Memoirs take various forms—and serve various purposes. Shorter versions strive to capture a "single slice" life experience. Longer versions, usually shorter than a full autobiography, describe critical events, peak experiences, and major turning points.

The memoirist (often using many of the usual storytelling elements) describes the events and then directly or indirectly conveys their significance. The writer identifies themes and paints scenes, simultaneously telling the story and musing upon it—weaving in reflections, feelings, and observations.

Many memoirists choose to stay within traditional memoir forms. Others elect to combine forms or invent new forms. Here are a few of the common memoir types:

An autobiography strives to capture all the elements of a life—all the important facts and events. Many memoirists use autobiographies to fully reveal their true and private selves. Most beginners, however, usually avoid this form.

The personal memoir, intimate and emotional in tone, is usually shorter in length than a comprehensive autobiography—and different in form and purpose. This type tends to focus on pivotal moments, special relationships, and compelling themes.

A coming of age memoir focuses on the childhood years—on the coming to consciousness experience.

A memoir of place describes a specific setting and captures a special regional voice.

A relationship memoir explores the author's connection to an individual or a group.

The thematic memoir often describes a specific "calling,” an unusual line of work, or fresh approaches to a challenge.

The portrait memoir, unlike the personal memoir, paints a picture of another individual—someone other than the author.

The historical memoir is heavily influenced by journalistic accounts and other historical records. It tells the author’s story, while also documenting some social and cultural history.

The confession memoir, which goes back to Augustine, recounts one's sins and the mending of one's ways.

The spiritual quest meimor avoids the sinner-redeemed formula and focuses instead on the search for spiritual fulfillment and perfection.

The travel memoir describes a journey. It is especially effective when it avoids a simple "what I saw" formula—and focuses instead on the impressions, feelings, and reactions of the author.

The celebration memoir uses significant materials(text and images) to recognize and honor a loved one—and to show deep appreciation. It is often presented as a gift on a special occasion.

The tribute memoir honors the memory of a beloved family member, friend, or associate. It may include an extended life overview, and it usually contains various images (photographs, eulogies, letters of condolence).

An ethical will, sometimes called a legacy letter, conveys important thoughts and values. It frequently expresses hopes and wishes for family members and friends.

The list could go on. Some memoirists choose to write about difficult experiences and the ways in which they've dealt with adversity.

Some write about their experience within an American tradition—African-American, Latino-American, Asian-American, Jewish-American, Native American.

Others describe various "adventures"—war stories, near death encounters, thrilling struggles, failed romances.

The theme of the individual in conflict with society fuels a broad range of memoirs.

And a family history can constitute a form of autobiographic writing, especially when it focuses on the writer's search for self-identity.

The subjects and themes are seemingly limitless, and memoir writing is loaded with rewards. You are the hero or heroine of your own story. You are on intimate terms with the protagonist (you) and the main characters. They are waiting to be described. They are eager to jump into the story—your story.

Orlo J. Otteson
651-278-4824

otteson@aol.com