle sipping gently from the water. The gazelle’s plump body was tinted with a rich caramel colour that was highlighted in some places as a touch of baby pink. Chocolate coloured horns that were ringed with white were gently dipped into the water as the gazelle continued to drink. The lion’s mouth watered and drops of spittle indicating his hunger dripped on the ground. Bending his hind legs, the lion roared and leapt.

The gazelle didn’t need to see what it was, it just ran. The lion roared again whilst directly behind the gazelle. Hooves pattering against the mud made the lion’s hunger intensify as the gazelle led him into the forest. The sunlight was immediately blotted out as the dark green leaves that came from the enormous trees that were dotted everywhere. Moss covered ground was lush and flowers blossomed. Springs of water fell and birds swooped through the sky. Oblivious to the beauty surrounding him, the lion’s gaze remained fixed on his prey. Darting on, the evident lack of stamina began to show through the gazelle and it began to slow down. Knowing that it was time, the lion pounced. Thrusting his energy from his hind legs, the lion  jumped up into the air directly over the gazelle. Poised perfectly, the lion fell – claws first – into the gazelle and brought it to the ground. The claws that were dug into the gazelle’s sides did not move once, not until blood began to ooze out. After making sure the gazelle was dead, the lion dragged its lifeless body back to his pack, knowing they were in for a feast.

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Animal Writing Prompts: Explore Creatures Through Words

My name is Debbie, and I am passionate about developing a love for the written word and planting a seed that will grow into a powerful voice that can inspire many.

Priming Your Imagination: Unleash Your Creativity with Animal Writing Prompts

Exploring the animal kingdom: using writing prompts to discover fascinating creatures, connecting with nature: engage with wildlife through animal writing prompts, crafting compelling characters: using animal writing prompts to develop unique protagonists, why should you consider animal-inspired metaphors, from fact to fiction: transforming animal facts into captivating stories, delving into animal emotions: exploring the depths of creature narratives through writing prompts, frequently asked questions, closing remarks.

Need a boost of inspiration to ignite your creative writing? Look no further! Our animal writing prompts are designed to transport you to the captivating world of furry, feathered, and scaly creatures. Whether you’re an aspiring writer or simply enjoy the art of storytelling, these prompts will unleash your imagination and bring out the hidden wordsmith in you.

Dive into the wildlife kingdoms or explore the depths of your imagination as you channel your thoughts into captivating stories, poems, or even journal entries. Let the animal writing prompts be your guide as you embark on an adventure where the boundaries of reality blend with the magic of your words.

• Spark your creativity: Our collection of animal writing prompts is carefully crafted to ignite your creativity by offering unique and thought-provoking scenarios . From describing the daily life of a mischievous squirrel to imagining a conversation between two unlikely animal pals, these prompts will push the boundaries of your imagination.
• Unleash unlimited possibilities: With animal writing prompts, the possibilities are boundless. Choose your protagonist from a diverse range of animals and spin tales that span across different genres. Whether you want to embark on a quest with a heroic lion or craft a suspenseful mystery with a curious cat, the power to explore limitless storylines is entirely in your hands.
• Connect with emotions: Animals have the ability to evoke a wide range of emotions within us. Our animal writing prompts encourage you to tap into these emotional connections and craft narratives that stir both the heart and the mind. Discover the bittersweet complexities of a hummingbird’s journey or delve into the loyalty of a faithful dog, allowing your readers to feel a deep connection with your characters.

When it comes to unraveling the mysteries of Mother Nature, few things capture our curiosity like the diverse and captivating creatures that inhabit our planet. From the humblest insects to the mighty apex predators, the animal kingdom is an endless source of fascination. By utilizing writing prompts , we can embark on a thrilling journey of exploration and discovery, delving deeper into the lives of these incredible beings that share our world.

Writing prompts offer a unique opportunity to delve into the intricacies of the animal kingdom. They encourage us to research, reflect, and express our understanding in a creative and engaging manner. Whether it’s imagining the world from the perspective of a migratory bird or pondering the survival strategies of nocturnal creatures, writing prompts prompt us to think critically and expansively about the animals that surround us.

Looking for a creative way to connect with nature and engage with wildlife? Look no further! Our animal writing prompts are designed to inspire your imagination and help you dive deep into the world of animals. Whether you’re an aspiring writer or simply enjoy the therapeutic benefits of writing, these prompts will ignite your creativity and bring you closer to the wonders of the natural world.

Exploring habitats: Discover the awe-inspiring beauty of different habitats and the unique animals that call them home. From the lush rainforests of the Amazon to the icy tundra of the Arctic, these prompts will transport you to the heart of these habitats and allow you to visualize the sights, sounds, and smells of each location. Immerse yourself in the wonders of the world, from the vibrant mosaic of a coral reef to the vast expanse of a savannah, and let your words paint a vivid picture that captures the essence of these habitats.

Celebrating animal diversity: Animals come in all shapes, sizes, and colors, each with their own fascinating characteristics and behaviors. Explore the incredible diversity of the animal kingdom through our writing prompts. Dive into the intriguing world of exotic creatures like the graceful cheetah or the playful dolphins and imagine their lives and interactions. Step into the shoes of endangered species and raise awareness about their plight, or create mythical creatures inspired by the natural world. The possibilities are endless, and these prompts will guide you in celebrating the beauty and complexity of wildlife.

Creating memorable protagonists is essential in captivating readers and bringing your story to life. One effective way to develop unique and engaging characters is by using animal writing prompts. By exploring the behaviors, traits, and characteristics of various animals, you can infuse your protagonists with depth, complexity, and relatability.

Here are a few ways animal writing prompts can help you craft compelling characters:

• Unveiling distinct personalities: Animals possess a wide range of personalities, from cunning foxes to loyal elephants. By emulating these traits in your protagonist, you can give them an intriguing personality that readers will connect with.
• Depicting physical attributes: Animals have unique physical features that can shape your character’s appearance, such as a lion’s majestic mane or a peacock’s vibrant feathers. Incorporating these distinctive traits can boost your character’s visual appeal and make them stand out.
• Exploring instincts and behaviors: Animals exhibit fascinating instincts and behaviors that can add depth to your characters. Whether it’s a wolf’s pack mentality or a spider’s web-spinning prowess, integrating these elements can reveal intriguing aspects of your protagonist’s personality and motivations.

By utilizing animal writing prompts, you can unlock a world of inspiration to create protagonists that are captivating, multi-dimensional, and leave a lasting impression on your readers. So, embrace the wild and let the animal kingdom guide your character development!

Unlocking the Magic of Metaphor: Enhance Your Writing with Animal-inspired Descriptions

In the world of writing, words have the power to transport readers to new dimensions. One of the most captivating tools at a writer’s disposal is the use of metaphors. Metaphors allow us to paint vivid pictures by comparing one thing to another. And what better way to unlock the magic of metaphor than by drawing inspiration from the fascinating animal kingdom?

Animals possess unique characteristics that can add depth and richness to our words. Whether it’s the fierce determination of a lion, the graceful elegance of a swan, or the resilient nature of an ant, incorporating animal-inspired descriptions can effortlessly enhance your writing. By using metaphors that evoke the essence of different animals, writers can captivate their audience, evoke emotions, and create a more engaging experience.

• Vibrant imagery: Animals offer a palette of vibrant images that can bring your writing to life. By describing a character as having the agility of a cheetah or the cunning of a fox, readers will easily visualize the traits you’re trying to convey.
• Emotional resonance: Animals often evoke strong emotions in us, and when carefully chosen, animal metaphors can have a similar effect on readers. An innocent doe standing in a meadow can symbolize vulnerability, while the gracefulness of a dolphin leaping through the waves can evoke feelings of freedom and joy.
• Symbolism and cultural references: Animals hold significant symbolic meanings across various cultures and literary traditions. By using animal-inspired metaphors, writers can tap into these universal symbols and add layers of depth and meaning to their work.

Unlock the power of metaphor by exploring the vast animal kingdom. Enhance your writing with the enchanting allure of animal-inspired descriptions as you embark on a journey to captivate and enthrall your readers.

When it comes to creating captivating stories about animals, there is a wealth of fascinating facts waiting to be transformed into tales that will captivate readers young and old. By converting these facts into engaging fiction, we have the power to transport our audience into a world filled with extraordinary creatures and imaginative adventures.

One effective way to transform animal facts into captivating stories is by anthropomorphizing the animals. Giving human traits, such as emotions and personalities, to the animal characters adds depth and relatability to the story. This allows readers to connect with the characters on an emotional level, making the narrative more engaging. For example, instead of a simple description of how a cheetah runs, we can create a character who dreams of being the fastest in the animal kingdom and embarks on a thrilling race against other creatures.

• Create a unique world: To truly captivate readers, it’s essential to build a unique world where animals live, interact, and face challenges. This can be a fantasy realm, an altered version of our own world, or even a completely imaginary universe. Use vivid descriptions, rich imagery, and attention to detail to transport readers to this new reality.
• Weave in moral dilemmas: Exploring ethical and moral questions is a powerful way to engage readers. By integrating dilemmas into the animal characters’ journeys, such as choosing between personal gain or helping others, we can not only entertain but also foster empathy and critical thinking.

So, let your imagination run wild, and let the animal facts inspire you to create captivating stories filled with wonder, excitement, and meaningful messages. By transforming facts into fiction, we can open up a world of possibilities that will leave readers eager to embark on animal-centric journeys time and time again.

Animals are often portrayed as mysterious creatures with their own internal worlds and emotions. Writing about animal emotions can provide a unique perspective into the depths of their narrative and offer a deeper understanding of their complex lives. Through the use of writing prompts, we can delve into the rich tapestry of animal emotions and explore the fascinating stories that lie within.

Writing prompts can serve as powerful tools to unlock our creativity and imagination. They can help us step into the shoes of animals, allowing us to empathize with their experiences and emotions. By using prompts specifically designed to explore animal emotions, we can challenge ourselves to think beyond our own human perspectives and embrace the vast array of emotions that exist in the animal kingdom.

• Discover the hidden stories: Writing prompts can help us uncover the untold tales of animals, shedding light on their experiences and emotions. Through imaginative storytelling, we can bring their narratives to life.
• Develop empathy: Stepping into the perspectives of animals can foster empathy and compassion. By understanding their emotions, we can better advocate for their well-being and create a deeper connection with the natural world.
• Expand our understanding: Exploring animal emotions through writing prompts allows us to broaden our knowledge and challenge preconceived notions. It opens our minds to the diverse range of emotions and experiences that animals possess.

So, grab a pen and paper, or your preferred writing tool, and embark on a journey into the intricate tapestry of animal emotions. Through writing prompts, we can engage our imaginations, give voice to the voiceless, and uncover the captivating narratives that exist within the animal kingdom.

Q: What are animal writing prompts? A: Animal writing prompts are creative ideas or topics that revolve around animals, encouraging writers to explore and express their thoughts and ideas through words.

Q: Why should I use animal writing prompts? A: Animal writing prompts provide an exciting platform to ignite your imagination and creativity. They allow you to delve into the fascinating world of animals, discover their unique characteristics, and develop your writing skills.

Q: How can animal writing prompts be beneficial? A: Animal writing prompts can stimulate your creative thinking by prompting you to observe and appreciate the diversity of the animal kingdom. They enhance your descriptive writing abilities and help you develop a deep understanding of animal behavior and traits.

Q: Who can benefit from animal writing prompts? A: Animal writing prompts are suitable for anyone with an interest in animals, whether you are an aspiring writer looking to practice your skills, a student seeking inspiration for an assignment, or simply someone who enjoys exploring the natural world through writing.

Q: What kind of topics can be covered in animal writing prompts? A: Animal writing prompts can focus on a wide range of topics, such as describing the appearance of a specific animal, imagining the life of a rare species, creating a fictional story based on animal characters, or even expressing emotions and perspectives from an animal’s point of view.

Q: Are animal writing prompts only for fiction? A: No, animal writing prompts are not limited to fiction. They can be equally valuable for nonfiction writing, encouraging you to research and share your knowledge on various animal-related subjects, like environmental conservation, animal behavior, or even personal experiences with animals.

