A memoir is a literary genre that is a subcategory of autobiography focused on personal experiences and themes rather than a complete life story. Memoirs have a flexible chronology and use vignettes rather than a novel structure. They are written for an audience other than the author and with a focus on plot lines rather than daily records like a diary. Reasons for writing a memoir include leaving a legacy, sharing a story, or reflecting on one's life and experiences. Famous memoirists of the past and present are mentioned.

2. What is a memoir?
 En Français: mémoire (memory or reminiscence)
 A literary genre,
subclass of
autobiography.
 An account of one's
personal life and
experiences.

3. Memoir vs. Autobiography
Memoir Autobiography
Structure Vignettes Novel
Focus Theme Entire life story
Chronology Flexible Birth to old age

4. Memoir vs. Diary
Memoir Diary
 Focus on plot lines  Record of events,
and patterns. observations.
 Written with scenes.  Kept daily.
 Audience = others.  Audience =
self.

5. Why Write a Memoir?
 Fame and old age
 Desire to leave a legacy or share a story
 To reflect

6. Why Not to Publish a Memoir
 Because, sadly, yo
u’re probably not
famous.

7. Famous Memoirists
 Past: Cassanova,
St.
Augustine, Jean-
Jacques Rousseau
 Present: Joan
Didion

8. Memoir Topics
 Specific moment or event
that influenced a thought or epiphany
 Recurring theme or motif in your life
 Family
background, relationships

9. Writing Tips
 Show, don’t tell.
 Details, details, details.
 Use different senses to describe.
 Write like you talk.
 Use simple sentences.
 Start in the middle.
 Read what you wrote out loud.

10. Six Word Memoir
 Online fad
 Summerize your life, or an event in six words
“I learned laughter is a language.”

14. Suggested Topics
 A childhood memory
 The best day of your life
(or the worst)
 Recent trip or vacation
 Relationship with
parents, children, friends, boyfriend or
girlfriend
 What did you do yesterday?
 What have you learned recently?
 Your hobbie