by Suzanne Lieurance
I’ve coached many writers to write a memoir, and sometimes they start out unsure about what a memoir actually is and what it isn’t.
They tend to confuse memoir with autobiography.
Here’s how I would define memoir by what it is and what it isn’t.
What a Memoir Is
#1. A Personal Narrative
A memoir is a form of autobiographical writing that focuses on specific moments, themes, or periods in the author’s life.
It is highly personal and reflective.
#2. Focused in Scope
Unlike a full autobiography, which covers the author’s entire life, a memoir zooms in on a particular aspect, event, or series of events.
It often explores the emotional and psychological impacts of these experiences.
#3. A Subjective Perspective
Memoirs are inherently subjective.
They present the author’s personal recollections and interpretations of events, emphasizing feelings, reactions, and insights.
#4. Written with Literary Style
Memoirs are written with a narrative flair, often employing literary techniques such as dialogue, description, and character development to engage readers.
#5. Based on Truth and Honesty
While memoirs are based on true events, they often prioritize emotional truth and personal perception over strict factual accuracy.
This means they may include reconstructed dialogue and scenes to convey the essence of the experiences.
#6. Includes Self-Reflection
Memoirs include introspection and self-analysis, offering the author’s reflections on their experiences and how these have shaped their identity and worldview.
What a Memoir Is Not
#1. Not a Complete Life Story
Unlike an autobiography, a memoir does not aim to cover the author’s entire life.
It is not a comprehensive chronological account but rather a focused exploration of specific themes or periods.
#2. Not a Historical Account
Memoirs are not objective histories.
They are personal narratives that provide insight into the author’s internal world and subjective experience rather than an impartial recounting of historical facts.
#3. Not Fiction
While memoirs may use creative storytelling techniques, they are grounded in the author’s real experiences.
They are not works of fiction, though the boundary between fact and interpretation can sometimes blur.
#4. Not Objective Reporting
Memoirs do not strive for journalistic objectivity.
They are not about presenting multiple viewpoints or balanced accounts; they are about the author’s unique perspective.
#5. Not an Anonymous Account
Memoirs are deeply personal and linked to the author’s identity.
They are not written anonymously and often reveal intimate details about the author’s life and thoughts.
#6. Not an Instruction Manual
Memoirs are not self-help books or instructional guides.
While they may offer insights and lessons, their primary purpose is to tell a story rather than to provide advice or step-by-step guidance.
In short, a memoir is a book about the author’s personal experiences.
It gives readers a look into the author’s life and thoughts, focusing more on feelings and reflections than on complete factual accuracy.
For more about memoir, read this post by Joanne M. Lozar Glennm – Telling Your Story Your Way: Creating a Memoir.
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