Q: Can animal writing prompts be used for educational purposes? A: Absolutely! Animal writing prompts can be a fantastic tool for educators to engage students with the natural world and develop their writing skills. They can be incorporated into lesson plans, creative writing exercises, or as a means to explore scientific concepts in an engaging way.

Q: Where can I find animal writing prompts? A: Animal writing prompts can be found in various sources, such as writing blogs, educational websites, or creative writing books. Additionally, numerous online writing communities offer platforms where writers can share and find animal-related prompts to spark their creativity.

Q: Any tips for using animal writing prompts effectively? A: Certainly! To make the most out of animal writing prompts, it’s essential to embrace your curiosity and take the time to research and observe animals. Use vivid imagery and sensory language to bring your ideas to life. Don’t be afraid to explore various genres and experiment with different perspectives to unleash your creativity.

Q: Can animal writing prompts be used for group activities? A: Yes, animal writing prompts can be fantastic for group activities. They can be used as discussion-starters, collaborative storytelling exercises, or as prompts for group writing projects. Exploring animals through words together can foster teamwork, encourage diverse perspectives, and create an enjoyable and educational experience.

Incorporating animal-themed writing prompts allows us to delve into the fascinating world of creatures, fostering creativity and enhancing our understanding of the animal kingdom. So, let your imagination soar and discover the power of words in illuminating our connection with these majestic beings.

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Welcome to Creative Writing Prompts

At Creative Writing Prompts, we believe in the power of words to shape worlds. Our platform is a sanctuary for aspiring writers, seasoned wordsmiths, and everyone. Here, storytelling finds its home, and your creative journey begins its captivating voyage.

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6 Creative Writing Pieces You Need To Read Today

Over the past few months, Nottingham Trent University have been working in association with Broadway Cinema, Writing East Midlands and Nottingham UNESCO City of Literature to host talks and critical-creative writing workshops that explore contemporary issues: from race and sexuality, to discovering life on Mars. The event series was called Re:Vision, and attendees have been crafting loads of work over the duration, so here’s a selection of the goods for you to sample…

We moved to Nottingham in the summer of 1970 to Shearing Hill in Gedling. My father started his new job at Trent Polytechnic as a lecturer in special needs education. He had a small office in the sixties monstrosity called York House. I remember staring up from a new Victoria Centre, trying to locate his room from rows of bland windows among the seven stories. When you went inside and passed to the rear of the reception area, there were crude silver fairground carriages that passed for lifts, which jolted you to a whoosh from a vacuum cleaner. Once I met him from work. He took me across Mansfield Road for fish and chips at Queen’s Fish Bar. Unlike York House it’s still there, though under new management and with a new name. Over the table, he told me about how students were smoking marijuana and scrawling swastikas in the toilets. It was chaotic and exciting to me, but Dad seemed to think it was a problem. Then he was relocated to the Clifton site and York House became a ghost looming over my changing teenage years. A stuck symbol once charged with vitality and promise, now threatening to stomp on the iconic Rose of England pub. In his later years, we’d meet in a vegetarian café in Hurt’s Yard: a tight alley, one of several connecting Market Square to Upper Parliament Street. This alley didn’t actually go anywhere, it just ended in a concrete courtyard looked down upon by a solicitor’s and hair dressing salon. After we’d eaten, I’d wait for him to come out of the toilet. I’d stare at a big, colourful map of the world on the wall and wonder how we ended up here.  By Neil Deakin

Deserted Identity

I get asked repeatedly if I speak Arabic. Growing up, I always felt indifferent to the idea of being allowed to really understand the language. Outside of school, I was an expat, a foreigner: white. Only seen to know inshallah or perhaps counting to ten: wahid, ithnaan, thalaatha, arba'a, khamsa, sitta, saba’a, thamania, tiss'a, ashra. Looking back, it’s gone. The opportunity to extend my mother tongue, to allow new voices to tone my teeth, to ravel ancient sayings, defining my lips like dunes woven within wadi, to be able to speak from foreign lands, tracing the Middle East on my skin, where desert sunrises caramelised my hair, medjool palms sweetened my mouth – it’s gone. I looked to French, Spanish, German as languages that I could grasp, based on British boundaries restricting my knowledge to these cultures, as my passport spelt my name over red-locked immigration folders. I am transported to my home away from home when as-salaamu-alaikum, wa-alaikum-as-salaam echoes around the shop corner. These words send fear through the city in which I now live. I have to remind others of the translation: “Peace be upon you, upon you be peace”, but in response, side-eyed glances scream “terrorist”, withering palms beg to scissor a forefinger to the next exit of “back to your country.” How can I have a country to own me if I am not even labelled Saudi based on people’s perception of my skin, and not British based on the short time I have lived here? As a child, I was shown that women had to cover up with black sheets clipped to their shoulders draping onto the ground, disguising the shape of their hips as easily as the words they didn’t say through their lips. I now use my voice to speak my own, and for the women who cannot. By Meegan Worcester

A Beam of Light

The house next door is no longer empty; it’s occupied by people foreign to me. They arrived at 9:17pm with loud noises and loud language and amidst their racket was the sound of a baby, squawking to itself. I assume it was a baby, I’ve seen no sign of livestock. This morning at half past eight, I stepped outside for my morning dose of polluted air and the newspaper. One of them was sitting on his front stoop, smoking a cigarette. He had thick black hair, hazel eyes and wore a white t-shirt with a penny shaped hole below the collar. I turned left, though I needed to go right, and he spoke. “Hello! Hello Mister!” I shuffled on, but he was a persistent bugger. “Hi Mister, please, how are you?” I turned back, lifting the corners of my mouth into a smile, the pressure making my forehead twinge. “Hello,” I replied, hoping that would do. “Hi,” he beamed. I’d always wondered what this description of a smile looked like, and now I knew. “I am Amir. And you?” “I am Herbert Walters, pleased to meet you,” I lied. “Her-Bert,” he said carefully, “Heeer…Beert.” “Yes, just Herbert will do, thank you,” I said. “I must get on.” “Oh, please meet my wife!” he said, standing and presenting his open front door as though I’d won an adventure. “Oh, no, no, no,” I said. “Oh, please, please, please!” he said. I don’t know what came over me, but suddenly I was in his hallway. I vaguely thought to myself that his beam must have disarmed me and made me stupid. Amir nudged me towards the kitchen where the radio was playing that type of Arabian music that’s in a hurry to reach its destination. I saw that the kitchen was beige and the ceiling had signs of damp. A small yellow table was the only thing of brightness in there until I crossed the threshold and found myself staring at a woman with curls peeking out from the edges of her headscarf, dancing on the peeling lino, swooshing and swishing her arms about in the air. The baby she was holding had thrown its small bald head backwards and was laughing in that way babies do, like animated clef notes bouncing along on a sheet of music. The woman saw me and halted, her cheeks rosy and her eyes shining. “Hello,” she beamed. “Hello,” I replied. “Annie, this Her-Bert,” said Amir,” “Her-Bert, this Annie my wife and Hannah my baby,” he said. “Oh,” I said, startled into thinking about my wife, Hannah, who I had gotten good at not thinking about for a few months now. There was still the odd moment, like on Monday when I’d found one of her bobby pins behind the dresser and I’d spent the afternoon remembering the way her hair would fall in waves to the tips of her ears when she let it down at night. “Please sit,” said Annie, “I make you tea.” I don’t know why I didn’t tell her I’d already had tea and that my second cup was usually at eleven on the dot. Instead, I sat on a rickety wooden chair and Annie placed the baby in my lap, telling her, “Hannah, this Grandfather Her-Bert. Say hello.” On command, the baby gurgled at me and grabbed at the button on my shirt pocket. “Hello Hannah,” I said softly, and she beamed at me. By Sarah Daoud

The Things We Share

I do not know where my papers are, thieved in the night whilst I lay mute in the belly of a boat from which we crept at dawn to a wordless roar, surf hurling itself at the slick dark rocks. Is this the same sea as our sea? My left shoe is gritty – the betrayal that let in bits of beach might have been forgiven if only it were both. Now grit grows sore between two toes, chafes, blisters, bleeds. Is this the same sand as our sand? A man gives me a thing called plaster, a pink skin of a thing that sticks flesh on flesh: sand, sea, flesh – all these things we share.   By Lauren Colley

A moment of Bilingual

A mute gesture

Carries hundreds of words flying around

                Strokes                                

                                Characters

                Dui

Mo leng liang ke

                                Ambiguous

                                Cha bu duo,cha bu duo,cha bu duo...

---I am a new me

When my tongue reaches a different curl…

Stroke: Stroke order refers to the order in which the strokes of a Chinese character are written. A stroke is a movement of a writing instrument on a writing surface. Dui: Correct in Chinese Mo leng liang ke: Ready to accept either in Chinese Cha bu duo: Almost in Chinese By Shaouhi He

Gradually the total blackness lifts – gentle blue-grey light moving to brighter tones. In each cubicle, the pillows inflate and tilt as the women are raised to a sitting position. Hydration machines bleep softly while waste is swiftly syphoned away through stainless steel pipes that travel deep underground. Twenty-five kilometres away, at the control centre, the duty officer checks each monitor. Once the status of each inhabitant has been verified, screens turn on in each cubicle. In cubicle 57B, patient 4528TM regards her menu board. Good morning 4528TM. Today is your birthday. You have reached your 167th year. Congratulations! An additional daily supplement will be added to your nutridrip. The cost of the above will be subtracted from the value of your estate. Your assets will allow your continued level of support for 234 more days. Today, in recognition of your birthday, the following treats will be rotated for the next 12 hours.

• pictures of cake
• virtual candle blowing experience
• the sound of party poppers and champagne corks
• traditional happy birthday song

The above will be in addition to any options you might choose from the regular menu and will not incur any additional cost. The woman in the next cubicle, patient 7634ZT, is unaware that her neighbour has reached another milestone. She is much younger, having only achieved her century a couple of years earlier. Unlike most of the women, she is still capable of independent movement, although she finds this a cause for frustration rather than freedom. She has only recently been moved to the institution, the doctors convinced that the sharpness of her mind will soon be reduced once the daily regime of property programmes, mindfulness exercises and tranquilising drugs are allowed to take hold. But for now, she still remembers the love and banter of friendship, the taste on her tongue of food and wine, the fulfilment of a piece of work well done, the joy of independent living. She thinks of her children and grandchildren and of her soon-to-be-born great grandchild. She thinks of them with love and longing, but she is resigned to her fate. The last ten years have been hard – new knees and hips helped, but she had never expected to have to work until she was ninety-two. For eight years she has been able to keep living at home, but her heart is tired and she does not have any money left to pay for a replacement. Her family live far away and cannot be released for caring duties. The only option left was to move here, to the exit hostel where she will remain until her funds run out. She would prefer to take the drugs now but, despite the many petitions and impassioned speeches from her generation, the law remains unchanged. No-one is permitted to leave any part of their estate to their children or grandchildren. Once funds run out, drugs are administered as a matter of course. Her assets will allow her 21 more days. She is not afraid to die. But she is sad that she will not meet her great-grandson. In the next cubicle, patient 4528TM stares at the screen, which shows an elaborate birthday cake sizzling under the combined heat of 167 blue candles. In a rare moment of lucidity she recognises that she feels strangely weak, unstable. She closes her eyes. The machine that monitors her heartbeat falters, emits an urgent bleep then falls suddenly silent. At the control centre, a bored duty officer registers the death, noting that there are 233 days of finance still available. She allocates it randomly to a patient in the same centre before checking the personal details of patient 4528TM. She is surprised to see that this was a woman who had once been a leader of a political party that had been influential in the twentieth century and the first quarter of the twenty-first century. She plans to mention it to her grandmother who might remember the name. But by the time she has set the program to release the body to the exit incinerator, she has forgotten what the name was. By Julie Gardner

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Lion Creative Writings Samples For Students

4 samples of this type

WowEssays.com paper writer service proudly presents to you an open-access directory of Lion Creative Writings meant to help struggling students deal with their writing challenges. In a practical sense, each Lion Creative Writing sample presented here may be a pilot that walks you through the important phases of the writing procedure and showcases how to develop an academic work that hits the mark. Besides, if you require more visionary help, these examples could give you a nudge toward a fresh Lion Creative Writing topic or inspire a novice approach to a threadbare theme.

