Explore the intricate dance of memoir writing, where past and present must coexist without condemnation—authenticity is key. Discover the pitfalls of casual prose that falsely seeks intimacy, often missing the mark. Learn the power of clarity over melodrama, transforming emotional tales into straightforward narratives. Additionally, find out what truly matters for aspiring authors: strong prose and the right literary connections, rather than complex marketing plans. Honesty in storytelling can forge powerful connections with readers.
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volunteer_activism ADVICE
Avoid Present Knowledge Bias
When writing memoir, avoid inserting present knowledge to condemn your past self or celebrate your present self.
Repossess your past self and "just be there."
question_answer ANECDOTE
We Are The Luckiest Example
Laura McCowan's "We Are the Luckiest" shows how disowning one's past self can alienate readers.
By condemning her past actions, she creates distance and hinders reader sympathy.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Trust the Reader
Trust your reader's intelligence; let your past actions speak for themselves.
Clear descriptions of your behavior will naturally reveal its flaws and nuances.
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Good Prose, The Art of Nonfiction, offers invaluable insights into the craft of nonfiction writing, particularly memoir. Kidder and Todd's collaborative approach provides a unique perspective, blending the writer's creative vision with the editor's discerning eye. The book delves into crucial aspects of narrative structure, voice, and style, guiding writers on how to effectively convey their experiences and perspectives. It emphasizes the importance of authenticity and objectivity, cautioning against melodramatic embellishments or overly casual prose. Ultimately, the book empowers writers to craft compelling and engaging nonfiction narratives.
We Are the Luckiest
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Laura McCowan
The tender bar
A Memoir
Juan José Estrella González
J. R. Moehringer
The Tender Bar is a sweeping memoir that follows J.R. Moehringer from his earliest childhood memories to his young adulthood. Growing up in Manhasset, New York, Moehringer lived with his single mother in his grandfather's house and found male role models among the patrons of the local bar, Publicans. The bar became a sanctuary and a place of education, where Moehringer learned valuable life lessons from men like his Uncle Charlie and other colorful characters. The memoir explores themes of masculinity, identity, and belonging, and is a classic American story of self-invention and escape, highlighting the fierce love between a single mother and her only son.
Hereafter
Hereafter
Amy Lynn
Here's what I learned from Good Prose: The Art of Nonfiction by Tracy Kidder and Richard Todd:
-When writing memoir, never insert present knowledge about your past if it means condemning your past self or celebrating your present self.
-Avoid casual prose such as, "you know," or "bet you thought," or "ummm, hello?" This style of writing seeks instant intimacy with the reader. It's a style what wants to SEEM fresh and authentic but has the opposite effect.
-Don't be melodramatic! I cannot write that "I was homeless" because I was crashing on my friend's couch in between living situations. Just write what happened. Just write the facts.
-If you want to publish a book you don't need a marketing plan or a book proposal. You need 20-30 pages of good prose and a trusted agent's counsel.
Memoir Snob 
