Structuring your Memoir

About this course

The course examines the characteristics of memoir and how personal experiences can be shaped into coherent stories. Participants will develop material from their own lives, consider scenes and wider themes, and explore approaches to researching a memoir. Teaching combines practical writing activities with the study of mentor texts, workshop feedback and class discussion. Critical skills are developed through responding to written work, with some related reading and homework between classes.

What you'll learn

• Shape scenes from personal experience into a coherent whole
• Identify and explore wider themes within a memoir
• Examine key features and demands of the memoir form
• Explore approaches to researching memoir material

Is this course right for you?

Listed as suitable for all levels, the course is intended for writers interested in exploring their lives through memoir. There are no formal entry requirements, although a reasonable degree of literacy is needed. Participation includes workshops, class discussion, homework and some reading outside class.

• No formal entry requirements are stated
• Requires a reasonable degree of literacy
• Includes regular homework and some additional reading

Before you go

• Bring a pen and paper.
• A small amount of homework is set each week.
• Some reading may be set outside class; suggested reading will be provided.