The Shiny Dime Challenge

A Shiny Dime is a specific and surprising idea. It's the singular focus of a piece of writing. And it's a concept that will help you capture attention in a crowded world.

Hey writers,

This week, you learned how to embrace complexity to arrive at simplicity. Now, it’s time to put it into practice. Here’s your writing prompt for week two of the Shiny Dime Challenge:

Write an article that makes sense of something confusing.

“Writing is thinking. To write well is to think clearly. That’s why it’s so hard.” – David McCullough

The writers you admire aren’t necessarily smarter or more capable than you. They’ve just done the work to make it through complexity, into simplicity. And you can too. 

As you decide what to write about, consider a topic that may be confusing to others, but simple to you. Here are some examples:

• Options trading
• The inner workings of regenerative agriculture
• The meaning of your favorite poem
• The significance of Palm Sunday in the Catholic faith
• How to make sourdough from scratch
• The origin of the imperial system of measurement
• Secrets of greenwashing in the beauty industry
• All the different ways a star can die

If you need more inspiration, look no further than Richard Feynman. Feynman was one of the great scientists of our time, winning a Nobel Prize for his work in quantum mechanics. Plus, he was known for his ability to simplify complex topics with ease. 

His secret? “The Feynman Technique.”

1. Select a concept to learn.
2. Explain it to a child.
3. Refine your understanding.
4. Organize your notes.

As you write, ask yourself: How would I explain this to a child? How can I take a complex idea and turn it into something clear and concise? 

Use the practice of writing as a mode of thinking. It will help you figure out what you’re trying to say. Most likely, it will be uncomfortable. You’ll have to wade through complexity before you arrive at simplicity. But slowly, as writing forces you to think deeply and structure your thoughts, your Shiny Dime will emerge. 

What’s something that you understand that most people find confusing? This week, try to make sense of it, and work toward a specific, surprising idea.

Good luck, and happy writing! 

The Write of Passage Team 

Don't forget to post your writing in Circle. That way, others can read your work. And while you’re at it, like, comment, and leave feedback! Use the Circle community to connect with your peers and find inspiration.