Memoir+Resource+Page

Memoir Resource Page Getting started on your memoir:

Step 1 - What is a memoir?

Memoirs are recounts, which also weave in reflections upon the events and discussion of their significance in the life of the author. Memoirs can take various forms and serve various purposes. Shorter versions capture a single pivotal event or life experience. Longer versions, can include a full autobiography, or describe critical events, peak experiences, and major turning points which may span years. Your memoir will focus on a particular //pivotal life experience// (that of the newspaper article you were allocated).

There are many views on what the function of a memoir is; suggestions have been made that the memoir form is carthartic, or healing. Alternative views on the topic insist that memoir is an attempt to recreate the past and resurrect the dead or elements of one's personality which are no longer present. Think about WHY you would write a memoir about the event which you have been allocated. Consider the //PURPOSE// of recording reflections on the event, and how the memoir form specifically would accomplish this purpose (or perhaps not accomplish it).

Step 2 - What are the features of a memoir?

Memoirists use narrative plot structure to recount events whilst directly or indirectly conveying the significance of these events. Each of the narrative elements are outlined for you below:

__Plot structure:__
Problem Desire
 * Beginning: Initiating incident

Friction between plan for achieving desire and obstacles Development of desire Precipitating event
 * Middle: Struggle with adversity

Climax Realisation
 * Conclusion: Crisis

The features of a memoir are explored in detail using examples and explanations on the following website : Memories into Memoirs Visit and explore this resource before you begin writing your memoir.

Step 3: Beginning a memoir

Memories into Memoirs provides a 13-step guide to writing and structuring your memoir. It includes ideas for developing aspects of the composition such as character, setting, theme and style of representation, whilst drawing upon the elements of plot which you have investigated via the link in Step 2.

Remember that this form of text draws upon your memory of the events (your memories being those of a character in the article), and so whilst you may research aspects of your event if you need to, the topics we are focusing on (representation and history and memory) allow you to take creative license with the events and experiences you 'remember'.

Step 4 : Evaluate and Edit

Edit your memoir using the evaluation criteria provided, modelled and explained on the Memories to Memoirs page under the subheadings of:
 * ===**Content**===
 * ===**Readability**===
 * ===**Impact**===

Step 5: Publish your memoir

Your memoir must be at least 500 words, and no more than 1000 words. Upload it to the page of the newspaper article you were allocated by 'editing' the page and adding a link to your file or pasting the text onto the page along with your name and the name of the persona you adopted.If you are unsure how to do this please see the 'Help' link at the top right hand corner of the page.