Fictional Fixation

The Writing Prompt:

In 1920s New York City, a renowned historian stumbles upon a peculiar, long-forgotten journal that once belonged to an infamous detective from the late 1800s. The journal details a chilling unsolved case that involves a series of disappearances within the city’s upper crust. The historian, intrigued by the mystery and fascinated by the detective’s sharp mind, decides to investigate the cold case further.

As the historian delves into the past, they begin to uncover startling connections between the detective’s investigation and several prominent families still living in the city. Old clues resurface, including a strange symbol, a secret society, and rumors of a hidden treasure that may have been the motive for the crimes. But the more the historian uncovers, the more they realize that the case might not be as closed as they thought. It becomes clear that someone is determined to keep the secrets of the past buried, and the historian must decide whether to continue their dangerous search for the truth—or abandon the case before it consumes them.

Tips for Writing This Prompt:

1. Blend History with Fiction: The 1920s setting offers a rich historical backdrop. Use real historical events and figures to ground the story in reality, but blend in fictional elements such as the mysterious detective and the secret society to create intrigue and tension. Readers should feel as though they’re stepping into a vivid historical world with a shadowy mystery at its core.
2. Create a Compelling Detective: Even though the detective from the past is long gone, their investigation should leave a lasting impact. Think about their personality, their methods, and their legacy. What made them different from others in their field? This can provide clues to how the historian navigates their own investigation and unravel the tangled web of the past.
3. Weave the Past and Present Together: The historian in the present day is not only uncovering old documents and records, but also physically revisiting locations from the past—whether it’s an old mansion, a hidden underground speakeasy, or a forgotten library. Let the setting itself serve as a bridge between the present and the past, creating an eerie connection between the two eras.
4. Use Symbolism and Mystical Elements: The mysterious symbol mentioned in the journal can serve as a key to unlocking the mystery. Whether it’s an ancient sigil, a family crest, or something more arcane, make sure it’s a focal point that leads the historian toward hidden truths. Symbolism can also be used to hint at deeper meanings and connections between the characters and the mystery.
5. Introduce a Sense of Urgency: The closer the historian gets to the truth, the more dangerous their quest becomes. Introduce obstacles and antagonists that want to stop them from uncovering the case’s secrets—whether it’s a mysterious figure following them, a rival historian, or even people from the old families involved in the original case. The more the historian learns, the more they realize they’re being watched, adding a layer of suspense.
6. Incorporate Red Herrings: A good historical mystery needs twists and turns. Include plenty of false leads and seemingly unrelated clues that will mislead both the historian and the readers. This will keep the mystery unpredictable and engaging, as readers try to figure out who or what is behind the disappearances.
7. Focus on the Investigator’s Personal Stakes: The historian’s personal involvement in the case should increase as the investigation unfolds. Do they have a personal connection to one of the families involved? Have they lost someone to the same mysterious forces? Exploring these personal stakes will deepen the emotional connection between the protagonist and the readers.

This historical mystery prompt will challenge you to merge elements of the past with an exciting and suspenseful narrative. As your historian uncovers secrets buried for decades, you’ll have the opportunity to explore themes of legacy, obsession, and the power of knowledge.

Will your historian uncover the truth before the past catches up with them? Or will the weight of history prove too much to bear?

Take a deep dive into a historical enigma—where the past never truly stays buried.