Memoir Writing Essentials

The video tutorial by Shaylen from Resi covers how to write a memoir, a form of creative nonfiction that strings real-life events into a narrative. It explains the differences between memoirs and autobiographies, explores various memoir genres, and provides a step-by-step guide to writing a memoir. Key steps include interviewing oneself, conducting research, deciding on a theme, and structuring the memoir. The tutorial also emphasizes the importance of engaging writing techniques, such as using detail and dialogue, and the value of beta readers for feedback.

What is a key difference between a memoir and an autobiography?

• An autobiography is written by someone else.

• A memoir is always fictional.

• A memoir focuses on specific themes or events.

• An autobiography is a collection of essays.

Which genre of memoir is meant to evoke feelings of the past?

• Sports

• Celebrity

• Nostalgia

• Inspirational

Why is it important to determine the purpose of your memoir?

• To decide the book's cover design.

• To streamline the events you want to portray.

• To choose the right publisher.

• To determine the book's price.

What is a book proposal used for in traditional publishing?

• To design the book's cover.

• To detail the book's target market.

• To set the book's price.

• To outline the book's plot.

What is the first step in writing a memoir?

• Designing a cover

• Choosing a publisher

• Interviewing yourself

• Setting a price

Why is research important in memoir writing?

• To ensure accuracy of events.

• To design the book cover.

• To find a publisher.

• To create fictional events.

What should you decide on before starting to write your memoir?

• The book's cover design

• The theme and message

• The publisher

• The book's price

Why is it important to identify moments of high emotion in your memoir?

• To fill the book with more events.

• To avoid emotional topics.

• To focus on the most impactful events.

• To make the book longer.

What is a benefit of using non-linear chronology in a memoir?

• It simplifies the writing process.

• It makes the book shorter.

• It avoids emotional topics.

• It helps keep the reader engaged.

How can you engage the reader from the start of your memoir?

• By avoiding dialogue.

• By starting with an exciting event.

• By using complex language.

• By starting with a dull event.