Alexis, your fourth point particularly resonated with me: a memoir is not simply a chronology of events, but an exploration of how those experiences shaped us.
I have completed a four-volume memoir spanning my childhood during China's Cultural Revolution and my later journey in America. One of my greatest discoveries in writing it was that the meaning of an experience often becomes clear only many years later.
I also appreciate your reminder to write for reasons deeper than fame or financial reward. For me, memoir writing has been a way to understand a life across changing times, cultures, and personal circumstances.
You’re welcome! Not sure if I’m qualified to give advice (yet!). But just sharing what I’m learning along the way. I noticed you’re working on a memoir, too. What’s it about?
That’s kind to ask. Right now it’s my journey to shed beliefs, value systems, ideologies, and other mindsets in order to become the person I want to be in the second half of my life.
These are really helpful nuggets of advice. Thank you! And I hear you on the chronology. It is more about the continuity of themes than time. Good luck and keep going!
Alexis, your fourth point particularly resonated with me: a memoir is not simply a chronology of events, but an exploration of how those experiences shaped us.
I have completed a four-volume memoir spanning my childhood during China's Cultural Revolution and my later journey in America. One of my greatest discoveries in writing it was that the meaning of an experience often becomes clear only many years later.
I also appreciate your reminder to write for reasons deeper than fame or financial reward. For me, memoir writing has been a way to understand a life across changing times, cultures, and personal circumstances.
Thank you for sharing these thoughtful lessons.
You’re welcome! Thanks for your thoughtful comment. I love writing exactly for that reason: to find meaning. ❤️
Great advice, thank you!
You’re welcome! Not sure if I’m qualified to give advice (yet!). But just sharing what I’m learning along the way. I noticed you’re working on a memoir, too. What’s it about?
That’s kind to ask. Right now it’s my journey to shed beliefs, value systems, ideologies, and other mindsets in order to become the person I want to be in the second half of my life.
Love that! I'm in that phase of life too. ;) Good luck!
These are really helpful nuggets of advice. Thank you! And I hear you on the chronology. It is more about the continuity of themes than time. Good luck and keep going!
Thanks for reading, Edie! And for the motivation! ;) I'll continue sharing more stuff/nuggets as I learn! <3