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Free Fantasy And Childrens/Adolescents Needs Creative Writing Example

C. S. Lewis’ “The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe”

Therapeutic Metaphor Creative Writing Examples

Creative writing on the lion and the flamingo.

One hot morning in Sua Pan, Mr Flamingo was standing in the wetland, preening his feathers. It was the wet season in Botswana, and the overnight fall had created the perfect level for Mr Flamingo to enjoy himself.

He looked at his reflection in the pool. ‘Oh my,’ he sang, ‘I am the most beautiful bird there ever was. My feathers are pinker and shinier than any other flamingo’s.’

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Example Of Creative Writing On Baths Wife

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Describing Words for Lions: Examples and Adjectives

Lions, the majestic kings of the animal kingdom, are truly awe-inspiring creatures. From their powerful presence to their regal mane, lions have captivated our imaginations for centuries. But how do we accurately describe these magnificent beasts? In this article, I’ll be sharing a variety of adjectives that perfectly capture the essence of lions, along with examples to help paint a vivid picture in your mind.

When it comes to describing lions, one word that immediately comes to mind is “fierce.” Their piercing gaze and strong, muscular bodies exude an undeniable aura of power and strength. Just imagine a lion standing tall, its eyes locked onto its prey, ready to pounce at any moment. Another adjective that aptly describes lions is “majestic.” With their flowing manes and dignified posture, lions command respect and admiration wherever they roam. Picture a lion strolling through the savannah, its mane billowing in the wind, truly a sight to behold.

In this article, we’ll explore more adjectives that capture the essence of lions, from their physical characteristics to their behavior. So, let’s dive in and discover the perfect words to describe these extraordinary creatures.

Table of Contents

How to Describe lions? – Different Scenarios

1. Physical Appearance: Lions are known for their impressive physical appearance. Here are some adjectives that can be used to describe their physical characteristics:

3. Family Dynamics: In lion prides, family dynamics play an important role. Here are some adjectives to describe the relationships within a lion pride:

4. Symbolism and Representation: Lions have been symbols of power, strength, and courage for centuries. Here are some adjectives that capture their symbolic meaning:

By using these adjectives, we can paint a vivid picture of lions and convey their unique qualities in different scenarios. Whether it’s their physical appearance, hunting behavior, family dynamics, or symbolic representation, lions truly deserve the adjectives we use to describe them.

Describing Words for lions in English

When it comes to describing lions, there are a wide range of adjectives that capture their impressive qualities. Lions are known for their majestic presence, powerful bodies, and stunning manes. Let’s explore some descriptive words that highlight the unique characteristics of these mighty creatures.

Physical Appearance

Hunting behavior, family dynamics.

These are just a few examples of the descriptive words that can be used to depict lions in various scenarios. By using these adjectives, we can paint a vivid picture of the awe-inspiring nature of lions.

Adjectives for lions

Positive adjectives for lions.

Lions are often admired for their regal demeanor and awe-inspiring presence. Here are some positive adjectives that capture the essence of these magnificent creatures:

Let’s see some examples of how these adjectives can be used in sentences:

Negative Adjectives for Lions

I hope these adjectives help you in your quest to describe lions accurately and vividly. Remember, when it comes to capturing the true essence of these magnificent animals, choosing the right adjectives is key.

Synonyms and Antonyms with Example Sentences

Synonyms for lions.

When it comes to finding the right adjectives to describe lions, there are several synonyms that can help us paint a vivid picture. Let’s take a look at some synonyms for lions:

Antonyms for lions

On the other hand, if we want to describe lions in a contrasting way, we can use antonyms to convey a different perspective. Here are some antonyms for lions:

Let’s see how these antonyms can be used in sentences:

In this article, we have explored a wide range of adjectives that can be used to describe lions. We have discussed positive adjectives like majestic, graceful, powerful, courageous, stunning, and resilient, which highlight their awe-inspiring qualities. On the other hand, negative adjectives such as aggression, ferociousness, demandingness, territoriality, and vulnerability shed light on different aspects of their behavior.

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Fun Writing Ideas

Building Confidence in Young Writers

Kids Love this Lion Writing Prompt! A Persuasive Speech

This lion writing prompt focuses on conservation.  Lions are often used in unrealistic ways misleading children and people to think that they can be safe pets.  This writing lesson gives lions a chance to “speak”!

*This post contains affiliate links.  For more information, see my disclosures  here .*

Wildcats Writing Prompts

Kids love wildcats!  If you have a location near you that houses wildcats, definitely read on and find out how you can use any one or all of my  wildcats lessons  with your students.

For example, here in North Carolina we have the Carolina Tiger Rescue .  They receive large cats that people decide they can’t handle as pets.  Their mission is to discourage people from attempting to domesticate such wonderful creatures.

My colleague, Kim (owner of Artz Hub ) and I were inspired by our  successful partnership with the Duke Lemur Center  and wanted to branch out.  The Carolina Tiger Rescue seemed like a natural fit for our book creation camps and so we were thrilled when they agreed to partner with us, too.  We started holding art and writing workshops and summer camps at their location.

Support Their Mssion-Conservation and Education

Part of the partnership is that we incorporate their mission into our art and writing lessons.  So, the wild cat writing lessons are ones that I have actually conducted at their facility with children.  If you have a similar location near you, or even a zoo that houses wild cats, I’d strongly encourage you to plan a visit so the children can learn more.

Then, use any of the Wild Cat prompts as a follow up activity!  This particular lion writing prompt was created to support the mission and message of the Carolina Tiger Rescue , which discourages companies from using lions for marketing (in logos and advertisements).

NOW FOR THE LESSON!

To get a full understanding on how I conduct each writing lesson you may want to read the Writing Prompts Introduction post.  The lion writing prompt outlined below (and all other prompts posted) will make more sense and be easier to follow and use.  Here’s the lined paper I use for Grades K-2  and  Grades 2-7

Tell the Story Line

First, tell the story line: ““You’re going to write a persuasive speech on behalf of the lions (or wild animals).  The speech is going to encourage listeners to STOP using the animals for marketing (TV commercials and logos).”

2. Then, discuss where lions are actually used in marketing

MGM Movies’ logo and TV commercials for the grocery store Food Lion (a southern chain that my campers are familiar with).

3. Next, discuss reasons why people shouldn’t use live lions for these ads.

It’s dangerous for the trainers.

Being in front of a camera is an unnatural environment for lions.

Using real lions in ads misleads us to believe that they are safe.

Show the 5 Sections:

• Introduction

Remember:  K-1 st Graders are encouraged to write 1 sentence for each section, 2 nd Graders 2 sentences, 3 rd Graders 3 sentences and so on.

NOW TO WRITE!

Guide the students through the following steps so that their speech is organized and complete.  They can write each step using their own words.

1. First, leave the first line blank for the title.

2. Second, write an introductory statement (1, at most 2 sentences)

Lions should NOT be used for marketing and sales.

3. Third, begin with the phrase, First of all.  Write and explain reason #1 using 1-5 sentences.

4. Fourth, begin with the phrase, Secondly. Write and explain reason #2 in 1-5 sentences.

5. Fifth, begin with the phrase, Lastly.  Write and explain reason #3 in 1-5 sentences.

6. Finally, write a concluding statement that restates the introduction and encourages readers to agree!

Using real lions in ads is ______.

7. Choose and write a title. A popular one among campers was “Foolish Advertisements.”

Print the Lesson

Here’s the full lesson for you to print out and use.

EASY ART ACCENTS

Once the campers finished their speeches, they began working on their lion art accent .  These easy art accents are highly motivating to writers and reward them for the work!

In addition, they add color and charm to each child’s story.  Like most of our easy art accents,  this lion’s mane can be completed in less than 5 minutes and added to any writing piece about lions.

Bordered Paper

My students write on lined paper with a border.  Here’s a printout of the lined paper I use for Grades 2-7   and  Grades K-2 .  Here’s a printout of a border with no lines to use with  very early writers .

First, the campers completed their speech.  Then, they used a yellow marker to color the border.

Students have the choice to fill in the top as well, or leave it blank to write the title with marker or  ABC stickers*.

Next, they used a q-tip and brown  acrylic paint*  to make lines for the lion’s mane.

Here’s a  sample for you to print out and hang.

NOTE:  the paint causes the paper to curl a bit so we always put our dried finished work in  plastic page protectors*.

Facts About Lions

Take this lesson a step further.  Have your students read facts about lions  here !

GAMES TO PLAY!

Wild cats are a big hit every year at my summer writing camps.  Here students unscramble the names of wild cats using letter tiles.  You can read my full post on different ways to use letter tiles  here .

Writers can unscramble the wild cat names using the letter tiles.  Or, they can simply unscramble the words by writing them on small white boards as well.  The letter tiles are just another fun way to practice the words!  (You can use letter tiles from old Scrabble games or you can purchase different color sets of 100 wooden letter tiles online at Amazon.  Here’s the link* .)

There are 10 different cats at the Carolina Tiger Rescue so those are the names I used.  I made a document listing all 10 cats (9 plus the tiger in the logo) so they had something to refer to.  Here are the  10 Cats for you to download and use.  I print one for each group and slide it in a plastic page protector*  so it can be reused many times.

I give each group of 2-3 children a box of letter tiles.

On the white board at the front of the group.  I write the letters to one of the cats in a scrambled fashion.

The children race to form the word with their letter tiles.

The game continues until they’ve completed all 10 names or the allotted time runs out!

Print the Instructions

Here are the game instructions for you to print out and use.

Additional Writing Games:

Facts and Opinions-4-11 Words

Describe.Guess. (using Brand Names)

Apples to Apples Writing

*All background knowledge and information needed for this prompt came from the staff and tour at the Carolina Tiger Rescue.*

Eva Langston

10 Simple Plot Exercises You Need to Do BEFORE You Write Your Novel!

What The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe Can Teach Us About Writing Children’s Fiction

in Children's Literature Study on 01/19/19

Guest post by Edward J. Denecke , author and illustrator of What Happens at School When You’re Not There?   (For a full bio, see the end of this post.)  

During an important exam week while I was in college, someone told me about C.S. Lewis’s The Chronicles of Narnia , a children’s fantasy-adventure series. I was a serious student and never  shirked the responsibility of preparing for a test…until I began to read the first book in the series: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe ,  in which four children in 1940’s England walk through a wardrobe and end up in a magical land. What began as a mere curiosity culminated in a string of late nights absorbed in all things Narnia. I can no longer remember anything about those exams but I DO  remember being transfixed by these incredible stories.

What is it about the Narnia books that make them so popular? They’ve sold more than 100 million copies world-wide in 47 languages. From the seven books, three film adaptations so far have been made – The Lion, The Witch And The Wardrobe (2005), Prince Caspian (2008), and The Voyage of The Dawn Treader  (2010) – which have grossed over 1.5 billion world-wide.

What can we learn specifically from The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe ? I believe there are at least 8 lessons writers can learn from this classic novel. Be aware that there are several spoilers contained in this post. You’ve been warned!

Lesson #1:      Clear Premise

The premise sets the direction of your story’s trajectory. Get it wrong and you will travel so far afield of your desired destination that it will be nearly impossible to correct. Do you want to hear a concisely written premise? Here’s the premise on the back cover of my copy of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe:

“How Aslan, the noble lion, freed Narnia from the spell of the White Witch.”

There are a lot of important elements concerning the story unmentioned in this premise, but it zeroes in on the core of what this adventure is really  all about. I look at the premise sentence as my north star. If I can write it concisely, it can guide me exactly to the crux of my story.

