Neurodivergent Narratives Presents: The ‘Falling in Love’ Open Contest - Writing Prompt #36
A contest that captures the magic of Autistic love in its first spark.
A HUGE thank you to everyone who's taking part in our ongoing writing contests we’re hosting through the podcast. For these last 2 prompts in the contest, everyone is still welcome to participate, whether you are a paying supporter or not; however, there will not be podcast episodes to announce these contests.
Here is contest 11 of 12!
PROMPT: Write about the moment two Autistic people — real or imagined — realize they’re falling in love.
Love stories shape how we understand connection. For Autistic people, love often blooms in the most unexpected, honest, and beautifully unconventional ways. This prompt invites you to write about that tender, powerful moment when two Autistic people, whether real or imagined, realize they are falling in love. It might begin with shared stims, overlapping special interests, or a quiet sense of being deeply known. These stories offer a refreshing alternative to tired romance tropes and create space for relationships that reflect Autistic truth.
⚠️Your ‘meet-cute’ love story may not be any longer than 500 words.
THE ESSENTIALS:
🖊️ Open to: Everyone
🗓️ Deadline: Wednesday, July 23rd at 12 PM ET / 5 PM UK
💷 Prize: £10 each week
📘 Publication: Winning entries go on our Substack and in the annual Neurodivergent Narratives anthology
THE RULES:
No Plagiarism
No Hate Speech
No Explicit or Graphic Content
Submit as many times as you wish
You do not need to be present or subscribe to participate
Entries after the deadline will not be considered
All decisions are final
Full Contest Rules are here.
This isn’t therapy.
This is voice reclamation.
Submit entry.
Let Your Voice Be Heard.
💌 Good luck, writers. We’re saving you a seat.
The energy and creativity have been amazing as you lean into your weird through writing! Angela can't wait to read what you’ve all been working on this week!
For those who haven’t seen or heard the Neurodivergent Narrative series, each week brings a new writing tip, a featured winner, and a new prompt to explore your neurodivergent identity. Whether you're a seasoned writer or just getting started, this is your chance to get published, get heard, and maybe even get paid!
📌 Here’s the deal:
To keep things fair and organized, the only way to enter the contest is by submitting through the official submission link. That’s it! No exceptions.
This helps us ensure every entry is accounted for, judged fairly, and in the same format!
You can use the button below to submit your entry or keep reading for a reminder of this week’s prompt and contest rules!
Use the hashtag #autisticlove on social media to share this contest.
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Hello, Angela and team! I've been trying to connect with you because I have a movie about a neurodivergent teen with synesthesia, dropping 7/22 (this coming Tuesday!). I couldn't find a place to message you directly. The trailer is here (leans a bit more on the kid side, but the movie is totally for adults as well - I'd say PG): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KE0-7qphvgY
Stars several familiar faces such as Steven He, Colin Mochrie, Tara Strong, etc.
I also have an earlier film (from 2022) following the adventures of an autistic older teen, although the word is never mentioned.
If you'd like to speak, I'd love to connect with you, potentially collaborate on a post. Thanks so much! Given how soon our release is coming, I would love to connect soon. You can email me, too, at nicolarosemail@gmail.com. Thanks!