Trees don't grow to the sky

Some writers get the story down before they start to figure out what it’s all about. Others need their theme in hand – but may have trouble simplifying a philosophy. If you’re flailing about for a universal truth to get your writerly jaw into, a good place to seek inspiration is a list of proverbs. A proverb is usually a metaphor and often encapsulates in simple terms, a lesson from the common experience of humanity. Sit down and have a think about the specific meaning of the following and then go freewrite a story illustrating this philosophy. I’d love to hear how you get on!

Graveyards are full of indispensable people.

You can catch more flies with honey than you can with vinegar.

A little learning is a dangerous thing.

The belly has no ears.

Trees don’t grow to the sky.

A dumb priest never got a parish.

The only free cheese is in the mousetrap.

Eaten bread is soon forgotten.

Got any you’d care to share?