Deciding what parts of ourselves to share in memoir can present unexpected challenges. In this class, we’ll use fiction writing exercises and as a tool to take on the most daunting aspects of writing about ourselves, be it trauma, embarrassing moments, relationships, or opening up to the public gaze. We’ll use guided prompts to gently work through potential blocks and use them to drive personal narrative––whether we choose to write about them explicitly or not. Suggestions for memoir-writing self-care and support networks will be discussed. This class will include writing prompts, short readings, and opportunities to share and discuss both in-class writing and sticky points in their ongoing memoir writing process. Students are encouraged to bring relevant passages from their memoir writing to this course, although it is not required.