Lesson #2:      Clear Conflict

A story without conflict is a story without an audience. Who cares if nothing ever goes wrong? But a story with muddled conflict is almost as bad (and maybe worse!). Did you ever read a book (or watch a movie) and think, “What a stupid situation! The whole thing could be solved in two minutes if …” I have. (For a few illustrative examples, take a look at the Cracked post “6 Movie Plots That Could Have Been Solved In Minutes.” ) If conflict is contrived, the whole story crumbles like a wobbly stack of Jenga  blocks.

So, what is keeping the four children from their ultimate goal of helping Aslan free Narnia from the White Witch? Layers of conflict. Edmund’s greed. Aslan’s hidden agenda. The children’s hesitations at fulfilling the prophecies written about them. The Narnians who’ve gone rogue. But the central source of conflict is always focused on the malicious intentions of the White Witch. As Mr. Beaver summarizes it for the children:

“And that’s why the Witch is always on the lookout for any Humans in Narnia. She’s been watching for you this many a year, and if she knew there were four of you she’d be more dangerous still.”

Check out this lovely picture book version of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

Lesson #3:      Clear Designing Principle

In his book, The Anatomy of Story , John Truby describes the Designing Principle like this:

“The designing principle is what organizes the story as a whole. It is the internal logic of the story, what makes the parts hang together organically so that the story becomes greater than the sum of its parts. It is what makes the story original.”

What is the designing principle of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe ?   I believe it is found in Professor Digory Kirke’s words at the end of the story in referring to the Wardrobe and the children’s desire to enter Narnia again at some point in the future:

“You won’t go into Narnia again by that  route.”

Everything  Narnia  happens within the Wardrobe. So the designing principle is a journey  starting when the children enter  the wardrobe and ending when they exit  it. Be certain to have something unique and original like a Wardrobe-contained journey that defines the totality of your  story.

Lesson #4:      Clear Path to Character Change

Quoting John Truby again:

“Character change is what your hero experiences by going through his struggle. At the simplest level, that change could be represented as a three-part equation … W x A = C where W  stands for weaknesses, both psychological and moral; A  represents the struggle to accomplish the basic action in the middle of the story; and C  stands for the changed person.”

I have found it incredibly helpful in my own story development to spell this out as precisely as I possibly can. What does it look like in The Lion, the Witch and the  Wardrobe ? The W  would be the children’s precarious predicament as helpless victims ( weakness ) in a world spinning out of control; the A  would be the lengthy and costly battle against the White Witch ( basic action taken ) which forces them to confront the difficult challenges facing them while in Narnia; and the C  would stand for the growth ( change ) the tried-and-tested children have achieved as a result of their Narnian adventure.

*Eva’s note:  I disagree with Edward a bit on this one.  In my mind, the W in Truby’s equation stands for a character’s internal weakness, not a situational weakness.  For example, in the novel, Edmund’s greed and overall bad temper is his weakness; through his actions over the course of the story he must confront and overcome these personal weaknesses, thus causing him to be a changed person by the end.   

Lesson #5:      Clear Visible Plot Goal

The plot goal in The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe  is crystal clear from the moment Lucy meets Tumnus, the faun on her first visit to Narnia. After putting Lucy under a mysterious spell by playing his flute, Tumnus regretfully informs Lucy of his deception by explaining to her,

“I had orders from the White Witch that if ever I saw a Son of Adam or a Daughter of Eve in the wood, I was to catch them and hand them over to her.”

And a moment before he revealed,

“It isn’t something I have  done. I’m doing it now, this very moment.”

At this point the goal is set: Lucy and her siblings must defeat the White Witch, the Queen of Narnia, before she destroys them. Crystal. Clear.

Lesson #6:      Clear Outer Motivation

Children’s fantasy writer and illustrator, Michael Hague , declares that the protagonist’s outer motivation must be visible, pursued to the end of the story, that it must define the outer journey, and its accomplishment must end the story. How does The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe  measure up to that standard?

Susan, Peter, Lucy, and Edmund have one clear outer motivation: to defeat the White Witch and end the hundred-year winter in Narnia. That motivation is visible, pursued to the end of the story, defining of their outer journey, and its accomplishment ends the story (except for the denouement).

“The battle was all over a few minutes after their arrival. Most of the enemy had been killed in the first charge of Aslan and his companions; and when those who were still living saw the Witch was dead they either gave themselves up or took to flight.”

  After that, the story wrap-up proceeds.

Lesson #7:      Clear Major Dramatic Query

C.S. Lakin, writing coach and author of Writing the Heart of Your Story , describes the major dramatic query as a “Yes” or “No” question that you ask at the start of the book. In The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe  that question is: Will the Pevensie children be successful in their attempt to defeat the White Witch and free the Narnians from the spell of the hundred-year winter? Yes or No.

Lesson #8:      Clear Theme

Good stories are saturated with powerful themes. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe  is no exception. Betrayal, Greed, Compassion, Forgiveness, Good over Evil, and Courage, just to name a few. Karen P.L. Hardison, a certified teacher and contributor to enotes.com , states that the overriding theme of the book is “the power of evil to wholly dominate and the virtues that oppose evil” . Not a bad encapsulation of the totality of the adventure, wouldn’t you say?

It should be noted in closing that many readers find allegorical meaning in the entire Narnia series, specifically of the biblical variety. I would be one of them. But I don’t believe that Lewis intended his books to be limited to one strict interpretation of them. Much like the unredacted story of Robinson Crusoe complete with his soul-wrenching conversion, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe  can be read on numerous levels. As simply an amazing adventure story, it is sufficiently marvelous!

Check out the other Great Children’s Literature Study posts for more lessons from classic children’s novels!

Edward J Denecke is the published author and illustrator of What Happens at School When You’re Not There ?  He is currently deep into the production of a four-part children’s adventure series. He lives in central Ohio with his wife, Marilyn, where they moved to be near their grandchildren. You can find his website at edwardjdenecke.com, and keep an eye out sometime in 2020 for the first book in his four-part children’s adventure series.

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January 19, 2019 at 8:56 pm

What a great analysis and deconstruction of such a beloved story! Great article, Edward, with lots of takeaways. It is amazing how despite the clear conflict, premise, plot, themes, design principle, character arc, and motivation, the story can be read and interpreted in so many levels. It proves clarity does not preclude nuanced and complexity

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Picture Prompt

Lion writing prompt.

Imagine you are on a safari in the African savannah and you come across a lion walking in the distance. Write a description of your encounter with the lion, create a picture in the reader’s mind of the surroundings and the emotions you feel as you observe the powerful animal.

Warm-Up Discussion Questions

How would you describe what a lion looks like?

How would you describe how a lion moves?

What sounds might you hear?

What might the lion be searching for as it walks across the savannah?

What other animals might be present in the savannah that we can’t see in the picture?

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• Writing Activities

5 Writing Activities Inspired by the Chronicles of Narnia

It’s every child’s dream to enter a fantasy world with a talking lion, an ice queen, sword fighting and of course snow! The Chronicles of Narnia is one of the most memorable stories and book series of all time. It teaches kids that you’re never too old for a good adventure, to never give up, to be honest, and always be forgiving and so much more. To celebrate the birthday of C.S Lewis on the 29 th November, here is a list of 5 writing activities inspired by the Chronicles of Narnia . These writing activities are great for everyone, whether you’ve read the books or not!

1. Draw your own magical world, inside a wardrobe and describe it. You can even use our worksheet!

2. Using the following quotes from the Chronicles of Narnia books. Can you write your own magical short story (less than 500 words)?

“Peter did not feel very brave; indeed, he felt he was going to be sick. But that made no difference to what he had to do.”

“Remember that all worlds draw to an end and that noble death is a treasure which no one is too poor to buy.” 

Lucy woke out of the deepest sleep you can imagine, with the feeling that the voice she liked best in the world had been calling her name.”

“This was bad grammar of course, but that is how beavers talk when they are excited; I mean, in Narnia–in our world they usually don’t talk at all.

Hint: You can use these quotes as story starters to begin your story.

3. Write an acrostic poem , using the following words: Narnia, Aslan, Wardrobe, Edmund, Lamppost and Beaver. 

4. Write a journal entry for your first day In Narnia. How did you feel? What did you see? What did you enjoy doing? Did anything make you feel scared?

5. Aslan has been captured by the Ice Queen. Write out a game plan to rescue Aslan. You can even draw diagrams and illustrations to support your plan.

Have you got any Chronicles of Narnia inspired writing activities?

Do you have any more ideas for writing activities relating to the Chronicles of Narnia? Let us know in the comments below.

Marty the wizard is the master of Imagine Forest. When he's not reading a ton of books or writing some of his own tales, he loves to be surrounded by the magical creatures that live in Imagine Forest. While living in his tree house he has devoted his time to helping children around the world with their writing skills and creativity.

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• Paragraph Writing
• Paragraph On Lion

Paragraph on Lion - Check Samples for 100, 150, 200, 250 Words

Writing paragraphs has been a common practice in schools, and writing about the king of the jungle, the lion is a common topic. The lion is considered the strongest terrestrial animal.

Table of Contents

Paragraph on lion in 100 words, paragraph on lion in 150 words, paragraph on lion in 200 words, paragraph on lion in 250 words, frequently asked questions on lion.

Read the full article to get an idea about the lion. Refer to the samples provided below before writing a paragraph on the lion.

The lion is a wild terrestrial animal called the king of the forest. The lion is a strong animal with a strong body, a big head, a majestic mane, and two fierce eyes. Lions are predatory animals and eat only after hunting. They have strong claws and sharp teeth, which help them hunt their prey and eat the flesh. Lions have yellowish-grey skin colour with smooth hair and an imperious roar which makes a lion unique. The footprints of lions are called pug marks. Lions are found chiefly in grasslands, open woodlands, or enclosed in zoos. Since they kill their own prey and hunt for food, they have the capacity to run fast.

The lion, also known as the king of the forest, is a wild terrestrial animal. The lion is a powerful animal with a powerful physique, a large head with a majestic mane, four legs, and two brilliant eyes. Lions are carnivorous animals that only eat after they have hunted. They have powerful claws and sharp teeth that enable them to hunt and consume flesh. Lions have yellow-grey skin and sleek hair, and their roar distinguishes them from other animals. Pug marks refer to a lion’s footprints. Lions are usually found in open woodlands, grasslands, or zoos. They can sprint extremely quickly as they kill their prey and search for sustenance. Lions are found in groups known as pride, where only two adult lions are found, and the rest are lionesses and their cubs. Lions are very protective when it comes to their cubs and their places. They fight for their survival and can fight for their families.

Lions belong to the Felidae family, a cat family known as the giant cats. The cat family comprises lions, tigers, leopards, panthers, and jaguars, but the lions are considered the most powerful. The lion is regarded as one of the bravest animals and looks hefty. They are also called the king of the jungle. Male lions have a mane that gives them a bulky appearance, but the mane is absent in female lions. Lions live in groups called ‘pride’ and live in grasslands and open woodlands. A pride usually comprises five to thirty lions. The pride comprises a few male lions, and the rest are lionesses and their cubs. Lions are very protective when it comes to their family, their cubs, and their places of survival. They can fight for their survival as well as for their cubs. Lions hunt together and live together and sleep for more than 20 hours. Lions are found in India’s Gir Forest, and India is famed for being the home of these animals. They can also be found in Eastern Africa, Southern Africa, and other parts of Africa.

Lions are among the biggest cats and belong to the Felidae family, which is the cat family. Lions, tigers, leopards, panthers, and jaguars are all cat family members, but lions are the most powerful. The lion is one of the bravest creatures and has a powerful appearance. They are also known as the jungle’s kings. Lions are large, four-legged animals with a hefty appearance. Male lions have a mane that gives them a bulky appearance, whereas female lions do not have a mane. Lions reside in deep forests and are found in groups known as ‘pride’. Five to thirty lions make up the pride. Only a few male lions will be found in pride, while the majority are lionesses and their cubs. Lions are fiercely protective when it comes to their families, offspring, and safe havens. They are capable of fighting for their survival as well as the survival of their young. Lions hunt and live together, sleeping for more than 20 hours at a time. Lions are found in India’s Gir Forest, and the country is known for being the home of these animals. They’re also found in Eastern and Southern Africa and other sections of the continent. Lions consume flesh and are occasionally spotted eating grass though they are not grass-eaters. Every different individual on the planet is unique in their own way. A lion is different and powerful from all other animals in the forest. The roar of the lion is something that makes them unique.

