memoir structure
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To Outline or Not to Outline Your Memoir
One early decision most memoirists face is whether to outline. Should you sketch the scaffolding first, or simply open the valve and let the memories pour out? If you browse writing forums or attend memoir workshops, you’ll see this question argued with the same vigor usually reserved for politics or barbecue recipes. Some insist you… Continue reading
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Fun-Sized
A memoir chapter should be fun-sized—not small, but complete. A self-contained tale that integrates all the elements of a story—plot, characterization, dialogue, setting—in one sitting. You should be able to lift one chapter out, read it during an oil change or on a quiet Sunday morning, and feel satisfied. Something began. Something changed. Something ended.… Continue reading