Time sure flys when summer gets here, doesn't it? It's already August 1st. Unfortunately, summer's not my only excuse for missing my schedule of two blogs every month again. You see I decided to discuss memoir writing, but I couldn't find my notes until last night, and then someone else in the family was busy with the computer.
Everyone has a story in them to tell. Be it from early childhood, teen years, or as an adult. I'm sure if Mr. Bear in the picture above could speak our language he'd have one heck of a tale or two to share too.
A Memoir is not the same as an autobiography. An autobiography covers a timeline from birth to old age. The memoir focuses on a specific time in the person's life. For example, the time you and your twin had your tonsils out; a specific travel experience; the birth of a child; a military experience. An author friend of mine wrote what his life was like living with eight siblings.
Your memoir can cover other subjects too like a serious illness you or a family member suffered. And don't forget about the raging fire, tornado, hurricane or flood that swept through your town.
Before you get started writing, make a list of the most significant things that have occurred in your life. Then ask yourself the following questions:
1.What's the purpose of the story/book? 2.Who is your audience? 3.What makes the topic you've chosen interesting?
No matter what topic you finally select to write about remember to open up and share your emotions, use the five senses.
When I attended a memoir writing class years ago, the instructor recommended we partner up with another person writing memoirs to get feedback. That's an excellent suggestion.
Here are a few topics I've written about over the years and shared only in a writer's group. Pillars of Strength (remembering two terrific male neighbors on the lake). Until Death Do Us Part (about the death of a loved one). A Mere Stumble Makes A Difference (the 4th of July I broke my ankle). Meditation on My Mother (glimpses of my 92-year-old mother). Pilgrimage for Dad (Trip with family to Ireland after Dad died).
Memoirs aren't hard to write. Just remember to make a list of possible topics first and then select the one that draws your emotions out and strongly engages the reader.
Happy writing.
Until Next Time
This is Marlene Chabot
Mystery Novelist
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