How can we describe a lion?

A lion can be described as a strong animal with four legs and a hefty appearance. The lion is called the king of the jungle and symbolises bravery and courage.

Why is the lion called the king of the jingle?

The lion is called the king of the jungle because of his power and strength. Lions are strong and fearless animals which is why they are called the king of the jungle.

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Essay on Lion

The lion is a wild animal. The jungle is its natural habitat. It is called “the King of the Jungle” because of its massive size and raw power. It has a strong build, four legs, a large head with mane (in males), a tail and two glowing eyes which make it look ferocious. The lion is famous for its roar and hunting ability. It lives in a ‘pride.’ The details on the majestic animal are discussed in this lion essay.

As well as being known as the king of the jungle, the lion is also the world's most dangerous animal. He is the best hunter in the forest. His biological name is Panthera leo, as he is very large and powerful.

A Description of the Body and its abilities

He is a strong animal with large eyes, four legs, a large head, and sharp teeth that help him to hunt and eat his prey. His body is covered with small greyish hair that gives him a good-looking appearance. A cub has dark spots on his body that gradually fade away with age. It has sharp teeth and claws that can be used to capture prey.

Besides the mane of the lion which is that they have long hair around their neck, another very famous part of their bodies is the tail of the lion.

Female lions and lionesses weigh an average of 130 kg and 190 kg, respectively.

What is Their Location?

In most forests, you find lions, but they're sometimes found in zoos, centuries, and circuses as well.

There are around 10 species of lion spread out over the world. South African Lions are the largest and Transvaal Lions are the second largest. Lions were once found in Eurasia, Africa, and North America.

10 Lines on Lion in English

The lion belongs to a family of cats.

It is a large and strong wild animal.

It is one of the strongest animals in the forest.

The lion is known as “The King of the Jungle”.

It is famous for its oar and hunting ability.

The lion’s body is covered with smooth, small ochre yellow hair.

The long hair which covers the lion’s neck is called ‘mane’.

The lion’s footprints are called ‘pugmarks.’

The lion eats flesh and hence, it is a carnivore.

Its teeth and claws are very sharp.

From the above lines on lions in English, we can see that lions are powerful animals. No wonder he is called the “King of the Jungle”. The female lion is known as the “lioness” and the lion offspring is called a “cub”. An essay on wild animal lions would simply not be complete without writing about his group.

The group in which lions live is called “pride”. It has ten to forty lions in it. Out of them, only one or two are adult males while the rest include lionesses and cubs. Usually, the males of the pride protect the cubs and the group against other animals and the females go out to hunt. Lions are very protective of their pride and are very ferocious animals with brilliant hunting abilities. 

In this essay on lions for Class 3 and 4 kids, it must be mentioned that lions sleep for twelve to fourteen hours during the daytime and go hunting at night. Lions have very sharp eyesight and are, therefore, excellent hunters. Their sharp claws and strong paws help them to hunt animals for their food. Lions eat the flesh of other animals and they are very fast runners. The loud roaring of lions could be heard from a distance of 8 kilometers.

Among all the cat species, only lions are socially active. Prides typically consist of two males, seven females, and any number of cubs. Lionesses usually belong to a group of sisters or cousins who have been living together since birth.

In mature females, the height at the shoulder is around four feet, the weight is about 450 pounds, the length is approximately eight and a half feet plus its tail. As a result, females are considerably smaller and weigh around 300 pounds on average.

In southern Africa, coated lions are sometimes seen, but these are not true albinos. Common albinos have a light brown or dark brown plain coat, with no spots or markings.

During the age of five, the male lion reaches sexual maturity, whereas the female lion reaches maturity when she is four. In pride, lionesses usually are brought together during the breeding season and later give birth together, allowing them to share nursing duties.

An average of three clubs are born to a lioness between 98 and 105 days after she becomes pregnant. Despite the harsh conditions in their habitats, only one of those cubs will make it to adulthood. Babies are blind at birth, and they move very slowly. Babies weigh less than five pounds.

Distribution

Since lions are wild animals, the places where they can be found must be stated in the lion essay. Lions can be found in the wild savannah of Africa and the Gir forest of Gujarat in India. Lions were also found in Europe, North America, and some parts of the Middle East, but due to poaching, they are not found in those countries anymore. 

Poaching and Significance of Conservation

Lions are considered endangered animals because humans hunt and kill them for their skin, bones and mane. Lions are also kept in zoos, away from the wildlife, where they become unhappy. Therefore, lions must be protected from being hunted down and killed by humans. After all, this majestic animal is a symbol of power, honour and pride and should be preserved for future generations to behold their beauty and grace. 

And with that, this lion essay comes to an end. In this essay, the reason why he is called the “King of the Jungle” is written. The essay shows how the lion behaves, how much his strength is, his power in the forest, etc. The details about the “pride” of the lion are also discussed in this lion essay in English. Moreover, we now know where lions can be found on the planet and how human activities are hurting them. 

Lions are third-level or tertiary consumers in a forest ecosystem who feed on primary (herbivores) and secondary consumers. They play a crucial role in energy transmission in a food chain. Therefore, from an ecological point of view too, lions must be conserved to maintain the balance of the ecosystem. 

A Short Essay on Lion

The lion is a wild animal that lives in the jungle. It is called the “King of the Jungle” because of its strength and power. He has a large body of four legs, a huge head, a tail and a thick mane that makes him different from the others. Some details about lions shall be discussed in this lion essay.

5 Lines About Lion in English

The lion is a carnivore and eats the flesh of other animals.

The lion is very good at hunting.

The lion sleeps during the day and hunts at night.

The lion’s long hair on his neck is called “mane” and it protects him.

The lion is famous for its roar, large body and hunting ability.

The female lion is called “lioness” and the offspring are called the “cub”. Lions live in a group called “pride”. Lions are very protective of their group and cubs. Lions are endangered animals and can be found in Africa and some parts of India.

In this short essay on lions, some details about lions, and their group and where they are found etc are discussed. And with that, this essay comes to an end.

FAQs on Lion Essay

1. How long can Lions live?

Lions can live for ten to fourteen years in the wild and about 20 years in captivity. According to its lifecycle, an animal lives for an average of 20 years from conception to death. Because captive animals are safe from calamities and predators, they receive regular food supplies, and they have access to adequate medical care, they live longer in captivity than in the wild. During their existence in the wild, animals depend on their ability to survive against predators and find food to preserve their lifespan. It is difficult for lions even though they are top predators in the wild, and they live a shorter life than in captivity. On this page, we have gathered all the information you need to know about How Long Do Lions Live so that you have a better understanding of how long Lions live in the wild and captivity. 

2. How does the mane protect the Lion?

The mane protects the lion from attacks on his neck by other animals or lions from a different pride. During fights with other males, lions usually attack each other on their backs and hips, rather than their neck, which has been viewed as a shield by some. The mane serves not as a sign of fitness, per se, but as a signal, much like the tail of a peacock, about how strong the male is. You can directly go to the Vedantu link if you want to know a detailed view on this topic.

3. Why are Lions captured and hunted by humans?

Lions are hunted by poachers for their skin and bones and captured and kept in zoos for human recreation.

4. When Humans hunt Lions, why do they capture and capture them?

People kill lions in certain parts of Africa from fear or to demonstrate manhood during rites of passage ceremonies. Poachers hunt lions for their skin and bones; zoos keep lions for human entertainment. Lions are considered to be a symbol of manhood, courage, and strength. There are other threats. Besides mining in wildlife areas, illegal logging, poorly regulated trophy hunting and disease, there are many other threats facing lions as well as their prey in some places. Lions in captivity are often killed to supply Asia with bones. As an alternative to Tiger Bone Wine or to make Tiger Bone Cakes, the bones are used in addition to the tiger bone trade.

5. Which animal would win in a fight between a Tiger and a Lion?

As one imagines what might happen in the wild, one should consider the following:

Although tiger subspecies differ in size, tigers generally have an advantage in height/weight.

Tigers are known for their one-on-one combat style, so they may have the advantage in a group fight since male lions often unite against territorial rivals. However, if a lion coalition of two or three males encountered a single tiger, the lion coalition would win. It would be similar if two to four female lions were competing against one lone tigress.

Lion coalition partners squabble over access to females in estrous phases, and though these battles are not as intense as those between opposing coalitions, fighting experience may give a lion an edge against a tiger in one-on-one friction.

Despite the lion's mane not appearing to protect the lion from other lions, the tiger's fighting style evolved in the absence of a mane, allowing it to gain an advantage against a lone lion.

6. Is it possible to get hurt by a Lion's tongue?

Having a lion lick your skin would be painful. As a result of the rough texture of their tongues and the embedded spines (papillae), lions can hunt and devour their prey. Even a small lick or two could cause serious injury because the spines are sharp and point backwards. Would it hurt if a lion licked you? Lions have a thick tongue that is rough and big. Would it hurt if they did? All in all, it would hurt from a lion's lick or a tiger's bite, and even a simple scratch could cause gruesome injuries. However, you must not underestimate the lion's savagery. Although the tiger appears faster and more agile than the lion, the lion is stronger and more protective of its pride, making him virtually unbeatable if you were to fight him.

Its mane also serves as a protection and shield against whatever else the tiger throws at it.

The mane of a lion protects the lion from being bitten, which is helpful since tigers generally bite the back of their prey's necks. An interesting fact about lions: their manes become darker as they age.

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Home > Resources > EXPLORE EMPATHY : How to Be a Lion Picture Book Pack

EXPLORE EMPATHY : How to Be a Lion Picture Book Pack

Key stage and subjects, what’s the story.

This book is for those who daydream, and those who think for themselves.

Meet Leonard – a lion like no other. Leonard’s best friend is Marianne, a duck. But lions chomp ducks, don’t they? And what will the pair do when their way of life is threatened?

What’s the resource?

The How To Be a Lion Picture Book Pack sparks ideas for Literacy, Citizenship or RSE discussion around the need to belong, individual differences, celebrating uniqueness, and working together with friends. The objective is for children to understand that everyone is different and that difference is something to be celebrated.

Explore themes of:

• Celebrating Difference

How to use this resource

The four lessons included in this Pack can be used with children at EYFS or KS1. They have been designed as sequential activities and can be taught as whole Literacy or Citizenship/RSE units, or as standalone activities to explore the theme of empathy.

