Writing the Memoir

(Paperback)

Publishing Details

Classifications

Physical Properties

Description

A guide for the writer just setting out, or for those already embroiled in the task of writing anything based on personal experience. Aiming to avoid oversimplifying what is involved, Judith Barrington tackles both the emotional issues, such as reliving painful memories, and the practical ones, such as bringing stories and people to life on the page, and finding the appropriate form in which to write. She talks about the subtleties of the relationship between factual and emotional truth and the distinction between initial reaction to trauma and the writing of layered experience after the lapse of time. While writing memoir or, in broader terms, writing from personal experience, is the book's focus, its step-by-step approach and exercises also provide accessible advice for the development of writing skills in general. It includes advice and exercises about finding form, planning dialogue, dealing with time and using description.

Author Bio

Judith Barrington is the author of a full-length memoir, Lifesaving, and many shorter memoirs that have been published in literary magazines and anthologies. Her memoir, Poetry and Prejudice, won the Andres Berger Award for Creative Nonfiction. She is the author of two volumes of poetry, each of which contains a memoir. She has taught creative writing for the past fifteen years at universities, and summer writing workshops.