Memoirs

Prof. Miguel A. Arce Ramos

English 11th

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 Content
What is a memoir?

Characteristics

Overview

Organization
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 Memoir
The word memoir comes from the Latin word memoria. It
means memory.

A memoir is an autobiographical narration of a true story.

Memoirs are non-fictional because they are a recount of

real- life events.

They concentrate on an instant or particular moment.

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 Characteristics
The development of a memoir centers on the writers relationship with a
specific person, place, animal or thing.

In other words, the narrative does not focus on the writer, but rather on a
relationship with others.

It is about the feeling generated in that person through the existence of a

particular bond or connection with someone else, an event or a place.

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 Characteristics
A memoir is not just a retelling of an event; its an exploration
through the thoughts, emotions, and importance tied to that
event, by the author.

Memoir isnt the summary of a life; its a window into a slice of

life.

Different people may experience the same event in different

ways.
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Differences between Memoirs, Biographies
and Autobiographies

a usually written history of a

Biography person's life.

the biography of a person

Autobiography narrated by himself or herself.

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 Characteristics
A memoir is not just a retelling of an event; its an exploration
through the thoughts, emotions, and importance tied to that event,
by the author.

Memoir isnt the summary of a life; its a window into a slice of life.

Different people may experience the same event in different ways.

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 Overview
In order to write an effective memoir, it is important to note the a memorable event
that occurred to the writer that he/she can describe in detail.

A good memoir has many details and has had a deep influence on you as a person.

Remember, writing is to be shared so ask yourself:

do you feel comfortable sharing this detail
did you learn something from this experience
is there an overall message to share that can help others

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 Overview
Out of your entire life experiences, you have chosen to share a specific
memory with others.

Therefore, your audience will be curious as to the effect of that particular

moment in your life. Make sure you include it!

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 Overview
Remember that memoirs are a type of autobiography in which the reader
is eager to know the writer as a human being.

More than just telling a true story, they communicate the impact that event
had in your life.

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 Organization
The writing of a memoir is similar to writing a story.
An interesting memoir will have the following:

Strong
introduction that
A good title A problem Plot
introduces the
problem

Details and
Connection to the A solution to the
something A new viewpoint
reader problem
questioned

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