Get the EXPLORE EMPATHY : How to Be a Lion Picture Book Pack

Related books, how to be a lion, who makes puffin schools, tag on the top needs the closed class if you start as expanded, leave data-collapsed="false" attribute, its used in the css --> puffin schools has been created by the children’s publisher puffin to help bring together all the inspiring content we create for schools into one place. fa-angle-down--> what ages are the books on puffin schools for, tag on the top needs the closed class if you start as expanded, leave data-collapsed="false" attribute, its used in the css --> the books on this website will range from those for eyfs through to primary and up to lower secondary school. you can discover our full range of books at puffin.co.uk fa-angle-down--> what is puffin, tag on the top needs the closed class if you start as expanded, leave data-collapsed="false" attribute, its used in the css --> puffin is an imprint of penguin random house, the world’s number-one publisher representing a vibrant community of publishing houses marked by unparalleled success. through our world of stories, puffin aims to open up the world to every child. our mission is to inspire children to feel they can be and do anything, and to create readers for life. puffin started out as a non-fiction publisher, with its first title appearing in 1940. as the most iconic and well-known children’s book brand in the uk today, we are always on the lookout for innovative ways to tell the world’s favourite stories and for brilliant new debut talent and brands that connect with today’s young readers, from newborn up to twelve years old. we publish a diverse and wide range of fiction, non-fiction, picture books and children’s classics. our list includes some of the world’s favourite authors, illustrators and licensed brands, such as eric carle, helen oxenbury, nadia shireen, the snowman, doctor who, roald dahl, tom fletcher, jeff kinney, rick riordan, robin stevens, and jacqueline wilson to name but a few. fa-angle-down--> what’s the connection between ladybird, puffin and penguin, tag on the top needs the closed class if you start as expanded, leave data-collapsed="false" attribute, its used in the css --> ladybird, puffin and penguin are imprints of penguin random house uk. across their extensive list, we believe there is a story for every child, everywhere. you can find information about books for all ages at penguin.co.uk fa-angle-down--> where can i buy puffin books from, tag on the top needs the closed class if you start as expanded, leave data-collapsed="false" attribute, its used in the css --> all the books featured on this website can be purchased in the usual way: as well as being available on the high street and online, you can find lots of brilliant offers via school-specific suppliers and wholesale retailers. fa-angle-down--> how do i get in contact with a member of the puffin schools team, tag on the top needs the closed class if you start as expanded, leave data-collapsed="false" attribute, its used in the css --> whether you’ve got a brilliant idea for a lesson, a photograph of something incredible you’ve done at your school or just have a question, please email  [email protected] and a member of the team will get back to you as soon as possible . fa-angle-down--> what’s happened to puffin virtually live, tag on the top needs the closed class if you start as expanded, leave data-collapsed="false" attribute, its used in the css --> the story-makers show  was known as puffin virtually live  up until march 2019. the content and ambition of the show remains the same: to give every pupil the opportunity to engage with authors and illustrators in their own classroom using the power of the internet. we’ve re-named puffin virtually live  so that it’s easier for new teachers to discover it as part of puffin schools and to acknowledge that the show now premieres on show day, rather than being streamed live. fa-angle-down--> what’s happened to my puffin virtually live account, tag on the top needs the closed class if you start as expanded, leave data-collapsed="false" attribute, its used in the css --> your account for puffin virtually live has been deactivated as it is no longer a feature of the puffin schools website. if you were registered for the newsletter, you will now receive the puffin schools newsletter, which is filled with all the latest information about accompanying resources and upcoming shows. if you do not wish to receive it any longer then please unsubscribe. fa-angle-down--> which video platform is the story-makers show hosted on.

The Lion and The Mouse Story Writing

The Lion and The Mouse Story Writing will teach the moral value of kindness and how kindness never gets wasted, no matter how small it is.

If you are in a school or parents looking for story writing, this story is for you. The Lion and The Mouse Story Writing will give you a learning experience as well as teach some valuable lessons. Here in this story, one day the lion shows kindness towards a tiny mouse. In troubled times, the tiny mouse repays that kindness to the lion.

• The lion and Mouse meeting
• Lion caught tiny mouse
• Tiny mouse begged for life
• Lion shows kindness
• One-day lion got trapped
• The mouse helped lion
• Repay his kindness

Long long ago, in a dense forest, lived a lion. The lion was known as the king of the forest for his bravery and strength. All living beings were afraid of lion. One day the lion was taking a short nap under a tree beside where a tiny mouse was playing. While running, the mouse accidentally falls under the lion. The lion’s nap got disturbed and woke up.

The lion was very angry immediately after he caught the tiny mouse with his paws. The mouse begged for his life, saying, “Lion, you are the king of this forest. Please forgive me.” The mouse also said if you let me go today, someday I will help you and repay your kindness.

Listening to the mouse, the lion laughed at the mouse’s promise that a tiny mouse could help him. Looking at the tiny mouse, the lion thought, it is too small to eat and let him go.

After some days passed, the lion and mouse were living their normal lives, hunting and sleeping. One day, while hunting, the lion got trapped in a hunter’s trap. The lion tried his best to get out of this trap but failed. The tiny mouse heard the news that the lion got trapped. The mouse ran and went to that place. Without thinking anything, the mouse started gnawing on the ropes that bound the lion.

After Sometimes the ropes are cut and the lion gets his freedom. The lion was shocked that the tiny mouse saved his life. The lion felt sorry and apologized to the mouse for his misunderstanding. The tiny mouse was also happy to repay the kindness that he promised. From that day, the lion and the antonym house started living together and became very close friends.

The Lion and The Mouse Story Writing Summary

Once, there was a lion who was known as the king of the forest. Accidentally, a tiny mouse came into the lion’s paws. Tiny Mouse begged for his life and said, Don’t eat me. If you allow me to go someday, I will also help you.

They laughed at how a tiny mouse could help me. The lion thought the mouse was too small to eat, so he let the mouse go. Some days later, while hunting, the lion got trapped in a rope net. Listening to this, the mouse came and started gnawing on the rope net. The lion gets his freedom and thanks the tiny mouse for saving his life.

Moral: No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.

Explanation of the moral:

This moral teaches us we should always show kindness towards others, no matter how small it is. Your small kindness will help you to improve someone else’s life. Also, you get back your kindness in some way; this is why kindness never gets wasted. If you get any opportunity to show kindness to others, always do that.

If you enjoyed reading this story, let us know your thoughts in the comments section. Thank you for reading.

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TheMyst7885 Active Member

Symbolic lion used for representing evil or corruption.

Discussion in ' Setting Development ' started by TheMyst7885 , Sep 12, 2019 .

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_7a49debaec04835a835296b9ce044a2b'); }); I'm planning on having some evil organizations with certain animal symbolic meanings and throughout fiction and real history there have been different meanings that have been used before, like snakes or serpent used for death, destruction and poisonous which I already have and wasps I have with the "hive mind" state, but I wanted to know if there is anything that represents lions with evil or corruption because all I can find is that the lion represented mostly courage, goodness, wisdom and pride. Is there any evil interpretations of the lion that I can use and research so I can use it's symbol for one of my bad organizations?  

Cdn Writer Contributor Contributor

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_7a49debaec04835a835296b9ce044a2b'); }); Not that I can think of offhand from any European sources but perhaps an African source? Like to us westerners they are powerful, majestic creatures, right? To African people they are the monsters that kill their people and eat their cattle. Check how some African countries view the Lion - as a symbol of power? As a symbol of evil? Etc. Does it need to be factual? Why not just make up a "black lion" symbol and say it represents organization X? "Black" having the influence of shading the symbol as "evil"?  

The Dapper Hooligan (V) ( ;,,;) (v) Contributor

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_7a49debaec04835a835296b9ce044a2b'); }); Cdn Writer said: ↑ "Black" having the influence of shading the symbol as "evil"? Click to expand...

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_7a49debaec04835a835296b9ce044a2b'); }); The Dapper Hooligan said: ↑ Racist?? Also, counterpoint, Stormtroopers in Star Wars, troops in Hunger Games, and Apple Retail Outlets. Click to expand...

NoGoodNobu Contributor Contributor

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_7a49debaec04835a835296b9ce044a2b'); }); So google confirmed: Christian scripture: first epistle of Peter, verse 8, compares the devil to a lion. Νήψατε γρηγορήσατε ὅτι ὁ ἀντίδικος ὑμῶν διάβολος ὡς λέων ὠρυόμενος περιπατεῖζητῶν τινα καταπίῃ “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.” (New King James translation)  

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_7a49debaec04835a835296b9ce044a2b'); }); Hey this may be good then. Thanks!  

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_7a49debaec04835a835296b9ce044a2b'); }); Oh, great.....I actually did not even think of the racial aspect at all! I was thinking merely in terms of the image being scary looking and shady....sort of like a "black cat" on Halloween but much, much bigger being a lion and being used as the symbol of an evil organization. Does it need to be a lion? panther, puma, cheetah, jaguar, hyena, bobcat, tiger,....I'm sure there's more.  

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_7a49debaec04835a835296b9ce044a2b'); }); Cdn Writer said: ↑ Oh, great.....I actually did not even think of the racial aspect at all! I was thinking merely in terms of the image being scary looking and shady....sort of like a "black cat" on Halloween but much, much bigger being a lion and being used as the symbol of an evil organization. Does it need to be a lion? panther, puma, cheetah, jaguar, hyena, bobcat, tiger,....I'm sure there's more. Click to expand...

OrdinaryJoe Active Member

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_7a49debaec04835a835296b9ce044a2b'); }); The Nemean lion is from Greek mythology. It terrorized and killed many people because it's golden mane was impervious to human weapons. Hercules eventually was asked to kill the lion which he did with his bare hands. He then wore the mane of the lion as armor. You could base your symbol on that and give it as some sort of explanation. You can also draw from the Ghost and Darkness which were two lions that hunted and killed between 28 to 31 railroad workers in Africa in the mid 1800's. Although, the movie depicts a much higher kill count. You could use two lions in your symbol and tell this back story.  

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_7a49debaec04835a835296b9ce044a2b'); }); You mean like I could base the villain using the lion symbol as his success in becoming some ruler or leader and putting on the mane of the lion like Hercules did? I actually like that backstory with two lions that did this kind of attack, maybe I can have this antagonist use that part of his symbol for their ferociousness and kills they made?  

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_7a49debaec04835a835296b9ce044a2b'); }); Sure, you can do what ever you feel like. It's just some things are more difficult to write then others. Many symbols are based on the characteristics of the animal. So if your organization consider themselves as strong and fierce then that's all the back story you really need to provide for using a lion as their symbol.  

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_7a49debaec04835a835296b9ce044a2b'); }); That works then. But how could I say this antagonist leanred from a kung fu master? Which is how he gained such power in the first place and got his organization today to become as powerful as a lions symbol. I was going to say that during the 70's when he was young, before he gained all the fame and glory, he went to China and met a kung fu master that was a member of the Shaolin Temple, which later on in life the antagonist had spread all his power around with lion symbols lol. But I'm not sure if that could work so well.  

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_7a49debaec04835a835296b9ce044a2b'); }); Maybe he was trained in the Lion technique of Kung Fu. You could call it the Lion Paw style.  

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_7a49debaec04835a835296b9ce044a2b'); }); I don't think there is such a thing, unless I make it completely made up. Would it add more authenticity if he got his training during the 70's? Because in todays world most such masters have vanished and other arts like MMA have evolved. Actually in the modern setting, he would have over the years in the early days built on his organization from starting as a kung fu dojo to establishing now as an almost militant organization with owned companies, mixed martial arts, top workout gyms to female fitness, to all sorts of corporations of what sells today. Pretty much going against his deceased masters wishes.  

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_7a49debaec04835a835296b9ce044a2b'); }); If you write it then it's real in your story. Isn't that all that really matters?  

jannert Retired Mod Supporter Contributor

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_7a49debaec04835a835296b9ce044a2b'); }); It's hard for me to picture a lion as 'evil.' They are predators, but that's the way they're designed. They're carnivores, not scavengers or vegetarian farmers. When they're not hunting or eating, they tend to lie around in groups and just enjoy life. They are typical cats, really. Lovers of comfort. Culinary and otherwise. They are strong and fierce when they are hunting or defending themselves, but lazy when they're not. That doesn't make them evil. I'd struggle to make that connection. You see lions depicted on many coats of arms, and they are used to symbolise strength, courage, and 'kingly' qualities. (These are a human construct, but reflective of how human culture usually sees lion-ness.) Of course no breed of animal is 'evil,' but we do like to see some of them that way, if they seem inherently cold, repellent, dangerous, and non-cuddly. Sharks, poisonous snakes, crocodiles, etc. But we don't usually see lions that way. Heck, kids have much-loved cuddly lion stuffed toys. My sister had one.  

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_7a49debaec04835a835296b9ce044a2b'); }); You are right. Lions in general as in a symbol would not represent something inherently evil. They're considered in pop culture as bravery and well respected, like why kids love Lion King lol. I think I was trying to go for more of symbolizing the antagonist trying to express his leadership and success of progress and his strength accomplishments. Doesn't necessarily have to be evil. Hey it could be a way for him to throw everyone off guard by making his company and organization look courageous and inspiring so others will look up to him, even kids and adults could see him as a role model of success but not see what's really happening. Maybe I can do that? Unless this is a bad way to symbolize something as with the lion and maybe to show his colder side I should make it something like a shark symbol, king cobra or a giant crocodile?  

