I know many writers use a prompt to get going. Although I hardly qualify myself as a writer, I always use a prompt, even if it is something as simple as a reaction to something I heard somewhere.

Does coffee count as a prompt?

Lately, I have found that all my writing comes from articles I read and the authors get me to thinking. This is good, right?

So I’ve coined a term for this style of writing: Riffing off. This word accurately describes of how I write. It’s kind of like ripping off, but more than that – I take what someone starts, expound upon it, and maybe make a little headway on furthering the issue.

There is no copyright or legality here. Just like Shakespeare, my made-up words are a gift to the world. Feel free to riff off at will.