This year we are exploring ideas about memoir writing in addition to sharing our stories. In March we considered memoir writer Louisa Deasey’s recommendation to prepare a key sentence when writing memoir as a way of retaining focus, and the role of universal themes in memoir.
Our sharing of stories on the topics ‘Too Hard Basket’ and ‘New in Town’ was most enjoyable – common experiences often emerge as our stories are shared. Most writers overcame the problem in danger of remaining in their too hard basket, while those choosing ‘New in Town’ reflected on strategies used to successfully settle in, to make connections with others, when new to town.
500-word topics for our next class on Monday 26th April from 2 – 4 pm:
‘A memoir which has meant something to me’ Head for your bookshelf, the library or an online bookstore to retrieve a memoir which has meant something to you. When did it enter your life? How did it then, or does it now, relate to your life story? What might have been Louisa Deasey’s key sentence for the book? What universal truth/s does it relate to.
Alternate topics (for newer members to class)
‘Someone who shaped me’ - How did you become who you are? Think about someone who has influenced your life and start writing.
Additional topic – ‘Anzac Day’ – perhaps Anzac Day triggered, or often triggers, particular memories for you, or reminds you of a story you heard as a child. Share this story in 500 words.
Beverley Lee
Our sharing of stories on the topics ‘Too Hard Basket’ and ‘New in Town’ was most enjoyable – common experiences often emerge as our stories are shared. Most writers overcame the problem in danger of remaining in their too hard basket, while those choosing ‘New in Town’ reflected on strategies used to successfully settle in, to make connections with others, when new to town.
500-word topics for our next class on Monday 26th April from 2 – 4 pm:
‘A memoir which has meant something to me’ Head for your bookshelf, the library or an online bookstore to retrieve a memoir which has meant something to you. When did it enter your life? How did it then, or does it now, relate to your life story? What might have been Louisa Deasey’s key sentence for the book? What universal truth/s does it relate to.
Alternate topics (for newer members to class)
‘Someone who shaped me’ - How did you become who you are? Think about someone who has influenced your life and start writing.
Additional topic – ‘Anzac Day’ – perhaps Anzac Day triggered, or often triggers, particular memories for you, or reminds you of a story you heard as a child. Share this story in 500 words.
Beverley Lee