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_7a49debaec04835a835296b9ce044a2b'); }); TheMyst7885 said: ↑ You are right. Lions in general as in a symbol would not represent something inherently evil. They're considered in pop culture as bravery and well respected, like why kids love Lion King lol. I think I was trying to go for more of symbolizing the antagonist trying to express his leadership and success of progress and his strength accomplishments. Doesn't necessarily have to be evil. Hey it could be a way for him to throw everyone off guard by making his company and organization look courageous and inspiring so others will look up to him, even kids and adults could see him as a role model of success but not see what's really happening. Maybe I can do that? Unless this is a bad way to symbolize something as with the lion and maybe to show his colder side I should make it something like a shark symbol, king cobra or a giant crocodile? Click to expand...

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_7a49debaec04835a835296b9ce044a2b'); }); I could go with that. If he wants to create a pleasant scenery and look to inspire others when his true intentions are to bring fear and corruption can be truly more scarier to others. Especially for those who find out the truth. Something seen so majestic or cute could be a good way to deceive others? Like flipping the cliche? jannert said: ↑ The most unpleasant and abrasive boss I ever had during my working life was named Lovejoy. I mean, seriously. What? Geez.... We used to call him Snarlpiss behind his back. Click to expand...

badgerjelly Contributor Contributor

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_7a49debaec04835a835296b9ce044a2b'); }); TheMyst7885 said: ↑ I was thinking the same thing. I feel that making it a black lion symbol that's evil and relating it to Africa might seem just wrong. Maybe I can use some East Asian influence since I think the lion in some of East Asian culture it represents something evil? Or I could say that he just uses the lion symbol for his organization to represent his pride and accomplishments or strength and since he's American he could use that as his symbol of power? Or I could just go with something snake based like a king cobra or viper. Click to expand...

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_7a49debaec04835a835296b9ce044a2b'); }); Thanks, I really appreciate it What animal would represent someone who had been good but then defeated and had everything taken away from them and then rises back?  

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_7a49debaec04835a835296b9ce044a2b'); }); TheMyst7885 said: ↑ Thanks, I really appreciate it What animal would represent someone who had been good but then defeated and had everything taken away from them and then rises back? Click to expand...

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_7a49debaec04835a835296b9ce044a2b'); }); Thank you! I think I can look more into this and it will definitely help me.  

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The Lion's Roar

Lion Writers pen new chapter for aspiring authors on campus

Southeastern’s aspiring authors now have a safe, inviting hub to hone their literary works and connect with like-minded students: the Southeastern Lion Writers. The creative writing organization met in Ascension Hall 123 on Monday, Oct. 16, for its second-ever meeting.   

  Lion Writers is among the newest student organizations on campus. Lilith Finnell, a freshman English major, helms the fledgling organization alongside Anne Babson, an English teacher and the club’s faculty sponsor. 

At the meeting, Finnell presented members with a horror-themed PowerPoint focused on horror literary titans – specifically, Edgar Allen Poe, H.P. Lovecraft and Stephen King – and their contributions to the genre. 

Finnell talked about horror themes, such as the fear of the unknown or the fear of the unimaginable, two themes often examined in Lovecraft’s stories. 

Before the Lion Writers’ founding, the English department had two primary student organizations: the English Club and Sigma Tau Delta , the International English Honors Society. The club usually serves as a holding area for members looking to officially join the society. 

While both clubs are beneficial for English majors and writers in general, neither focus specifically on creative writing. Lion Writers will now serve to fill that gap in the department. 

Finnell concluded the presentation by giving attendees five minutes to write a horror narrative in groups. While members paired up, talked and laughed while drafting their stories, Finnell walked outside and sat under the green umbrella to discuss more about the club’s formation.  

According to Finnell, Brandon Sanderson, the famous fantasy writer, planted the idea for a creative writing club after she watched some of his lessons online. 

“I thought, ‘How awesome would it be if we could do [Sanderon’s] writing groups [at SLU]?’ Of course, I also wanted to meet other people who enjoyed writing like I did, so I got the word out to my friends and I told those friends to talk to their friends. From there, I started a Discord and told everyone to meet in the Student Union. Now, we’re doing it more often to make it a club,” Finnell explained. 

Finnell launched an Instagram account, with a logo featuring a lion clutching a pencil and holding a sheet of paper from its mouth. She announced the first meeting, which was on Sept. 21, and has since posted near-daily writing prompts and exercises for people to try. 

Taylor Davis, a freshman English major, talked about her involvement with the club’s development, including pitching ideas and creating Halloween-themed activities. 

“For October, we’re creating two different types of lists that members can choose from to write stories or poems and share them with the rest of the club,” Davis said. 

The creative writing club, in Finnell’s eyes, is meant to serve as a “connected system for all the writers on campus.” 

Sophomore social studies education major Jade DiMartino attended her first meeting and shared she feels the club succeeded in cultivating a supportive organization. 

“I think it’s a welcoming environment and a good environment to get in a headspace for writing since there are other people to assist you if you need it. I have a lot of ideas in my head and I can’t always put them into one story…if I get stuck on something, I need a better word choice or somebody else has a suggestion, I have that support around me,” DiMartino commented. 

Davis also commented on the club’s kind and welcoming atmosphere. 

“I think it’s an intimate setting because we’re all writers so we all have the same type of struggles when it comes to writing. We can critique each other in a friendly way,” Davis said. 

Through two meetings, Lion Writers has recruited a diverse array of club members. While most members are either English or art majors, a few break away from the traditional creative arts mold. Alongside DiMartino, there’s also Toby Lirette, a freshman biology major and Kimberly McKenzie, a freshman psychology major who serves as the club’s treasurer. 

Librette said she’s enjoying having a space “where we can explore our passions” that are unrelated to their “science things.” 

McKenzie said it never even occurred to her that the majority of members are creative art majors. 

“It’s just fun to spend time with people who have similar interests in writing. Major isn’t the main thing,” Mckenzie said.  

The club is very early in development, as it’s still looking for official recognition from the Office for Student Engagement. Finnell acknowledged the club is “malleable” and could head in a litany of different directions. From her perspective, she’d like to have more frequent meetings, see club members become more engaged via fun activities and potentially have members give presentations themselves. 

“I want to have that balance between lectures on how to read and write better while still keeping the club a place where people can spend time with their friends,” Finnell noted. 

Meetings alternate between Mondays and Thursdays. Visit their Instagram for more information on the Southeastern Lion Writers.

• Creative Writing

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• Understanding Climate Change on Tribal Allotment Lands
• Diversity Blooms Within The Queer Flower Bed
• Fighting Climate Change with Bee-utiful Pollinator Gardens

Creative Writing a Gateway to Creative Climate Solutions

How poetry and art are crucial in the climate crisis .

• by Malia Reiss
• May 06, 2024

“Raging Floods.” “Climate Migrants.” “Coral Reefs Gone.” These are the kinds of stories spanning today’s headlines. As temperatures are rising globally, morale is steadily sinking. 

New solutions are needed to combat this crisis, environmentally and emotionally. UC Davis creative writing master’s students and professors say that creative storytelling and art may be the keys to helping the world process these changes, and that collaborations with scientists can give rise to new, innovative solutions.

“Art and poetry are going to play a pivotal role in adapting human behavior to these new circumstances that are vastly different from anything we’ve known,” said poetry master’s student Trevor Bashaw . 

Imagining a better (or worse) future 

Free of limitations, art is a portal to reimagine the world.

In 2020, UC Davis English professor Michael Ziser and geology professor Nicholas Pinter took graduate students on a white water rafting trip down the Colorado River and through the Grand Canyon. They also invited two famous science fiction writers, Paolo Bacigalupi and Kim Stanley Robinson , both of whom write about a climate-apocalyptic world. 

“The advantage science fiction writers have is that they have license to completely reimagine things,” said Ziser. “They can just pose a solution and think about how it may work out. It encourages people to imagine, what world do they prefer to be a part of?” 

The authors and students entered the Grand Canyon on March 10, 2020. They emerged two weeks later to a world shut down amid a global pandemic. The merging of science and science fiction felt all too relevant.

Bacigalupi’s thriller novel, The Water Knife , tells a dark, futuristic story where the Southwestern U.S. is engaged in a violent war for water. Bacigalupi attended the Grand Canyon trip with graduate students studying the same river system he wrote about drying up. 

Robinson's novels also explore what the future may look like under continued corruption and failure to address world crises like climate change. On the trip, students read Robinson's Pacific Edge, part of his series depicting the future of California. 

By inviting these authors, Pinter and Ziser hoped to encourage the merging of art and science and to give graduate student scientists a new way of looking at the future of their study systems. 

“Any channel by which we can get more people from different walks of life to be thinking about these problems, the better,” said Ziser. “These problems require our coordinated response as a civilization.” 

Collaborations between scientists and artists can generate solutions that one party may not have been able to accomplish on its own. 

“Everyone is being asked to hyperspecialize, and I think that age is over,” said Ziser. “We need to keep a multi-pronged approach to understanding the world.” 

To poetry master’s student Bashaw, the divide between art and science isn’t clean cut, and separating the two can limit progress.

“The sciences and the arts have a lot to learn from each other, in terms of knowledge bases and methodologies,” said Bashaw. “The writer’s workshop is a lot more similar to a lab than people may realize; a lot of scientific discoveries were made through creative accidents; and art is pushed forward by technological advances.”  

With collaborations like these, new ways of thinking can emerge. Art can be a limitless tool toward furthering scientific discovery. 

“Everything is trapped by its genre. But when we try to imagine something radically different, we create something bigger,” said Pinter. 

Where processing has a place 

For creative solutions to be acted upon, policymakers, scientists, and the public need to reach common ground. UC Davis creative writing master’s students contend that art and writing not only generate innovative solutions, but also open gateways to these solutions. 

“With climate change, there’s a lot of grieving that we need to do as a community,” said Bashaw. “I don’t think we have even emotionally accepted it’s occurring.” 

Bashaw thinks that only when humanity can process the climate crises can the world come together to carry out solutions. To them, art is where processing has a place.

“In art and poetry, there can be more room for love and feeling and all of these things that make us human,” said Bashaw.

In their own writing, Bashaw draws parallels between processing the queer experience and processing the climate crisis. They describe their writing as “queer eco-poetics,” which focuses on how individuals relate to nature and constructed  environments. 

“Poetry can transform what feels scary into all kinds of different things and bring a sense of peace,” said Bashaw. “I want people to feel seen without shame.  I think of my writing as home-making and finding peace within place.” 

Connie Pearson, a creative nonfiction master’s student at UC Davis, also believes that art can bring to life the human emotional experience within major world crises.

“It’s a real sweet spot: seeing what’s going on, combined with how somebody is processing,” said Pearson. 

Pearson’s work comprises personal essays centered around her experiences being an animal activist. By diving into her vulnerable and personal experience, she hopes to humanize the activism she’s been part of since 1980. 

“Vulnerability is so crucial in writing,” said Pearson. “I connect so much more to pieces written from the personal lens.” 

Processing and healing 

Climate change is a global phenomenon, and will require everyone working together to reach a solution. This is a daunting task, but with solutions posed by both scientists and artists together, and with a shift in mindset, the future could heal. 

“Art allows you to sit with the unknown and ambiguity in a way that’s not paralyzing, but exciting,” said Bashaw. “We need to help people process and confront this looming phenomenon.”

Malia Reiss is a science news intern with UC Davis Strategic Communications. She studies environmental science and management at UC Davis.

Subscribe to the Science & Climate newsletter

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Kat Kerlin, UC Davis News and Media Relations, 530-750-9195, [email protected] 

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Chiefs’ Latest Comments Don’t Bode Well for Kadarius Toney Making Roster

Jordan foote | aug 14, 2024.

• Kansas City Chiefs

The Kansas City Chiefs ' wide receiver room continues to be a hot topic as training camp winds down, and for good reason. A spot or two is still squarely up for grabs, with several players competing for that finite amount of 53-man roster security.

Kadarius Toney, who was acquired via an in-season trade in 2022, is one of those end-of-depth-chart candidates. Unfortunately for him, his stock appears to be cratering instead of gaining steam now that one preseason outing is in the books.

