Are There Different Types of Memoirs: 8 Memoir Examples to Get Started

Summary

In this insightful video, the speaker explores the diverse forms of memoir writing, distinguishing it from autobiography and highlighting its creative nature. Various types of memoirs are discussed, including childhood, travel, lifestyle, and grief memoirs, alongside semi-autobiographical and how-to memoirs. With examples from notable authors, viewers are encouraged to reflect on their reading experiences and consider how their own stories fit within these categories. The video concludes with an invitation to subscribe for further guidance on crafting personal narratives.

Takeaways

• 😀 Memoir is a creative form of non-fiction, distinct from autobiography, allowing for diverse expressions.
• 😀 There are various types of memoirs, each with its own themes and focuses, such as childhood memoirs, travel memoirs, and grief memoirs.
• 😀 Childhood memoirs are popular and often reflect personal growth and family dynamics, as seen in books like *Under Magnolia* and *North of Normal*.
• 😀 Travel and lifestyle memoirs can be light-hearted and anecdotal, providing insights into the author's experiences in different cultures or locations.
• 😀 Semi-autobiographical memoirs use fictional elements while conveying true stories, allowing for creative storytelling.
• 😀 Influential memoirs focus on specific relationships and their impact on the author, exemplified by *Tuesdays With Morrie*.
• 😀 How-to memoirs combine personal narratives with instructional elements, guiding readers through life lessons or experiences.
• 😀 Grief and personal narrative memoirs explore themes of loss and healing, providing profound emotional insights into the author's journey.
• 😀 Trauma memoirs address significant life challenges and often delve into personal struggles, emphasizing resilience.
• 😀 Aspiring memoir writers should read widely and reflect on their experiences to identify which memoir type aligns with their stories.

Q & A

What is the primary difference between a memoir and an autobiography?

A memoir is a creative form of non-fiction that focuses on specific themes or periods of a person's life, whereas an autobiography is a chronological account of a person's entire life.

What are some popular types of memoirs mentioned in the video?

The video mentions several types of memoirs, including childhood memoirs, travel/lifestyle memoirs, semi-autobiographical memoirs, grief memoirs, and how-to memoirs.

Can a memoir consist of multiple themes?

Yes, a memoir can include multiple themes, but it should have one central theme that guides the narrative.

What is an example of a childhood memoir discussed in the video?

An example of a childhood memoir discussed is 'North of Normal' by Cea Sunrise Person, which details her family experiences and personal struggles.

What kind of memoir is 'A Year in Provence' by Peter Mayle?

'A Year in Provence' is a travel/lifestyle memoir that recounts the author’s experiences living in Provence, France.

How does the speaker suggest aspiring writers approach their memoir writing?

The speaker encourages aspiring writers to reflect on the types of memoirs they enjoy reading and to consider how their own stories align with those types and themes.

What is a how-to memoir, and can you provide an example?

A how-to memoir combines personal narrative with instructional content. An example given is 'Writing About Your Life' by William Zinsser, which offers guidance on writing memoirs.

What are some themes explored in grief memoirs?

Grief memoirs explore themes of loss, personal reflection, and the impact of losing loved ones, as exemplified by 'Once Upon A Farm' by Rory Feek and 'When God Says No' by the speaker.

What does the speaker say about writing style in memoirs?

The speaker emphasizes that writers should not be intimidated by their writing ability; they should focus on expressing their personal stories and find their unique voice.

What is the suggested homework for viewers interested in writing memoirs?

The homework is to list at least ten memoirs they've read, noting the types and what they liked about them, and then reflect on how their own stories fit within those themes.