It’s a common misconception that a great idea makes a great story. The truth is that most great stories come down to execution. A great idea with poor execution rarely works, but a great writer can breathe new life into even the most tired tropes.
Like any writer, I have my own treasure trove of ideas that might end up in a story…someday. But why horde them? Instead, I’m opening the vault and setting them free.
Feel free to use these ideas as a weekly writing prompt, or come up with your own twist and reply in the comments.
Idea of the Week – Garbage Miner
In the future, all sorts of resources are scarce. Precious metals that were once easily strip mined from the surface have now been exhausted. Luckily, new processes and advances in biotech make possible the separation and disassembly of all sorts of materials.
The rise in prices of many commodities makes it cost-efficient to mine the past. Huge companies crop up to dig up and process old landfills. Historic buildings are stripped for parts and rebuilt with futuristic, cheap materials. In some places, the flora, fauna, and the soil itself are churned up for the valuable trace elements absorbed from previous centuries’ pollution.
What are the consequences of these shortages? How do these new “mines” and “factories” impact the communities around them. Are people desperate for the lifestyle these once-ubiquitous materials afford them? Or do they try to change society so we can all live comfortably (or uncomfortably) without?
Words Deferred 
Your blog, The Story Idea Vault — Garbage Miner, is a brilliant exploration of how unique and unconventional concepts can spark truly compelling storytelling. Your ability to take an unusual premise and showcase its narrative potential highlights both your creativity and deep understanding of science fiction’s limitless possibilities. The way you break down the idea’s strengths and opportunities makes this an inspiring read for writers and world-builders alike. Excellent work in turning an offbeat concept into a treasure trove of storytelling potential!
LikeLiked by 1 person