Toney is entrenched in a battle with Mecole Hardman, Skyy Moore, Nikko Remigio and Justyn Ross for a supporting wideout role. Not all of those players will make the cut, but all except Toney played in the club's preseason opener against the Jacksonville Jaguars. With that in mind, head coach Andy Reid didn't have a ringing endorsement of Toney when he spoke to the media this week.

"Yeah, I mean, he was out here today working," Reid said. "It's just consistency. It's just a matter [of that]. With the competition, I tell all of them that. There's a ton of competition, and you've got to be on your game with that."

For the second training camp in a row, Toney is nursing an injury that's limited his availability. This time, it's an ankle ailment for the former first-round pick. On top of that, each of the players competing with him has a reason to make the team. Because Marquise "Hollywood" Brown is injured , Hardman's veteran experience could be relied on. Moore, a 2022 second-round pick, continues to get reps that coincide with someone who's set to pass through cutdown day. Remigio has shined in camp and doubles as a special teams option. Ross made a fantastic play in Saturday's game and is a different receiver archetype than the Chiefs otherwise have.

Where does that leave Toney? Whether you use context clues or put stock in the unofficial team depth chart , the conclusion is likely the same. He's on the outside looking in.

The problem is that Toney is running out of time to make a profound impact. Offensive coordinator Matt Nagy echoes Reid's sentiment, indicating that it's a matter of health and making his case.

"Kadarius, again, same thing," Nagy said. "It's just making sure he's just got to get healthy and get out there so we can see him and see the reps."

A year ago, Toney was expected to be a top-two wideout on the Chiefs. After a season filled with injuries and underwhelming play, he's now fighting for a spot that may have passed him up. His fifth-year option has already been declined , so this is effectively his last chance to stick. This weekend's game against the Detroit Lions – if he plays in it – is absolutely massive for his future.

It's just this writer's take, but Toney could be auditioning for another team just as much as he's doing so for the Chiefs right now. Kansas City sounds like a franchise whose patience has run thin.

Read More: Kingsley Suamataia Discusses NFL Debut – Has He Already Won the Left Tackle Job?

JORDAN FOOTE

Jordan Foote is the deputy editor of Arrowhead Report on SI.com, covering the Kansas City Chiefs. He also hosts the One Royal Way podcast on Kansas City Sports Network. Jordan is a Baker University alumnus, earning his degree in Mass Media. Follow him on X @footenoted. 

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Julianne Hough Had an ‘Awakening’ While Writing New Novel, Everything We Never Knew (Exclusive)

"I feel more clarity and understanding of what matters to me and what I want to put out into the world … I feel creative. I feel so in love," Hough tells PEOPLE

Julianne Hough has a story, and she’s ready to share it. 

In 2020, while going through what she calls a “huge transformational period,” Hough asked herself, “How can I create something that I can pour my experiences into without giving all of my details away, but that we'll all be able to relate to?” 

The result — after four years of introspection and writing — is Everything We Never Knew , a novel rooted in the 36-year-old’s life experiences. “What I found, it’s so overused and cliché but it really was an awakening,” Hough tells PEOPLE about writing the book, which comes out on Aug. 13, with author Ellen Goodlett. She adds, “I was starting to feel things and see things and have these really heightened awarenesses and senses activated in a way that I was like, ‘Whoa, this feels like magic and nobody's going to understand this because this is wild’.”

Sourcebooks

The Dancing With the Stars host channeled this “magic” into the story of a woman named Lexi who realizes that she can feel other people’s emotions and see into their personal memories. But that ability comes at a cost: she must also confront her past, which she has tried hard to suppress.

“I realized I can use the universal themes that everybody experiences: loss, grief, abandonment, betrayal, violation, all these things that we experience as the human collective,” Hough says. “I've been very, very intentional the last four years of just being as authentic and real as I can and not worrying about the narrative from the outside in, but from the inside out.”

Connecting with the character she was writing meant gaining a better understanding of herself, something Hough admits was not easy to do.

“It just opened this new curiosity up for me, and it started unraveling all the systems of protection that I had put into place for myself to keep me totally fine,” the Safe Haven actress says. “It was not the most easy journey to go through, but it was the one that allowed for all parts of me to exist, come out and then really, truly have a clean slate of who I am and what my intention is in this next phase of life.”

Gilbert Flores/Variety via Getty

As Hough did the work of recognizing “patterns and behaviors that were hiding her from her best, highest self," she had to dig deeper than she originally expected.

“I thought all of my trauma really was from 10 years old to 15, but I've realized, ‘Oh my gosh, I had so much before that’,” Hough recalls. “Our parents do the best job that they know how to do in the moment, so it's not about blaming or shunning or shaming. It's about acknowledging, confronting and then recognizing that we can take ourselves and heal generational wounds.”

Hough says her life now feels like it is in full blossom. “I really feel like a harvest, like an absolute abundance of planting seeds for many years, unraveling things that weren't working before,” she says. “I feel more clarity and understanding of what matters to me and what I want to put out into the world … I feel creative. I feel so in love.”

While the Footloose actress says she is not in love with anyone or anything specifically, she tells PEOPLE she is ready to open her heart again after separating from ex-husband Brooks Laich in 2020 and divorcing in 2022 .

“I needed time for myself. I needed to sit in the uncomfortable stillness of, ‘I feel so alone right now’,” Hough says. “I will say in the last year and a half, my heart has been able to start opening ... I have so much love to give. I cannot wait to pour it out.”

As she looks ahead to her book release, Hough is excited for people to connect with the story. “My experiences from this book, Lexi's experiences in this book, I don't think that they are unique to individuals,” she says. “I think that everybody has the ability to tap into these spiritual senses, and it's all about timing. It's about openness, curiosity and willingness to surrender to what's possible.”

Never miss a story — sign up for  PEOPLE's free daily newsletter  to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

As for the next chapter in her life story, Hough is taking her own advice and welcoming whatever comes next. “I want to just be in a place that feels really easy, calm and vibrant, and allow things to come in that are supposed to be for me,” she says. “The fear of change has turned into the joy of transformation.”

Everything We Never Knew  is out Aug. 13 from Sourcebooks Landmark and is available for preorder now, wherever books are sold.

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Creative hobbies may greatly benefit mental health

Painting, woodworking, writing: Whatever you turn to creatively, it could equal or exceed work in terms of maintaining mental health, new research shows.

"Crafting and other artistic activities showed a meaningful effect in predicting people's sense that their life is worthwhile," said study lead author Dr. Helen Keyes , of Anglia Ruskin University in Britain. Advertisement

"Indeed, the impact of crafting was bigger than the impact of being in employment," she added. "Not only does crafting give us a sense of achievement, it is also a meaningful route to self-expression. This is not always the case with employment."

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Folks were asked about their level of participation in cultural, digital and sporting activities.

People were also queried about their levels of loneliness and "sensations of happiness, anxiety and life satisfaction, and to give their impression of whether life is worthwhile," according to a journal news release.

More than a third (37.4%) of respondents said they'd been involved in some kind of arts or crafts activity over the past month. Advertisement

People who engaged in a creative pursuit scored higher in terms of happiness, life satisfaction and the sense that life is worthwhile, compared to folks who weren't involved in arts or crafts, the researchers found.

"The well-being effects were present even after we accounted for things like employment status and level of deprivation," Keyes said in a journal news release. "It seems that crafting can contribute positively to your well-being above and beyond these other aspects of your life."

Perhaps because many arts and crafts are done while alone, engagement didn't seem to affect people's levels of loneliness.

The study was only designed to show associations, so it could not prove cause and effect.

In her own life, Keyes said she's an avid devotee of DIY projects such as painting and decorating.

"There is certainly something immensely satisfying about seeing the results of your work appear before your eyes," she said. "It feels great to focus on one task and engage your mind creatively."

Policymakers might want to take guidance from the new findings, Keyes said.

"Governments and national health services might consider funding and promoting crafting, or even socially prescribing these activities for at-risk populations, as part of a promotion and prevention approach to well-being and mental health," she said. Advertisement

More information

Find out more about the benefits of being creative at the American Psychiatric Association .

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Creative Writing doctoral student Abhijit Sarmah named for the second consecutive year as finalist for major poetry fellowship

For the second year in a row, UGA doctoral student Abhijit Sarmah is among 12 finalists for the  2024 Ruth Lilly and Dorothy Sargent Rosenberg Poetry Fellowships . The five Fellowship recipients, who were announced today , will each receive $27,000 and an invitation to publish in  Poetry magazine . All 12 finalists will receive a stipend to attend a professional development opportunity of their choice.

The Poetry Foundation awards five Ruth Lilly and Dorothy Sargent Rosenberg Poetry Fellowships annually. Among the largest awards offered to young poets in the US, the prize is intended to support exceptional US poets between 21 and 31 years of age. The fellowships were established in 1989 by the Indianapolis philanthropist Ruth Lilly and expanded in 2013 with a gift from the Dorothy Sargent Rosenberg Memorial Fund.

“Being named a finalist for the prestigious Ruth Lilly and Dorothy Sargent Rosenberg Poetry Fellowship is really an honor. I am deeply grateful to Professor LeAnne Howe, Professor Barbara McCaskill, Professor Andrew Zawacki and Professor Aruni Kashyap for their support and guidance throughout the application process for this fellowship and beyond. Their faith in my work inspires me to keep achieving bigger milestones. Also heartfelt thanks to the wonderful folks at Willson Center— especially Professor Nicholas Allen, Winnie Smith and Dave Marr— who provide opportunities to interact with prominent poets like A.E. Stallings and Stephen Sexton. Those interactions have taught me a lot, including how to navigate the literary world and edit my own work.” -Abhijit Sarmah

A UGA Arts Lab Graduate Fellow and Ruth Pack Scholar, Sarmah is working on a hybrid memoir and a poetry collection, tentatively titled  Potential Insurgent . Apart from his scholarly and creative work, he volunteers for various events and organizations at UGA, and was a selection committee member for Backlight Student Film Festival, a planning committee member for the International Street Festival and social chair for the English Graduate Organisation. He was awarded a 2024 Michael G. Moran Graduate Student Award by the Department of English at UGA. Currently, he is serving as the guest editor of poetry for  The Headlight Review (Kennesaw State University). 

"I have worked with Abhijit Sarmah for two years at the University of Georgia. A son of Assam, India, Sarmah's poetry is a kaleidoscope of emotions and images provoked by the Indian army’s indiscriminate violence in Assam. Sarmah writes from the experiences of a young man whose friends must flee to survive, violence against his loved ones at the hands of Indian soldiers and numerous events that made many around him take arms against their own country. Yet, Abhijit's poetry is not just an exploration of Indian army's cruelty against the Assamese, it's also a vehicle for memories of a brother's laughter, his sister's experiments in cooking, adventures with boyhood friends, and the community of townspeople he grew up with. His work blisters the heart." -LeAnne Howe  Eidson Distinguished Professor of American Literature &  Director of the Institute of Native American Studies

“This honor speaks to the strength of Abhijit’s work. We are very proud to have him as a student in our PhD program!” -Magdalena Zurawski  Associate Professor of English and Creative Writing &  Director of Creative Writing

Abhijit Sarmah

Abhijit Sarmah is a poet and researcher specializing in Indigenous literatures. He holds a Master of Philosophy (MPhil.) degree from Dibrugarh University, India and is currently pursuing a PhD at the University of Georgia in Athens GA, USA. He is also a UGA Arts Lab Graduate Fellow (2022-25) and has received such honors as the Ruth Pack Scholarship from the Institute of Native American Studies and Michael G. Moran Graduate Student Award from the Department of English at UGA. His work has been published in a range of print and online journals, including Poetry , The Margins , Lunch Ticket , Glassworks Magazine , Porter House Review , and The Lincoln Review . Sarmah was a finalist for the prestigious Ruth Lilly and Dorothy Sargent Rosenberg Poetry Fellowships for two consecutive years (2023 and 2024) and has received nominations for the Best of the Net and The Pushcart Prize.

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